Za'atar Roasted Chicken with Sumac Yogurt Sauce (Dajaj Bil Za'atar)

Dajaj Bil Za'atar is a traditional Qatari dish featuring succulent roasted chicken seasoned with za'atar, a flavorful Middle Eastern spice blend. The dish is served with a tangy sumac yogurt sauce, creating a delicious and aromatic flavor profile.

Gluten Free Dairy Free If Using Dairy Free Yogurt For The Sauce Main Course Qatari Qatari Cuisine Roasted Chicken Zaatar Seasoning Sumac Yogurt Sauce
Za'atar Roasted Chicken with Sumac Yogurt Sauce (Dajaj Bil Za'atar)

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken, about 3-4 lbs
  • 3 tbsp za'atar seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tbsp sumac
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix the za'atar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a paste.
  3. Rub the za'atar paste all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
  4. Place the chicken on a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. While the chicken is roasting, prepare the sumac yogurt sauce by mixing the yogurt, sumac, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
  7. Serve the za'atar roasted chicken with the sumac yogurt sauce on the side.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
5g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Roasting pan Basting brush Small mixing bowl

Tools

Oven Knife Cutting board

Serving suggestions

Serve the Dajaj Bil Za'atar with a side of rice pilaf and a fresh salad.

Tips & tricks

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with the za'atar paste for a few hours or overnight before roasting.

Cost

$15