Easy Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken – Rustic & Flavorful
A rustic French-inspired roasted chicken recipe infused with whole garlic cloves, olive oil, and thyme. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — all baked in one pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
-
3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or mixed pieces
-
20–25 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
-
3 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp lemon juice
-
½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
-
6–8 fresh thyme sprigs
-
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
-
(Optional) 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions
-
Season chicken with salt and pepper. Marinate with garlic, lemon juice, thyme, olive oil, and optional mustard for 30 minutes or up to overnight.
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
(Optional) Brown chicken in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side.
-
Place chicken in roasting dish skin-side up. Scatter garlic and thyme around. Pour wine/broth into the pan, avoiding the skin.
-
Roast for 45–55 minutes, basting once or twice. Broil briefly for extra crispness if desired.
-
Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Serve with roasted garlic and pan juices.
Notes
Add halved shallots, potatoes, or carrots to the pan for a full meal. Substitute rosemary or herbes de Provence for thyme if desired.