Zankou Chicken Recipe with Garlic Sauce
Recreate the iconic Zankou Chicken at home with perfectly spiced roasted chicken, creamy toum garlic sauce, and tangy Mediterranean sides. This flavorful meal is beginner-friendly and perfect for takeout-style dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 bone-in chicken quarters
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Garlic Sauce (Toum):
- 1 cup garlic cloves peeled
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1.5 cups neutral oil canola or grapeseed
- 1 tbsp ice water optional for smoother texture
For Serving:
- Hummus
- Pickled turnips
- Pepperoncini
- Chopped tomatoes
- Fresh lettuce or parsley
- Pita bread optional
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, turmeric, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture over chicken and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Roast Chicken: oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken skin-side up on a baking tray. Roast for 45–55 minutes or until skin is crisp and internal temperature is 165°F.
- Prepare Garlic Sauce: Blend garlic and salt in a food processor until finely minced. Slowly drizzle in lemon juice and oil, alternating, to emulsify into a thick, fluffy sauce. Add a splash of ice water if needed.
- Plate and Serve: Arrange chicken with hummus, pickled turnips, pepperoncini, chopped tomatoes, and lettuce. Drizzle garlic sauce or serve on the side with pita.
Notes
For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken during the last 3–5 minutes.
Garlic sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Add chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.