I hate meal prep, so I do this instead.

I hate meal prep, so I do this instead. is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 2. 923 calories per serving. Recipe by Ethan Chlebowski on YouTube.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 20 min

Cost: $5.21 total, $2.61 per serving

Ingredients

  • 450 grams Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless, trimmed)
  • 5 grams Salt (fine sea salt)
  • 20 grams Za'atar (Middle Eastern herb and spice blend; can use any favorite spice mix)
  • 20 grams Olive Oil (extra virgin, for coating and searing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken

    Pat the chicken breast dry with paper towels and place on a cutting board.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Mix Seasoning and Oil

    In a mixing bowl combine salt, za'atar, and olive oil. Add the chicken and toss until evenly coated.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Preheat Skillet

    Place the skillet over high heat and let it get very hot (you should see a thin shimmer of oil).

    Time: PT2M

  4. Sear Chicken

    Add the coated chicken to the hot skillet. Sear for 3‑4 minutes on the first side, then flip and sear another 3‑4 minutes until the exterior is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: High

  5. Rest and Slice

    Transfer the chicken to a plate, let it rest for 2 minutes, then slice into strips or bite‑size pieces.

    Time: PT2M

  6. Store for Meal Prep

    Place the sliced chicken into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

    Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
923
Protein
140 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fat
25 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free (if using gluten‑free za'atar), High-Protein, Low-Carb, Dairy-Free

Allergens: Olive Oil

Last updated: April 11, 2026

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I hate meal prep, so I do this instead.

Recipe by Ethan Chlebowski

A quick and flavorful Mediterranean‑style chicken breast seasoned with za'atar and olive oil, seared on high heat and perfect for weekly meal prep. Use the sliced chicken in wraps, rice bowls, salads, or any dish that needs a protein boost.

EasyMediterraneanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
20m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.21
Total cost
$2.61
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Coating the chicken evenly with za'atar and oil
  • Preheating the skillet until very hot
  • Searing without moving the chicken too early
  • Ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet with care to avoid burns
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (74°C)
  • Do not leave raw chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of za'atar chicken in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

Za'atar is a traditional herb blend from the Levant, used for centuries to flavor breads, meats, and vegetables. Combining it with chicken creates a simple yet aromatic dish that reflects the region’s love for bold, herbaceous flavors.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of za'atar chicken in Middle Eastern cooking?

A

In Lebanon and Syria, za'atar chicken is often baked with sumac and lemon, while in Israel it may be grilled and served with tahini sauce. Some variations add yogurt or pomegranate molasses for a tangy twist.

cultural
Q

How is za'atar chicken traditionally served in Mediterranean households?

A

It is typically served hot, sliced, and paired with flatbread, fresh salads, hummus, or rice. In many homes it appears as part of a mezze spread alongside olives, pickles, and feta cheese.

cultural
Q

During which celebrations or occasions is za'atar chicken commonly prepared in Levantine culture?

A

Za'atar chicken is a popular everyday protein but also appears at family gatherings, Ramadan iftars, and casual weekend meals where quick, flavorful dishes are valued.

cultural
Q

What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with za'atar chicken?

A

Grilled vegetables, tabbouleh, couscous, fattoush salad, and labneh make excellent companions, creating a balanced plate of protein, grains, and fresh herbs.

cultural
Q

What makes za'atar chicken special compared to other seasoned chicken recipes in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

The inclusion of za'atar provides a unique combination of thyme, oregano, sesame, and sumac, giving the chicken a nutty, tangy, and herbaceous flavor that stands out from simple salt‑pepper or lemon‑herb preparations.

cultural
Q

How has the preparation of za'atar chicken evolved in modern home cooking?

A

While traditional methods often involve slow roasting, modern cooks favor quick high‑heat searing to save time, especially for meal‑prep purposes, while still retaining the distinctive za'atar flavor.

cultural
Q

What are common misconceptions about za'atar chicken?

A

Many think za'atar is only for breads, but it works beautifully as a dry rub for meats. Also, the spice blend is not always spicy; its flavor is more earthy and citrusy.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making za'atar chicken?

A

Overcooking the breast, not preheating the pan enough, and using too little oil which can cause the spices to burn. Ensure the chicken is dry, the pan is hot, and the coating is evenly applied.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe sear the chicken on high heat instead of baking it?

A

High‑heat searing creates a quick caramelized crust that locks in juices, making the chicken flavorful and ideal for fast meal prep, whereas baking would take longer and produce a softer texture.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski focuses on practical, no‑fluff cooking tutorials that emphasize quick techniques, meal‑prep strategies, and approachable flavor combinations for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Ethan Chlebowski's approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Ethan Chlebowski often simplifies traditional Mediterranean dishes by using high‑heat stovetop methods and minimal ingredients, making authentic flavors accessible without extensive prep or specialty equipment.

channel

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