Lemon Za'atar Pan Fried Chicken Legs (Low Carb)

Lemon za'atar pan fried chicken legs are a delicious comfort food you never knew you needed! Tender chicken is generously seasoned with a flavorful za’atar spice blend and pan-fried to create a satisfyingly crispy skin, all while the meat remains perfectly moist and juicy. Garnished with fresh herbs and lemon juice, these easy chicken drumsticks are a dinnertime win!

With just a simple season and cooking method, this economical cut of dark meat turns into an elevated main dish that will go with any of your favorite side dishes!

Za'atar adds a punch of flavor that’s balanced with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end. 

These chicken drummies are so versatile, too. Serve them with sides like Air Fryer Broccoli with Lemon, Roasted Mashed Cauliflower with Garlic, or Tuscan Kale Salad with Lemon Garlic Dressing for a complete meal.

You're going to love the simplicity, flavor, and ease of this recipe!

easy pan fried chicken legs

Pan-fried chicken legs may not be your usual go-to when it comes to chicken dishes, but trust me, this recipe will change your mind.

The combination of the za'atar spice blend and fresh lemon juice is a pure delight, and the crispy skin on the outside of the chicken is quite possibly the best part. It's crisp and seasoned and there's no deep frying involved. 😉

This za'atar chicken recipe is so easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.

Even if it's your first time cooking drumsticks, you don't have to worry. This recipe is foolproof and will give you irresistibly moist meat and crispy chicken legs every single time.

A simple recipe perfect for the entire family, lemony za'atar drums will become your new go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. 

why this recipe works

I don't know about you, but chicken recipes can get boring pretty fast. That's why I love this zaatar pan-fried chicken drumstick recipe!

It's a refreshing step away from cooking with chicken thighs or chicken breasts, and the flavor is bold and vibrant. The cooking method is simple, yet yields delicious results every time.

Easier (and better for you) than deep frying, this pan-fried chicken legs recipe is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

With the addition of za'atar (a flavorful Middle Eastern spice blend made from dried thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds) this dish is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Like to meal prep? This recipe is perfect for that too!

You can easily make a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Serve it cold on top of a salad, or quickly reheat in the oven for a quick and tasty dinner. 

These lemony za'atar chicken legs are:

• Low-carb, keto, and paleo-friendly. 
• Easy to make with simple ingredients. 
• Packed with flavor and health benefits. 
• Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go meals. 
• Versatile! Change up the seasonings to whatever you like.

ingredients for pan-fried chicken drumsticks

Below is a look at the ingredients you will need (it's a short list!).

As far as equipment goes, I recommend using a large, non-stick pan or a cast iron skillet and having an instant-read meat thermometer handy. It's the easiest way to know if they are done.

Since you're pan frying, tongs and a splatter screen is also a really helpful tool!

• Chicken legs. They are more flavorful and cost-effective compared to other cuts. 
• Olive oil or avocado oil. For pan-frying the pieces and giving them an extra crisp exterior. Coconut oil also works well but does have a very slight coconut taste. All of these are healthier oils with a high smoke point.
• Onion powder. This adds a hint of onion flavor without any chopping or peeling required. 
• Garlic powder. Another spice cabinet staple that gives a nice garlic kick. 
• Za’atar. This Middle Eastern spice blend is the star of the show! It's a combination of dried thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, and it adds a unique flavor to the chicken. Most grocery stores will carry zaatar in their spice aisle but you can also find it on Amazon.
• Fresh lemon juice. For that refreshing zing and to balance out the flavors. 
• Flat-leaf parsley or chives and fresh lemon zest. For topping just before serving. 

how to pan fry chicken legs

These are super easy to make, however, pan-frying legs does take a little bit more active cooking time since they will need to be turned about every three minutes. 

Here's a look at the steps but be sure to check out the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page for all of the details:

the process

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes. Then add the oil. 

Next, pat dry the meat with paper towels and set them on a plate or cutting board. It's important for them to be dry since that will yield the crispiest skin.

Pro tip: You will most likely have to cook these in two batches, but if you have two large pans, you can cook all of them at once.

Finally, remove from heat and squeeze the fresh lemon juice on top of the drumsticks. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and a little bit of fresh lemon zest right before serving.

tips for the best results

• If there is not enough oil, feel free to add more oil as needed. 
• Check the internal temperature by inserting the thermometer all the way into the bone. 
• Chicken is cooked when its internal temperature is 165°F, but I like to cook these chicken pieces even longer, until the temperature reaches 170-175°F with an instant-read thermometer.
• Your stovetop temp should be at medium to medium-high heat. If it’s getting too hot, reduce the temp slightly. A good test is to see if the pan is hot enough to brown one side of the leg in about 3-4 minutes. The cook time will vary based on the size of each piece and the type of pan you're using.
• Don't overcrowd the legs. You need enough room to flip the legs around without them touching each other. 

storage

You can store the cooked chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 

To reheat, either microwave them for about a minute or two or place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. 

serving suggestions

These za'atar drumsticks will taste great with almost any side dish. If you're craving a pub food vibe, pair them with my Crispy Keto Chicken Wings and Garlic Parmesan Sauce.

For a more sophisticated meal, serve them with this Pomegranate Feta Salad with Roasted Broccolini and Creamy Dairy-Free Mashed Cauliflower on the side. 

You can even cut up the meat and serve it in a lettuce wrap or on top of a salad. Get creative and enjoy! 

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