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Za'atar Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp.olive oil
- 4bone-in
skin-on chicken thighs
- ½ tsp.freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ¾ tsp.kosher salt
divided
- 1 tbsp.finely chopped garlic
from about 3 cloves
- 1 cjasmine rice
rinsed
- 4 tbsp.toasted slivered almonds
divided
- 1 ½ tbsp.za’atar
divided
- 2 tbsp.pomegranate arils
- chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
for garnish, optional
- lemon wedges
for serving
Directions
- 1
Sear chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F with rack in top third position. Heat oil in a large, high-sided, oven-safe skillet over medium. Sprinkle chicken with pepper and 1 teaspoon salt. Place chicken, skin side down, in hot oil. Cook, undisturbed, until skin is golden brown and easily releases from skillet, 8 to 10 minutes. Flip; cook until bottom is lightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate.
- 2
Cook garlic and rice: Add garlic to skillet; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in 1 3/4 cups water, rice, 2 tablespoons almonds, 1 tablespoon za’atar, and remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt. Nestle chicken, skin side up, into rice mixture. Bring to a boil over high. Cover skillet with aluminum foil or an oven-safe lid.
- 3
Bake chicken and rice: Bake until rice is just tender and a thermometer inserted in thickest part of chicken reads 165°F, about 20 minutes. Remove skillet from oven and uncover. Increase oven temperature to broil. Sprinkle chicken with remaining 1/2 tablespoon za’atar. Broil until chicken is crisp, about 4 minutes.
- 4
Garnish and serve: Fluff rice with a fork. Top with pomegranate arils and remaining 2 tablespoons almonds. Garnish with parsley (if using) and serve with lemon wedges.
Za'atar Chicken and Rice
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About this Recipe
Craving a deeply flavorful, yet wonderfully simple dinner that comes together in one pan? This Za'atar Chicken and Rice recipe is your answer, transforming weeknights into an aromatic culinary experience.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this dish a true winner is the seamless integration of flavors. Juicy, tender bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are generously seasoned with fragrant za’atar, an herb blend that truly brightens the entire dish. As the chicken roasts, its savory juices mingle with the jasmine rice, infusing every grain with richness and the distinctive, earthy notes of za'atar.
What to Expect
You'll be greeted by succulent chicken, boasting perfectly crisp skin and incredibly tender meat underneath, all thanks to bone-in thighs. Nestled alongside is fluffy, aromatic jasmine rice, subtly perfumed with za'atar. The dish is beautifully crowned with a delightful crunch from toasted slivered almonds and a vibrant, tangy burst from fresh pomegranate arils. With its balanced flavors and textures, this meal feels both comforting and elegantly vibrant, sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Customization & Variations
While the chicken thighs are a star, feel free to adjust the garnishes to your liking. Increase the amount of toasted slivered almonds for extra crunch, or add a more generous sprinkle of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley for a burst of herbaceous freshness. A squeeze of fresh lemon wedges at serving time is essential to brighten the rich flavors, so don't be shy.
Serving & Context
This one-pan Za'atar Chicken and Rice is ideal for a comforting family dinner or a casual gathering. Serve it warm straight from the pan, with plenty of lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over each serving.