Save A vibrant, Middle Eastern-inspired one-pan dish featuring juicy zaatar-spiced chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, and tender greens for a satisfying and effortless meal.
A vibrant, Middle Eastern-inspired one-pan dish featuring juicy zaatar-spiced chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, and tender greens for a satisfying and effortless meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp zaatar spice blend, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 lemon zested and juiced
- Vegetables: 500 g (about 1 lb) baby potatoes halved, 1 red onion cut into wedges, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp black pepper
- Greens & Finishing: 120 g (about 4 cups) baby spinach or kale stems removed, ½ cup fresh parsley roughly chopped, ½ cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional), ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
- Season Chicken:
- In a large bowl toss the chicken thighs with 2 tbsp olive oil zaatar salt pepper lemon zest and lemon juice until well coated.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- On a large rimmed sheet pan toss the halved potatoes and red onion wedges with 2 tbsp olive oil salt and pepper Spread evenly across half the pan.
- Arrange Chicken:
- Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up among the vegetables.
- Roast:
- Roast for 35 minutes until the chicken skin is golden and potatoes are tender.
- Add Greens:
- Scatter the baby spinach (or kale) and cherry tomatoes (if using) around the chicken and potatoes Return to the oven for 5 7 minutes just until the greens wilt.
- Rest:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Finish and Serve:
- Top with fresh parsley and crumbled feta (if using) before serving.
Save This dish brings family and friends together with its delicious flavors and easy preparation.
Preparation Time
15 minutes
Cooking Tips
Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. Adjust roasting time if using boneless cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
Save This recipe is as flavorful as it is simple making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is zaatar and how does it flavor the chicken?
Zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac. It imparts a tangy, herbal, and slightly nutty flavor to the chicken when rubbed in before roasting.
- → Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this dish?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used but reduce the roasting time by about 10-15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- → How do I ensure the potatoes become crispy during roasting?
Halve the baby potatoes and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the sheet pan and roast at high heat to achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- → What greens work best in this dish?
Baby spinach or kale are excellent choices as they wilt nicely during the short roasting time, adding freshness without overpowering the main ingredients.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
You can season the chicken and prep the vegetables ahead of time. Roast just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- → Are there any suggested wine pairings?
A crisp, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the zaatar's herbal notes and the richness of the chicken beautifully.