chicken

Crispy Za'atar Chicken Thighs with Lemon Yogurt

Bone-in chicken thighs rubbed with fragrant za'atar and crisped to perfection, served alongside a bright lemon-herb yogurt sauce. Ready in under an hour.

By BellyFruit KitchenMay 3, 2025
Crispy Za'atar Chicken Thighs with Lemon Yogurt
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Servings
4

Ingredients

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 3 tbsp za'atar spice blend
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, grated
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Fresh parsley and lemon wedges, to serve

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This is the key to achieving crispy skin.

  2. 2

    Combine za'atar, kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin where possible. Let rest at room temperature for 20 minutes.

  3. 3

    Preheat oven to 425°F with a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe skillet inside to preheat.

  4. 4

    Carefully add olive oil to the hot skillet, then place chicken skin-side down. It should sizzle immediately.

  5. 5

    Sear on the stovetop over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes until skin is deeply golden and releases easily.

  6. 6

    Flip the chicken and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reads 165°F.

  7. 7

    While chicken roasts, stir together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, mint, grated garlic, and salt.

  8. 8

    Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Plate over the lemon yogurt with a side of flatbread or roasted vegetables.

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