Za'atar Grilled Chicken with Roasted Vegetables and Couscous
Tips for Experienced Cooks
To elevate this dish, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the za'atar seasoning, olive oil, lemon juice, and some garlic overnight. This will infuse them with more flavor and result in a juicier, more tender chicken. For the couscous, try adding sautéed onions, toasted pine nuts, or golden raisins to incorporate texture and sweetness. When roasting your vegetables, ensure they are spread out in a single layer, possibly using two baking sheets, to avoid steaming and to achieve a caramelized finish.
Step 1: Prepare the chicken and vegetables
Pat the chicken thighs dry and season with the za'atar seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken on a baking sheet.
In a large bowl, toss the chopped carrots, zucchini, and onion with the olive oil. Spread the vegetables on a separate baking sheet.
- 4 pounds chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup za'atar seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1 pound zucchini (chopped)
- 1 red onion (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step 2: Roast the chicken and vegetables
Place the baking sheets in the oven and roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Prepare the couscous
While the chicken and vegetables are roasting, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand for 5-7 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
- 2 cups couscous
Step 4: Finish the dish
Transfer the roasted chicken and vegetables to a serving platter. Drizzle the yogurt over the chicken and sprinkle with lemon juice.
Serve the couscous alongside the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- Juice of 1 lemon
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 4 pounds chicken thighs
Pantry Items
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 cups couscous
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 2 pounds carrots
- 1 pound zucchini
- 1 red onion
- 1 lemon
Seasonings & Spices
- 1/4 cup za'atar seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
