Get ready to elevate your dinner game with the tantalizing flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine! Our One Sheet Pan Roasted Zaatar Chicken and Potatoes recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the warmth of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a heavenly aroma wafting through your home, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering. Imagine succulent chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant zaatar spice blend, paired with tender baby potatoes, all roasted to perfection on a single pan. Ready to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 cups baby potatoes
- 3 tablespoons zaatar spice blend
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix zaatar spice blend, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Place chicken thighs and potatoes on the sheet pan, ensuring they are spread in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Brush the chicken and potatoes generously with the zaatar marinade, making sure to coat all surfaces evenly.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until chicken skin is golden brown and crispy, and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Check the internal temperature of chicken thighs, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional zaatar spice before serving.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, marinate the chicken and potatoes a few hours in advance or even the night before. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the dish even more delicious.
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy chicken skin, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before marinating. This step helps achieve that golden-brown finish you desire.
- Even Cooking: When placing the chicken and potatoes on the sheet pan, ensure they are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which affects the texture.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken thighs reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the finishing touches! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a little extra zaatar spice just before serving adds a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the types of vegetables you choose.
- Serve with Sides: Pair this dish with a refreshing salad or some warm pita bread to soak up the delicious juices. Your taste buds will thank you!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
