Save A vibrant, Middle Eastern-inspired sheet pan dinner featuring juicy zaatar-spiced chicken thighs and crispy roasted potatoes, all cooked together for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.
I first made this sheet pan zaatar chicken and potatoes on a busy weeknight and was amazed by how effortless it was to whip up something so delicious. The aroma of zaatar and roasted vegetables fills the kitchen, making it a meal that feels special any day.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons zaatar spice blend, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, juice of ½ lemon
- Vegetables: 1½ pounds (700 g) baby potatoes (halved), 1 medium red onion (cut into wedges), 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Marinate Chicken:
- In a large bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, zaatar, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Set aside to marinate while you prepare potatoes.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- In another bowl, combine halved potatoes, red onion, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange & Roast:
- Spread potatoes and onions evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Nestle the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up among the vegetables.
- Roasting:
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, until chicken skin is golden and crisp and potatoes are tender. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish:
- Remove from oven, rest for 5 minutes, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Save My little cousins love helping toss the potatoes and onions in the olive oil before everything goes in the oven, making sheet pan dinners a true family affair.
Required Tools
Large rimmed baking sheet, mixing bowls, chefs knife, cutting board, tongs or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains no major allergens. Always check zaatar blend for sesame and other potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 480, Total Fat: 26 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 30 g (per serving)
Save This satisfying sheet pan meal is perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy every bite and the minimal cleanup!
Common recipe questions
- → What is zaatar, and how does it flavor the chicken?
Zaatar is a blend of herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac that adds a tangy, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor to the chicken, enhancing its taste with Middle Eastern notes.
- → Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs or breasts can be used. Just reduce the cooking time to about 25–30 minutes to avoid drying out the meat.
- → Are there any tips for achieving crispy chicken skin?
Ensure the chicken skin is patted dry before marinating and place it skin-side up on the baking sheet. Roasting at a high temperature helps create a crisp, golden skin.
- → What vegetables pair well alongside the potatoes in this dish?
Adding cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers to the pan enhances color and flavor, complementing the potatoes and chicken nicely.
- → How can I check if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.