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 recipe quickly became a family favorite for its bold taste and easy preparation.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: about 1.2 lbs / 550 g
- 1.5 lbs Yukon gold or red potatoes: cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 medium red onion: cut into thick wedges
- 4 garlic cloves: minced
- 2 tbsp zaatar spice blend:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika:
- ¾ tsp kosher salt:
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper:
- 3 tbsp olive oil:
- Juice of ½ lemon: about 1 tbsp
- Zest of 1 lemon:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: optional
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds: optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare chicken:
- 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.
- Prepare vegetables:
- In another bowl, toss potatoes, red onion, and garlic with remaining olive oil, zaatar, salt, and pepper. Add lemon zest and toss well.
- Arrange in pan:
- 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.
- Roast:
- 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.
- Finish:
- Remove from the oven. Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Let rest 5 minutes.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds before serving, if desired.
Save Sharing this meal brings everyone together around the table for a cozy family dinner.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Skin
Dry the chicken skin thoroughly before roasting to ensure extra crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or rustic bread to complete the meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Save This dish brings vibrant flavors and simple preparation to any dinner night.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is the best cut of chicken to use?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for crisp skin and juicy meat, but drumsticks or boneless thighs are good alternatives with adjusted cooking times.
- → Can I use another spice blend instead of zaatar?
While zaatar provides unique Middle Eastern aromas, you can experiment with similar herb and sesame blends or a mix of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds.
- → How do I ensure the potatoes cook evenly?
Cut potatoes into uniform chunks and toss well with oil and seasonings before arranging in a single layer to promote even roasting alongside the chicken.
- → Is it necessary to pat the chicken dry before seasoning?
Yes, drying the chicken helps achieve a crispy skin by reducing moisture that could steam during roasting.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can season the chicken and toss the vegetables in advance, then roast fresh for best texture and flavor.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Chopped fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds add freshness and crunch, enhancing the fragrant spices.