These Za’atar Chicken Wings bring the bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine straight to your plate. The crispy, oven-baked wings are coated in a fragrant spice blend of thyme, sumac, sesame, and cumin, creating an irresistible balance of savory, citrusy, and slightly spicy notes. A touch of honey and lemon juice adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang to complement the deep, aromatic seasoning.
Perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or even a main dish, these wings are a flavorful twist on the classic. Serve them with a cooling yogurt dip, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an eye-catching and mouthwatering presentation. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat, these wings will not disappoint!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional sumac or za’atar for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- In a mortar and pestle or spice grinder, grind the thyme until fine. Add marjoram and grind together. Transfer to a small bowl.
- Stir in sumac, sesame seeds, cumin, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
- In a large bowl, season the chicken wings with salt and garlic powder. Mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together egg white, honey, and lemon juice until foamy. Pour over the wings and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the prepared za’atar spice blend over the wings, ensuring even coverage. Arrange wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the wings over and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Let the wings rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with parsley, and garnish with additional sumac or za’atar if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Za’atar Chicken Wings
Za’atar Chicken Wings are a delicious fusion of crispy, oven-baked wings and the aromatic, earthy flavors of Middle Eastern spices. This dish takes classic chicken wings to the next level by coating them in a homemade za’atar seasoning blend, which includes thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and cumin. The result is a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and slightly nutty flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Whether you’re looking for an easy appetizer, a flavorful game-day snack, or a unique twist on a classic chicken dish, these za’atar-spiced wings are an excellent choice. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of za’atar, why this recipe works so well, serving suggestions, and tips to get the crispiest wings every time.
What is Za’atar?
Za’atar is a popular Middle Eastern spice blend that has been used for centuries in cooking. It typically consists of dried thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and sometimes marjoram or oregano. The combination creates a unique flavor profile—herbaceous from the thyme, tangy from the sumac, nutty from the sesame seeds, and warm from the cumin.
Za’atar is an incredibly versatile seasoning that is often sprinkled over flatbreads, mixed into olive oil as a dip, or used to season roasted meats and vegetables. The bright, citrusy notes of sumac make it especially good for balancing out rich or fatty dishes, which is why it pairs so well with crispy chicken wings.
Why This Recipe Works
There are a few key elements that make this Za’atar Chicken Wings recipe stand out:
- Flavor Explosion – The za’atar spice blend brings layers of flavor, combining earthiness, tanginess, and warmth into every bite.
- Perfect Crispiness – The wings are oven-baked instead of fried, yet they turn out crispy thanks to the egg white coating, which helps the seasoning adhere and creates a crisp outer texture.
- Balanced Seasoning – A touch of honey and lemon juice enhances the za’atar’s natural flavors, adding a mild sweetness and acidity to complement the spices.
- Easy to Make – Unlike deep-fried wings, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it great for home cooks looking for a low-maintenance but highly rewarding dish.
Best Ways to Serve Za’atar Chicken Wings
Za’atar Chicken Wings are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy them:
- With a Yogurt-Based Dipping Sauce – A simple mix of Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt makes the perfect cooling dip to contrast the warm, spiced wings.
- Alongside Flatbreads and Hummus – Serve with pita bread, hummus, and a drizzle of olive oil for a full Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
- With a Fresh Herb Salad – A side of chopped parsley, mint, and cucumber salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil adds freshness to the dish.
- As a Game-Day Snack – These wings are a great alternative to traditional buffalo wings and will be a hit at any gathering or sports party.
Tips for Making the Crispiest Za’atar Wings
One of the most important factors in making perfect chicken wings is achieving the right level of crispiness. Here are a few pro tips to ensure your wings come out with a delicious crunch:
- Dry the Wings Before Seasoning – Pat the wings dry with paper towels before adding the seasoning. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing them to crisp up better in the oven.
- Use Baking Powder (Optional) – A light dusting of baking powder on the wings before baking can help them get even crispier, as it raises the skin’s pH and promotes browning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Tray – Arrange the wings in a single layer with space between them. Overcrowding can cause steam buildup, preventing them from crisping up properly.
- Bake at a High Temperature – Cooking the wings at 400°F (200°C) ensures the fat renders properly, leading to a crispy texture.
- Flip the Wings Midway Through Cooking – Turning the wings halfway through baking helps them cook evenly and develop a uniform golden-brown crust.
Health Benefits of Za’atar and Baked Wings
While chicken wings are often considered indulgent, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried wings. Baking the wings instead of frying them significantly reduces the amount of added fat and calories. Additionally, za’atar itself has several health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants – Sumac, a key ingredient in za’atar, is high in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and protect the body from free radicals.
- Supports Digestion – Thyme and marjoram have been known to aid digestion and promote gut health.
- Boosts Brain Function – Some studies suggest that za’atar may enhance cognitive function and memory, making it a beneficial addition to your diet.
- Good Source of Healthy Fats – Sesame seeds in the za’atar blend provide beneficial fats that support heart health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these wings in an air fryer?
Yes! To air-fry these wings, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method results in an extra crispy texture without using oil.
Can I use store-bought za’atar?
Absolutely! While making your own za’atar blend allows for customization, store-bought versions work well too. Just make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure it contains sumac, sesame seeds, and thyme for an authentic taste.
How can I store leftover wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I prepare these wings ahead of time?
Yes! You can season and marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to cook, simply follow the baking instructions.
Conclusion
Za’atar Chicken Wings are a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavors and enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional fried wings. The unique blend of Middle Eastern spices brings an irresistible depth of flavor, while the baking method ensures a crispy texture with less oil.
Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish, these wings are sure to impress. Paired with a tangy yogurt dip or fresh herbs, they make for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
Try these wings for your next gathering or weeknight dinner, and experience the magic of za’atar seasoning in a whole new way!