Sumac Chicken with Onion, Lemon & Potatoes
This dish features juicy chicken roasted with tender potatoes and sweet caramelized onions, all coated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant sumac. The sumac adds a gentle citrusy tang (not heat), making this a comforting yet vibrant one-pan meal—perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
⏱ Time Required
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45–50 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour
🛒 Ingredients
Chicken & Vegetables
1 kg chicken pieces (bone-in thighs or drumsticks preferred)
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1 lemon, thinly sliced + juice of ½ lemon
4 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning
2½ tsp ground sumac
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
For Garnish (Optional)
Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
Extra sumac for sprinkling
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Lightly grease a large baking tray or roasting pan.
2. Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, sumac, salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon juice.
Add chicken and toss well to coat evenly.
Let marinate 10–15 minutes if time allows (optional but recommended).
3. Prepare Vegetables
In another bowl, toss potatoes and onions with 1 tbsp olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a little sumac.
Spread potatoes and onions evenly on the baking tray.
4. Assemble
Place marinated chicken on top of the vegetables.
Tuck lemon slices between chicken and potatoes.
Drizzle any remaining marinade over the tray.
5. Roast
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, turning chicken once halfway.
For extra color, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
6. Finish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and a light dusting of sumac.
Serve hot with pan juices spooned over the top.
🌟 Tips for Best Results
Bone-in chicken stays juicier than boneless.
Slice potatoes evenly so they cook through.
If onions brown too fast, loosely cover tray with foil halfway.
Add a splash of water or stock if the tray looks dry.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
With plain yogurt or garlic yogurt sauce
Alongside a simple cucumber–tomato salad
With warm pita or flatbread
Great with a tahini or lemon yogurt drizzle
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is sumac spicy?
No—sumac is tangy and lemony, not hot at all.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes—reduce cooking time to 30–35 minutes.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 28 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: Moderate
Naturally gluten-free