Zaatar Spiced Chicken with Lemon
At Wormuth Farm, we take pride in offering pasture-raised chicken that not only supports sustainable farming practices but also delivers exceptional flavor. Today, we're excited to share a delicious recipe: Zaatar Spiced Chicken with Lemon. This dish is perfect for any occasion, combining the unique flavors of zaatar spice with our high-quality chicken.
What is Zaatar Spice?
Zaatar is a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend that has been used for centuries to add flavor to a variety of dishes. The blend typically includes dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. Some variations may also include oregano, marjoram, or other herbs. Zaatar has a tangy, herbal flavor with nutty undertones from the sesame seeds, and it pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Recipe: Zaatar Spiced Chicken with Lemon
Ingredients:
- 4 split chicken breasts (bone-in, skin on)
- 2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend
- 2 lemons (one for juice, one sliced)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets crispy.
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Season the Chicken: Drizzle the chicken with olive oil. Rub the zaatar spice blend over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add Lemon: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken. Place lemon slices under the skin of the chicken and around the baking dish for extra flavor.
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Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
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Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Benefits of Using Wormuth Farm's Pasture-Raised Chicken
Our chickens are raised on the lush pastures of Rutan Hill, benefiting from the rich, mineral-laden volcanic soil. This unique environment ensures our chickens are healthy and flavorful, making them perfect for any recipe, especially one that highlights their natural taste with a spice blend like zaatar.
Why Zaatar?
Zaatar not only adds a burst of flavor but also brings several health benefits:
- Antioxidant Properties: Sumac, a key ingredient in zaatar, is known for its high antioxidant content.
- Digestive Health: Thyme has been traditionally used to aid digestion.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and are a good source of healthy fats.
This Zaatar Spiced Chicken with Lemon recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the superior flavor and quality of Wormuth Farm's pasture-raised chicken. The combination of tangy zaatar and fresh lemon makes for a delicious meal that is sure to impress.
Stay tuned for more recipes and tips on making the most of our farm-fresh products. If you try this recipe, let us know how it turns out in the comments or tag us on social media!
Recipe idea and photo credit goes to K.G.