Save Pan-Roasted Zaatar Chicken and Potatoes offers a vibrant, aromatic experience with its crispy skin chicken thighs and tender golden potatoes. Tossed in fragrant zaatar spice and complemented by lemon zest, this dish brings the warmth of Middle Eastern flavors right to your weeknight table. Simple yet flavorful, it’s perfect for a nourishing family meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
Save The combination of zaatar’s earthy herbs and toasted sesame seeds layered with smoky paprika makes this recipe stand out. Nestled in a single pan with wedges of onion and minced garlic, the potatoes absorb these flavors perfectly. Adding lemon juice at the end delivers a bright pop, balancing the richness for a well-rounded plate.
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
- 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 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.
- 3. In another bowl, toss potatoes, red onion, and garlic with remaining olive oil, zaatar, salt, and pepper. Add lemon zest and toss well.
- 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.
- 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.
- 6. Remove from the oven. Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Let rest 5 minutes.
- 7. Garnish with chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds before serving, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Patting the chicken dry before seasoning ensures the skin crisps up beautifully during roasting. Using a single large ovenproof skillet helps all the flavors mingle and makes cleanup easier. Toss the vegetables thoroughly in the zaatar and lemon zest to infuse them with aromatic notes.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or boneless thighs—just adjust cooking time accordingly. If your zaatar blend is salty, reduce added salt to balance the flavors. This dish is naturally dairy-free but pairs well with a creamy yogurt and cucumber salad for extra tang.
Serviervorschläge
Serve hot straight from the pan, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and texture. A side of fresh salad or steamed greens complements this hearty dish beautifully.
Save This pan-roasted zaatar chicken and potatoes recipe is a celebration of simplicity and bold Middle Eastern flavors. With minimal prep and one pan to clean, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual dinners that impress with their aromatic depth and crispy textures.
Common Questions
- → What is zaatar and how does it affect the flavor?
Zaatar is a blend of herbs, sesame seeds, and spices. It adds a vibrant, earthy, and slightly tangy flavor that complements the chicken and potatoes beautifully.
- → Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, drumsticks or boneless thighs can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly to ensure tenderness and crisp skin.
- → How can I ensure the chicken skin gets crispy?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and roast at a high temperature to render fat and crisp the skin effectively.
- → Are the potatoes soft and flavorful after roasting?
Yes, roasting with olive oil, zaatar, and lemon zest infuses the potatoes with flavor while achieving a tender, golden texture.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Fresh parsley adds brightness, while toasted sesame seeds contribute a nutty crunch, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.