Get ready to indulge in the enticing aromas, robust flavours, and authentic charm of our Middle Eastern Restaurant-Style Chicken, a feast fit for a king and an invitation to savour the magic of the Middle East on your plate.
Join us as we unlock the secrets of Middle Eastern cooking, where ancient flavours and modern creativity intertwine to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Imagine succulent, juicy pieces of chicken infused with a mesmerizing blend of aromatic spices and a touch of tangy yogurt, resulting in a flavour symphony that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of the Middle East.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering of friends, seeking to impress your loved ones, or simply indulging in a flavourful feast for yourself, my Middle Eastern Restaurant Style Chicken promises to transport you to the exotic flavours of the region.
So, gather around the table, embrace the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality, and embark on a culinary voyage that will forever leave an impression on your palate.
Crave-Worthy Chicken Bliss
The Origin of Oven-baked Chicken
The exact origin of oven-baked chicken as a specific dish or technique is challenging to pinpoint since baking chicken has been a part of various culinary traditions around the world. However, the method of oven-baked chicken became more prevalent and widespread with the advancements in home cooking appliances during the 20th century.
Oven-baked chicken offers several advantages, including even heat distribution, controlled cooking temperature, and the ability to retain moisture within the meat. It allows for the chicken to cook thoroughly and develop a crispy outer crust while keeping the interior tender and succulent.
Over time, different cuisines and cultures have developed their unique recipes and variations for oven-baked chicken, incorporating diverse spices, seasonings, and marinades to create a wide range of flavors and styles.
Today, oven-baked chicken is a popular and versatile cooking method used in various culinary traditions worldwide, showcasing different flavours, techniques, and cultural influences. Whether it’s roasted whole chicken, seasoned chicken pieces, or marinated chicken dishes, oven baking continues to be a beloved method for preparing delicious and flavourful chicken meals.
Embrace Flavorful Harmony
Tips and Tricks for Middle Eastern Restaurant-Style Chicken
For the most flavourful results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the spices and flavours to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavourful dish.
While the recipe mentions using whole chicken or leg quarters, you can also use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. The key is to have chicken pieces with skin and bones intact, as they contribute to the rich flavour and juicy texture.
After baking the chicken, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender chicken.
If you’re using a whole chicken, I recommend you spatchcock it first; remove the back/neck bone to let the chicken lay flat onto your baking tray.
Everyday Cravings Be Like!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You can certainly use boneless chicken if preferred. Keep in mind that bone-in chicken tends to have more flavour and remains juicier during cooking.
It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 2 to 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Marinating allows the flavours to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavourful and tender chicken.
Yes, grilling is a popular cooking method for Middle Eastern chicken. It adds a smoky flavour and beautiful char marks to the chicken. You can cook it on a charcoal or gas grill, or even on a stovetop grill pan.
Absolutely! The marinade can work well with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. Toss the vegetables in the marinade and grill or roast them until tender.
While lemon zest can add a citrusy flavour, it’s best to use lemon juice in the marinade for the desired tanginess. Lemon juice also helps to tenderize the meat.
Savor the Delights of This Tasty Dish
Ingredients For Middle Eastern Restaurant-Style Chicken
For the Chicken
Whole chicken
Garlic cloves
Plain whole milk yogurt
Olive oil
Tomato paste
7 spices
Coriander powder
Salt
Black pepper
Onion powder
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Turmeric
Lemon juice
For the Sumac and Onion Salad:
Yellow onion
Sumac
Parsley
Salt
Olive Oil
Steps To Prep Middle Eastern Restaurant-Style Chicken
First, mix the spices with the yogurt, tomato paste and oil.
Now, rub them all over the chicken making sure to get it under the skin.
Once done, lay flat the chicken and add it to a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
After that, bake covered at 425 Fahrenheit for 1 hour.
Finally, uncover to crisp up under the broiler for a few minutes (watch closely, it might burn.)
Sumac and Onion Salad
In the next step, you are going to combine the onion, parsley, sumac, salt and olive oil.
Afterwards, rub together well with your hand to soften the onion.
Serve with sumac onion salad, french fries and garlic sauce.
Irresistibly Flavorful Oven-Baked Chicken
Other Delicious Recipes To Try:
Chicken Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
Butter Chicken Paratha Quesadilla
Best Marinade For Baked Chicken
Middle Eastern Spiced Baked Chicken
Authentic Tandoori Chicken Recipe
Bukhari Rice and Chicken (Ruz Bukhari)
If you’ve tried this recipe, don’t forget to rate it and leave a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience. You can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube
Middle Eastern Restaurant-Style Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 ] whole chicken about 3 pounds, (or use 4 leg quarters)
- 4 garlic cloves finely minced
- 3 tablespoons plain whole milk yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon 7 spices
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Salad
- 1 large yellow onion cut into thin wings
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 2 tablespoons parsley finely chopped
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
For the Chicken
- Mix the spices with the yogurt, tomato paste and oil.
- Rub them all over the chicken making sure to get it under the skin.
- Bake covered at 425 Fahrenheit for 1 hour.
- Then, uncover to crisp up under the broiler for a few minutes (watch closely, it might burn)
For the Salad
- Combine the onion, parsley, sumac, salt and olive oil.
- Rub together well with your hand to soften the onion.
Notes
- To refrigerate: If you have leftovers or want to store the cooked chicken, allow it to cool down to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Place the chicken in the refrigerator and consume it within 3 to 4 days.
- To freeze: You can also freeze the cooked chicken for longer storage. Once it has cooled down completely, place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- To reheat: To reheat the refrigerated or frozen chicken, you can use methods like microwaving, baking, or pan-searing. When using the microwave, cover the chicken to prevent dryness. For baking or pan-searing, use moderate heat and monitor the chicken to avoid overcooking.
- Sumac and Onion Salad: If you have any leftover Sumac and Onion Salad, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume it within 1 to 2 days for the best taste and texture.
My family really love it! Even my baby!! Thanks fatimah. May Allah reward your kind
Much Love ❤️
Salaams, just wanted to ask is the chicken used with skin? and if the skin is on how to we put the marinade under the skin as you have written? many thanks
salam! yes with skin.I just lift the skin off the meat a little bit, you can use the back of a spoon to help you.
This chicken is my favorite recipe from this blog. It is full of flavor and very easy to make.
Another great recipe! Thank you.
This recipeee is a 10 for me it was easy to prep ..and tasted delicious..
Loved it ..
Love this recipe! So easy to make
I tried this recipe and it turned out so good. Full of flavour and very unique taste yet very easy to make.JazakALLAH for sharing your recipes with us.
So delicious and easy to make! This is my go-to easy dinner recipe that looks like I did a lot of work to make it 😀