If you’ve ever had Zankou Chicken, you know it’s not just a meal—it’s an obsession. This famous Los Angeles chicken joint is beloved for its juicy rotisserie chicken, bold garlic sauce (toum), and vibrant pickled vegetables. What began as a small Armenian family business in Beirut and later Los Angeles has become a culinary landmark. Whether you’re recreating that nostalgic takeout box or discovering it for the first time, this zankou chicken recipe brings that authentic flavor home.
Why You’ll Love This Zankou Chicken Recipe
- Big, bold flavor with minimal ingredients
- The iconic garlic sauce is addictive
- Perfect for meal prep or easy dinners
- Naturally gluten-free and high-protein
- Pairs well with salads, hummus, or rice
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Zankou Chicken
Bone-in chicken quarters or whole chicken
The star of the dish—roasted to crispy, golden perfection and infused with Mediterranean spices.
Garlic cloves
Used in the signature garlic sauce (toum); brings bold, sharp flavor and creamy texture.
Lemon juice
Adds brightness to both the marinade and garlic sauce.
Neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed)
Helps emulsify the garlic sauce into a smooth, fluffy texture.
Turmeric, paprika, cumin
Spices that give the chicken its signature color and warm, earthy flavor.
Pickled turnips and pepperoncini
Classic Mediterranean sides for crunch and tang.
Hummus & fresh tomatoes
Creamy and refreshing components that complete the Zankou-style plate.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Zankou Chicken
- Prepare the marinade
In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, turmeric, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. - Marinate the chicken
Rub the marinade generously over the chicken and let it sit for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight in the fridge. - Roast the chicken
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken skin-side up in a baking dish. Roast for 45–55 minutes, or until internal temp hits 165°F. - Make the garlic sauce (Toum)
In a food processor, blend garlic and salt. Slowly drizzle in lemon juice and oil while blending until fluffy and emulsified. - Prepare the sides
Chop tomatoes, rinse lettuce, and arrange pickled turnips and pepperoncini. - Assemble your plate
Serve the chicken with toum, hummus, pickled veggies, and salad. Add pita or rice if desired.
Expert Tip: Let the chicken rest 10 minutes after roasting to keep it juicy and easy to carve.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For crispier skin: Broil the chicken for the last 3–5 minutes.
- No food processor? Use a blender or mortar and pestle for the garlic sauce.
- Low-fat version: Use skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Extra spicy? Add chili flakes or harissa to the marinade.
How to Store & Reheat
To store:
Place leftover chicken and garlic sauce in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat:
Warm chicken in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Garlic sauce should be served cold or at room temperature (don’t microwave it).
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of bold, comforting flavors like those in this Zankou Chicken recipe, you’ll definitely want to try these next:
- Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta – A rich and satisfying dish that pairs garlic butter chicken with velvety ricotta alfredo sauce.
- Rotisserie Chicken – Master the art of perfectly seasoned and tender rotisserie chicken at home—just like your favorite store-bought version.
- Creamy Parmesan Shells with Garlic Butter Steak Bites – Tender steak bites in a garlic butter sauce served with cheesy pasta shells—it’s a flavor-packed dinner winner.
These dishes are just as easy and crave-worthy, making them perfect for rotating into your weekly meal plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Zankou Chicken?
Zankou Chicken is a Los Angeles-based fast-casual restaurant known for rotisserie chicken, garlic sauce (toum), and Mediterranean sides.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless thighs or breasts work well—just reduce cook time to avoid drying out.
Is the garlic sauce spicy?
It’s pungent but not spicy. The intense garlic flavor is balanced by oil and lemon juice.
What should I serve with it?
Great with hummus, pita bread, rice pilaf, or tabbouleh.
Can I freeze leftovers?
The cooked chicken freezes well. Garlic sauce does not freeze well due to its emulsion.
This Zankou Chicken recipe delivers bold flavor, juicy roasted chicken, and that crave-worthy garlic sauce—all from the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you’re recreating a favorite takeout plate or exploring new flavors, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it tonight and taste why Zankou Chicken has a cult following. Don’t forget to share your plate and tag us—we love seeing your creations!
Zankou Chicken Recipe with Garlic Sauce
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.