Oh boy, am I excited to share this recipe with you! Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables has a special place in my heart (and my dinner rotation). This dish takes me back to a cozy summer evening spent in a friend’s backyard, enjoying delicious food and great company. The vibrant flavors of sumac—a tangy spice that’s hard to resist—combined with the savory roasted veggies make this meal so satisfying, yet effortlessly elegant. It’s one of those dishes that impresses without requiring a ton of effort, which is totally my jam!
I absolutely love whipping this up for family dinners or even when friends drop by. It feels nutritious, colorful, and festive on the plate. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s cooking? Heavenly! So, throw on your favorite apron, and let’s get cooking!
What’s in Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables?
Let’s break down the ingredients to see what makes this dish so flavorful!
Chicken Thighs: I prefer using bone-in, skin-on thighs for their juicy tenderness. They stay moist even with high heat cooking.
Sumac: The star of the show! This spice has a tangy, lemon-like flavor that gives the chicken a unique zest. It’s often found in Middle Eastern dishes, and I absolutely love it.
Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil helps everything to roast beautifully and brings all those flavors together.
Garlic: Because what’s a dish without garlic? It adds depth and a lovely aroma.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—for their sweet crunch and gorgeous presentation.
Red Onions: They become so sweet and caramelized as they roast, adding nice bites of flavor.
Carrots: These veggies add a bit of sweetness, and they roast beautifully, becoming tender and caramelized.
Zucchini: I love the freshness zucchini brings to the dish. It cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Is Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is a delightful combination of protein and fresh vegetables, making it not only tasty but nutritious.
Chicken Thighs: Rich in protein and packed with vitamins and minerals, chicken thighs are a great choice for a hearty meal. They provide essential nutrients without being overly lean, which helps keep you full!
Vegetables: The variety of veggies brings fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to the table. Each vegetable contributes its own set of health benefits—like eye health from carrots and vitamin C from bell peppers.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat that’s heart-friendly, olive oil also contributes polyphenols that help combat oxidative stress.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, just be sure to season lightly. The sumac and vegetables can hold their own, and you don’t want to overwhelm the dish with salt.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need (Serves 4):
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons sumac
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color you like)
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How to Make Sumac Chicken with Roasted Vegetables?
1. **Preheat your oven** to 425°F (220°C). You want it nice and hot for perfectly roasted veggies!
2. **Prepare the chicken:** In a bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, minced garlic, sumac, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is coated well with the mixture.
3. **Prepare the vegetables:** On a large baking sheet, toss the sliced bell peppers, red onion, carrots, and zucchini with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in an even layer.
4. **Add the chicken:** Place the sumac-coated chicken thighs on top of the vegetables on the baking sheet.
5. **Roast in the oven:** Pop it all in the oven and roast for about 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internally) and the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
6. **Serve:** Squeeze some lemon juice over everything for an extra zesty kick. Serve it straight from the oven for an inviting touch!
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
Want to jazz things up? Here are a few fun ideas:
– **Add some Heat:** Sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
– **Switch Up the Veggies:** Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or green beans can make a lovely addition depending on the season.
– **Serving Ideas:** Pair this dish with fluffy couscous, a fresh salad, or even some warm, crusty bread to soak up all those lovely juices.
I really hope you give this recipe a try! It warms my heart (and my taste buds), and I just know it’ll do the same for you. Share your thoughts or variations in the comments; I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking, my friend!
