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.
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.
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Save Recipe Guide
- → What is the best cut of chicken for this dish?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for juiciness and crisp skin, but drumsticks or boneless thighs can be used with adjusted cooking times.
- → Can I use other potato varieties?
Yukon gold or red potatoes are ideal for roasting because they hold their shape and caramelize well, but other waxy potatoes can be substituted.
- → How does the zaatar spice affect the flavor?
Zaatar adds a fragrant, earthy blend of herbs and sesame that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly, giving a Middle Eastern-inspired aroma.
- → Is it necessary to use lemon juice and zest?
Lemon juice and zest bring brightness and balance to the rich roasted flavors, but can be omitted or adjusted to taste.
- → What equipment is recommended for cooking?
A large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan ensures even cooking and crisping of both chicken and potatoes.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.