Middle Eastern Chicken

Infused with the bold, aromatic spices of the Middle East, this Middle Eastern Chicken recipe is a flavorful journey for your taste buds. Juicy, bone-in chicken thighs are marinated in a creamy blend of Greek yogurt, zesty lemon juice, and a medley of spices including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon, creating tender, richly seasoned meat with a golden, crisp finish. The optional addition of tangy sumac deepens the vibrant flavor profile. Quick to prepare in just 15 minutes, this dish is oven-roasted to perfection in 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a festive dinner. Topped with fresh parsley and beautifully paired with warm pita bread or fluffy rice, this recipe brings a deliciously authentic Middle Eastern flair to your table. Perfect for those looking to explore international cuisine, this easy-to-make chicken dish will quickly become a family favorite!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 6 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon sumac (optional)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 4 servings pita bread or rice (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, sumac (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 2

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best results.

Step 3

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in an oven-safe skillet.

Step 5

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.

Step 6

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Step 7

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot with pita bread or rice on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1515.2 grams (1515.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3180

Total Fat 193.30g	248%
Saturated Fat 50.20g	251%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.20g
Cholesterol 754mg	251%
Sodium 6846mg	298%
Total Carbohydrate 158.90g	58%
Dietary Fiber 11.40g	41%
Total Sugars 14.40g
Protein 211.50g	423%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 591mg	45%
Iron 22mg	121%
Potassium 2620mg	56%

*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: 54.0%

Protein: 26.3%

Carbs: 19.7%