A vibrant, spicy chicken dish brings a burst of Middle Eastern flavor to your table with the zesty and herb-packed zhug sauce. It's an easy way to add a delicious kick to your weeknight dinners that everyone will love.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time1 hr 5 min
Difficulty
Hard
Tips From The Kitchen
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully develop.
Use fresh herbs in the zhug for the best taste and aroma.
Cook the chicken over medium heat to ensure it stays juicy and doesn’t dry out.
Ingredients
0/8
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This dish bursts with bold flavors thanks to the spicy and herbaceous zhug sauce. It’s a simple way to add a Middle Eastern twist to your usual chicken, making each bite exciting and vibrant.
Step 1
Rub about a tablespoon and a half of zhug sauce over each piece of chicken. Pop them in the fridge to marinate for at least an hour. When you're ready to cook, take the chicken out about 30 minutes beforehand so it can come up to room temperature.
Step 2
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the artichokes. Peel away the tough outer leaves until you get to the softer core leaves and hearts. Cut the artichokes into quarters and toss them in a bowl filled with water and a splash of lemon juice. Give them a good mix and set them aside to keep fresh.
Step 3
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken pieces in a deep baking dish. Drain the artichokes and nestle them around the chicken, pressing them down a bit so they stay moist while cooking. Scatter some olives and sun-dried tomatoes on top for extra flavor.
Step 4
Bake everything uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once done, let it rest a few minutes before serving.
383
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
Serving Ideas To Try
Serve with warm pita bread or alongside fluffy couscous to soak up the sauce. A fresh salad or roasted vegetables also pair nicely to balance the spicy heat.
How To Store This Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken, and add a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts, but bone-in and skin-on pieces work best for flavor and moisture.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight will enhance the flavor even more.
What if I don’t have zhug sauce?
You can substitute with a spicy cilantro-based sauce or a mix of chili, garlic, and herbs.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear or the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare the artichokes in advance?
Yes, you can prep and soak them in lemon water a few hours ahead to keep them fresh.
Is it necessary to bring the chicken to room temperature before cooking?
Yes, letting it sit for 30 minutes helps the chicken cook evenly.
Can I use canned artichokes instead of fresh?
Fresh artichokes are preferred for texture, but canned can be used; add them later to avoid overcooking.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
This flavorful dish combines the rich, salty crunch of pancetta with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a comforting bowl of rice that’s pe...