Za’atar Chicken and Rice Pilaf • Tasty

chicken thighs

🥗Healthier: skinless chicken breasts

💰Cheaper: chicken drumsticks

Skinless breasts reduce fat while drumsticks are often less expensive.

za'atar spice blend

🥗Healthier: homemade spice mix

💰Cheaper: oregano and thyme

Homemade mix can be lower in sodium.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sliced almonds

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Almonds and sunflower seeds provide crunch at a lower cost.

long-grain rice

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: short-grain rice

Quinoa adds protein while short-grain rice is often less expensive.

Marinate chicken thighs with za'atar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Sauté chopped onion and garlic until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted.

Pour in chicken broth and water, then add cinnamon, bay leaves, and carrots.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, cooking for 15 minutes.

In a baking dish, arrange marinated chicken thighs on top of the rice.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

Remove foil and sprinkle raisins and pine nuts on top.

Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to toast the nuts.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens