Za Atar Chicken with Orange Israeli Couscous

Infused with bold Middle Eastern flavors, this Za'atar Chicken with Orange Israeli Couscous is a fast and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress. Tender, golden-brown chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned with the aromatic za'atar spice blend and seared to perfection before finishing in the oven. Paired with a vibrant Israeli couscous that’s toasted and simmered in chicken broth, this dish gets a citrusy twist from fresh orange zest and juice, while parsley and optional pomegranate seeds add a punch of freshness and color. Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe offers an elegant yet easy way to elevate your weeknight dinners or wow guests with a unique and wholesome dish.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons za'atar spice blend
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 cup Israeli couscous
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon orange zest
• 0.25 cup orange juice
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.5 cup red onion
• 0.25 cup parsley
• 0.25 cup pomegranate seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the za'atar spice blend, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 4

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5

While the chicken is baking, prepare the couscous. Dice the red onion and mince the garlic.

Step 6

In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 7

Add the Israeli couscous to the saucepan and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Step 8

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the couscous is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 9

Once the couscous is cooked, stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and freshly chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 10

To serve, spoon the orange Israeli couscous onto a plate. Top with a chicken thigh and garnish with pomegranate seeds for an optional pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1207.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2238.4

Total Fat 106.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 20.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g
Cholesterol 500mg	0%
Sodium 3598.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 181.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.3g	0%
Total Sugars 15.4g
Protein 138.9g	0%

Vitamin D 28IU	0%
Calcium 255.8mg	0%
Iron 13.1mg	0%
Potassium 2175.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.7%

Protein: 24.8%

Carbs: 32.4%