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
- 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.
Pin it 
Pin it Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is zaatar and how is it used?
Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made with thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It adds a tangy and herbal flavor when rubbed onto chicken and vegetables before roasting.
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used but may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out. Adjust accordingly and monitor internal temperature.
- → What potatoes work best for roasting?
Yukon gold or red potatoes are ideal as they crisp nicely while remaining creamy inside. Cut into uniform chunks for even cooking.
- → How do I get crispy chicken skin?
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and roast at a high temperature uncovered to achieve crispy, golden skin.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Season the chicken and potatoes in advance and refrigerate. Roast fresh when ready to serve for optimal texture and flavor.
- → What garnishes complement the flavors?
Chopped fresh parsley adds brightness and toasted sesame seeds contribute a nutty crunch that enhances the dish’s aroma.