Oh, I’m so excited to share this recipe for Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables with you! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only bursting with flavor, but it also makes me feel like a gourmet chef without needing to put in hours of work. The tangy, citrusy flavor of sumac transforms the humble chicken into something truly special. I remember the first time I made this for my friends; they thought I had ordered takeout from a fancy restaurant!
Sumac, with its vibrant reddish-purple hue, adds a unique twist that keeps everyone guessing what the secret ingredient is. Pair that with the colorful roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!
What’s in Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables?
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe. They are juicier and more flavorful compared to chicken breasts, which can often dry out. Plus, the skin gets crispy during roasting!
Sumac: This is the star of the show! The tangy, lemony flavor of sumac brings brightness to the dish. If you can’t find sumac at your local grocery store, you might check out Middle Eastern markets or order it online.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for both flavor and roasting. I absolutely love drizzling it over my veggies before they hit the oven—it really enhances everything.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch to the chicken that mingles beautifully with the sumac. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh gives the best flavor.
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice not only adds acidity but also complements the sumac beautifully. I’ve been known to add a little lemon zest, too—why not boost that flavor even further?
Vegetables: For this recipe, I like a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and carrots. You can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand—this dish is versatile and accommodating!
Is Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables Good for You?
Absolutely! This meal offers a wealth of nutrients, thanks to the wholesome ingredients.
Chicken Thighs: Rich in protein, these flavorful cuts help keep you feeling satisfied. They also contain B vitamins, which are essential for energy and metabolism.
Vegetables: The colorful array of veggies provides a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The carrots add a dose of beta-carotene, while bell peppers are packed with vitamin C—perfect for keeping your immune system strong!
However, it’s worth noting that while chicken thighs are delicious, they do come with higher fat content compared to leaner cuts of chicken. If you’re looking for a lighter option, feel free to substitute with skinless chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (serves 4)
– 2 tablespoons sumac
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, carrots)
How to Make Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), which will ensure your chicken gets that delightful crispiness.
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, sumac, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, coating them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge if you want to plan ahead!).
4. While the chicken is marinating, chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
5. On a large baking sheet, toss the vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
6. Place the marinated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, skin side up.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Once done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, making the chicken even juicier!
Flavor Twists and Serving Suggestions
If you want to jazz it up, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. You could also serve this meal with some warm pita bread or a side of fluffy couscous to soak up all those delicious juices.
Feeling adventurous? You can swap out the sumac for za’atar seasoning for a different flavor profile that’s still vibrant and tasty.
I can’t wait for you to try this incredible dish! It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests. Once you make it, let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Happy cooking!
