Za’atar is a Middle Eastern herb-spice blend, typically containing thyme, sumac and sesame seeds. It may also include oregano, marjoram, savory and additional spices. Za’atar pairs wonderfully with chicken, and the addition of lemon juice and zest to the mix enhances the lemony notes of the sumac.
After marinating, these chicken legs are absolutely delicious charred and grilled. If you don’t currently own a grill or are looking for an upgrade, check out angrybbq.com for some great recommendations!
Lemon Za’atar Grilled Chicken Legs
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
Description
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern herb-spice blend, typically containing thyme, sumac and sesame seeds. Za’atar pairs wonderfully with the chicken legs, and the addition of lemon juice and zest to the mix enhances the lemony notes of the sumac.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks (legs) (about 2lbs)
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, plus more to grease grill
- 1 tbsp za’atar spice blend
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, lightly crushed
- Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Combine oil through garlic in a large bowl, coat chicken in mixture, and marinate at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours in the fridge.
- Prep for grilling: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for 30-60 minutes. Preheat the grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade, season with additional salt and pepper, and discard garlic.
- Grill & serve: Grill for a total of 25-30 minutes, turning every 4-6 minutes, or until juices run clear and the internal temperature registers 165°F. If the chicken begins to brown too rapidly before it’s cooked through, lower the heat for the remainder of the cooking time. Allow to rest about 5 minutes. Enjoy.
Notes
- Total time does not reflect time needed to marinate the chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: grill
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 legs
- Calories: 526
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 274mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 44g
Keywords: zaatar, chicken, chicken legs, grilled
Your recipe is amazing! I always get tons of compliments when I make it. My mouth is watering just looking at the pictures. LOL 😀
That makes me so so happy to hear! Glad you enjoyed the chicken legs 🙂
Zaatar is my shortcut for pretty much anything! Instant flavour hit! 🙂
Agreed!
This looks amazing! I can’t wait to make this – pinned for our weekend dinner.
Thanks so much! Let me know how they turn out 🙂