Za’atar Chicken

This slow-cooker za’atar chicken recipe, shared by Taste of Home reader Esther Erani of Brooklyn, New York, relies on simple pantry staples to create a warm, aromatic spiced dish. Chicken thighs are coated with cumin, turmeric, dried oregano and za’atar—an herby, tangy blend of sesame, sumac and dried herbs that’s popular in Middle Eastern cooking—then are slow-cooked until they’re juicy and tender.

Green olives, dried apricots and prunes soften in the juices as they cook, creating a jammy, sweet-and-savory sauce that perfectly balances the spice. Serve za’atar chicken over rice or couscous for a comforting Middle Eastern–inspired meal the whole family will love.

Slow-Cooker Za’atar Chicken Ingredients

• Za’atar: This seasoning blend is the star of this dish, flavoring the chicken with an aromatic mix of herbs, sesame and tangy sumac. Store-bought blends can vary in flavor, with some leaning more toward lemony or sesame-forward notes. For custom balance, try making your own za’atar at home.
• Olive oil: The oil adds richness and helps the seasonings coat the chicken evenly. For the best flavor, use a good-quality olive oil.
• Pantry seasonings: A mix of dried oregano, salt, ground cumin and ground turmeric adds warm, earthy flavor that complements the za’atar.
• Chicken thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs stay juicy and tender in the slow-cooker and deliver a richer flavor than boneless cuts do. You can use boneless skinless thighs if you prefer a leaner or quicker-cooking option.
• Pimento-stuffed olives: Green olives stuffed with pimentos are briny and tangy, balancing the sweet fruit and adding to the dish’s Middle Eastern feel. Choose small olives or slice large ones into smaller pieces for even bites.
• Dried fruit: A mix of dried apricots and prunes adds natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory, spiced chicken and olives. The fruit takes on a jammy, sauce-like consistency as it cooks, making it easy to spoon over the chicken.

Directions

Step 1: Season the chicken

In a large bowl, combine the za’atar seasoning, dried oregano, salt, ground cumin, ground turmeric and olive oil. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat them evenly.

Editor’s Tip: For a deeper flavor, cover and refrigerate the seasoned chicken for a few hours or overnight before cooking it.

Step 2: Layer the ingredients in a slow-cooker

Arrange the olives, apricots and plums in the bottom of a 4- or 5-quart slow-cooker. Add 1/4 cup of water, then place the seasoned chicken on top.

Step 3: Slow-cook the chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on low for five to six hours, or until it’s tender and cooked through. If desired, serve the za’atar chicken with hot, cooked rice.

Editor’s Tip: To check doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Recipe Variations

• Swap the dried fruit: Try raisins or pitted dates in place of the prunes or apricots for a slightly different sweetness. You can also add more apricots and prunes.
• Brown the chicken: If you have a few extra minutes, sear the chicken with a drizzle of oil in a pan on the stovetop until it’s lightly golden brown, then add it to the slow-cooker. Those browned bits will add more flavor.
• Add garlic and lemon: For extra depth and brightness, toss in a few crushed garlic cloves and lemon slices. The citrus adds a touch of acidity, lifting the other flavors.
• Finish it with fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley just before serving it for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Skip the slow-cooker: Assemble the dish in a Dutch oven and cook it low and slow on the stovetop, or turn it into a faster sheet pan meal. See the Tips section below for details.

How to Store Slow-Cooker Za’atar Chicken

Let any leftover slow-cooker za’atar chicken cool completely. Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to four days.

Can you freeze slow-cooker za’atar chicken?

Yes, this slow-cooker za’atar chicken dish freezes well. Let the chicken and sauce cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight, freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze za’atar chicken for up to three months, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it.

How do you reheat slow-cooker za’atar chicken?

Reheat slow-cooker za’atar chicken in a skillet over low heat on the stovetop, or in the microwave until it’s warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen and rehydrate the fruit.

Slow-Cooker Za’atar Chicken Tips

Can you make za’atar chicken without a slow-cooker?

Yes! This za’atar chicken recipe can also be made on the stovetop or in the oven. For a stovetop version, layer the fruit, olives and spiced chicken thighs in a Dutch oven. You may need to use more liquid to prevent it from drying out. Cook it over medium-low heat until the chicken is tender and cooked through, about two to three hours.

For an even faster option, try the sheet-pan method. Arrange the seasoned chicken, olives and dried fruit on a large rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and bake them at 400° until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°, about 45 minutes.

Where do you find za’atar seasoning?

You can find za’atar seasoning in the spice aisle of most grocery stores, alongside other global or Middle Eastern spices. If you can’t find it locally, it’s easy to make at home.

To make your own za’atar spice mix, combine 1 tablespoon each of dried oregano, ground sumac and sesame seeds with 1 teaspoon each of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

What else can you do with za’atar?

Za’atar is a versatile seasoning blend that works in plenty of everyday recipes. Use it to season potatoes or vegetables before roasting them; mix it with olive oil to create a quick dipping sauce for bread; add it to melted butter and toss it with popcorn; or sprinkle it over hummus, eggs or grilled meats for an easy flavor boost.

What can you serve with slow-cooker za’atar chicken?

We recommend serving this slow-cooker za’atar chicken over hot, fluffy rice or couscous to soak up the flavorful juices. Pair it with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or pita bread for a well-balanced meal.