Save A vibrant, aromatic dish featuring crispy chicken thighs and golden potatoes, tossed in fragrant zaatar and roasted to perfection a simple weeknight meal bursting with Middle Eastern flavors
This is my go-to recipe when I want a flavorful dinner that requires minimal effort but tastes like I've been cooking all day
Ingredients
- Poultry: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.2 lbs / 550 g)
- Vegetables: 1.5 lbs (700 g) Yukon gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks, 1 medium red onion, cut into thick wedges, 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp zaatar spice blend, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ¾ tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Oils & Acids: 3 tbsp olive oil, Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 tbsp), Zest of 1 lemon
- Garnishes (optional): 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Step 2:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels In a large bowl toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp zaatar smoked paprika half the salt and pepper Set aside
- Step 3:
- In another bowl toss potatoes red onion and garlic with remaining olive oil zaatar salt and pepper Add lemon zest and toss well
- Step 4:
- Arrange the potatoes and onions in a single layer in a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan Nestle the chicken thighs skin-side up among the vegetables
- Step 5:
- Roast for 35 40 minutes or until the chicken skin is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and potatoes are golden and tender
- Step 6:
- Remove from the oven Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables Let rest 5 minutes
- Step 7:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds before serving if desired
Save This dish always brings my family together around the table for a hearty meal filled with laughter and stories
Required Tools
Large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan Mixing bowls Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring spoons
Allergen Information
Contains sesame (in zaatar and optional garnish) Always check zaatar blend ingredients for additional allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 21 g Carbohydrates 29 g Protein 27 g per serving
Save A perfect balance of spices and textures that will become a staple in your kitchen
Recipe FAQ
- → What is zaatar and how does it affect flavor?
Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically containing dried thyme, oregano, sumac, and sesame seeds. It adds a tangy, herbal, and slightly nutty flavor enhancing both chicken and potatoes.
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, drumsticks or boneless thighs can be substituted. Adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure proper doneness and crispiness.
- → What type of potatoes is best for roasting here?
Yukon gold or red potatoes hold their shape well and develop a crispy exterior, making them ideal for roasting alongside chicken.
- → How do I achieve crispy chicken skin?
Patting the chicken skin dry before tossing with oil and spices and roasting at a high temperature helps produce a crispy, golden crust.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and season the vegetables in advance, but roasting is best done just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.