Pan-Roasted Zaatar Chicken (Print)

Crispy chicken thighs and golden potatoes infused with aromatic zaatar and roasted for a flavorful meal.

# Components:

→ Poultry

01 - 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 1.2 lbs)

→ Vegetables

02 - 1.5 lbs Yukon gold or red potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
03 - 1 medium red onion, cut into thick wedges
04 - 4 garlic cloves, minced

→ Spices & Seasonings

05 - 2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Oils & Acids

09 - 3 tablespoons olive oil
10 - Juice of 1/2 lemon (about 1 tablespoon)
11 - Zest of 1 lemon

→ Garnishes (optional)

12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
13 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

# Directions:

01 - Heat the oven to 425°F.
02 - Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon zaatar, smoked paprika, half the salt, and half the pepper; toss to coat evenly.
03 - In a separate bowl, toss potatoes, red onion, and garlic with remaining olive oil, zaatar, salt, pepper, and lemon zest until well coated.
04 - Spread the potato and onion mixture in a single layer in a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan. Nestle chicken thighs skin-side up among the vegetables.
05 - Place dish in oven and roast for 35 to 40 minutes until chicken skin is crisp, internal temperature reaches 165°F, and potatoes are tender and golden.
06 - Remove from oven, drizzle lemon juice over chicken and vegetables, and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
07 - If desired, sprinkle fresh parsley and toasted sesame seeds over the dish prior to serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Easy one-pan preparation means less cleanup
  • Bold, Middle Eastern flavors with crispy skin and tender potatoes
02 -
  • Zaatar blends can contain varying amounts of salt and sesame—always check ingredient labels for allergens
  • You can swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or boneless thighs: adjust roasting time for best texture
03 -
  • For extra tang, serve with a side of yogurt and cucumber salad
  • If you want even crispier chicken skin, broil for 2 minutes at the end of roasting
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