A Cozy Middle Eastern-Inspired Chicken Dinner

This oven-roasted sumac chicken is packed with bold Middle Eastern flavor, tender potatoes, caramelized onions, and bright citrus notes. Everything cooks together in one pan, making it both comforting and easy enough for a weeknight meal.

The tangy sumac seasoning gives the chicken a deep savory flavor with a refreshing lemony finish, while the juices soak into the potatoes for an incredibly satisfying dish.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

  • Simple ingredients with rich flavor
  • One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
  • Crispy golden chicken and tender potatoes
  • Bright citrus flavor from fresh lemons and sumac
  • Perfect for family dinners or gatherings

  • Time to Cook: 45 minutes
  • Serving: 3 – 4
  • Difficulty Level: Medium
A Cozy Middle Eastern-Inspired Chicken Dinner

Ingredients

For Cozy Middle Eastern-Inspired Chicken Dinner

  • Chicken thighs / chicken legs (Halal poultry section)
  • Lemons
  • Potatoes
  • Red onions
  • Garlic
  • Fresh thyme
  • Fresh parsley
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Cumin
  • Dried thyme
  • Chili flakes / Aleppo-style pepper
  • Middle Eastern flatbread or Lebanese bread for serving

Steps for Making

    Prepare the Marinade

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, garlic, allspice, thyme, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir until a thick aromatic paste forms.

    Marinate the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. Make a few shallow cuts in the skin so the seasoning absorbs better.
  2. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, making sure every piece is well covered. Refrigerate for 1 to 3 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Before baking, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

    Arrange the Pan

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Layer the lemon slices across the bottom of a baking dish or roasting pan. Scatter fresh thyme sprigs over the lemons.
  3. Place the marinated chicken on top with the skin facing upward.

    Add Potatoes, Onions & Roast

  1. In a separate bowl, toss the sliced potatoes and onions with a little olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  2. Arrange them around the chicken in the pan.
  3. "Bake on the center rack for 25 minutes.
  4. Rotate the pan and continue roasting for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin turns golden brown and crisp.
  5. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end while watching carefully.
  6. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C)."

Nutritional Values

  • Calories: ~520 kcal
  • Dietary Fiber: ~4g
  • Protein: ~38g
  • Carbs: ~32g
  • Fats: ~28g
  • Sugars: ~3g

* Nutrition information is estimated based on the ingredients used. Values may vary.

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