Easy Roasted Orange Chicken with Garlic and Thyme
Easy Roasted Orange Chicken with Garlic and Thyme is a simple and flavorful dish that brightens up any dinner. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, thanks to the fresh…
Tip: save now, cook later.Easy Roasted Orange Chicken with Garlic and Thyme is a simple and flavorful dish that brightens up any dinner. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, thanks to the fresh orange juice that adds a nice citrus zing. Garlic and thyme round out the flavors, giving it a lovely herby and fragrant touch that’s hard to resist.
I love making this recipe when I want something impressive but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The best part is how quickly it all comes together—just a few ingredients, a little roasting time, and you have a dish that smells absolutely amazing. I usually let the orange slices and fresh thyme steep with the chicken while it cooks, which makes every bite feel fresh and zesty.
One of my favorite ways to serve this chicken is alongside a simple green salad or some roasted veggies to keep the meal light and balanced. The sauce that forms from the orange and garlic juices is perfect for drizzling over rice or mashed potatoes. This meal always feels like a little celebration on a regular weeknight, bringing a bit of sunshine to the table no matter the season.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Chicken: A small whole chicken works best for even roasting. If you prefer, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Oranges: Fresh oranges give a bright citrus flavor and moisture. If you can’t get fresh, a mix of orange juice and zest works well too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds bold flavor. Garlic powder is a quick substitute, but fresh always tastes better here.
Thyme: Fresh thyme gives a subtle earthy touch. Dried thyme works fine but use less—about a third of the fresh amount.
Olive Oil: It helps crisp the skin and carry flavors. You can swap with avocado oil or melted butter for a different twist.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Crispy?
Getting juicy meat with crispy skin is the goal here. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat the chicken dry well before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp during roasting.
- Try rubbing some of the seasoning mixture under the skin around the breasts for more flavor and moisture.
- Roast at a high heat (425°F/220°C) so the skin crisps up quickly while the inside stays juicy.
- Baste the chicken once or twice with pan juices to keep it moist and add more flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after roasting. This allows juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Roasting pan or baking dish – roomy enough to hold the whole chicken and orange slices comfortably.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check the chicken is perfectly cooked without guessing.
- Sharp knife – for carving the chicken cleanly after roasting.
- Basting brush or spoon – to spread the garlic and thyme mixture and baste the chicken with juices.
- Cutting board – for prepping and carving the chicken safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap fresh thyme for rosemary for a piney, slightly stronger herb flavor that pairs well with citrus.
- Add whole garlic cloves around the chicken in the pan for gentle roasted garlic flavor.
- Use lemon instead of orange for a sharper, more tangy citrus taste.
- Include sliced shallots or red onions to roast with the chicken for a touch of sweetness and depth.
Easy Roasted Orange Chicken with Garlic and Thyme
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 2 large oranges, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Optional: 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes to roast, depending on your chicken’s size. After roasting, remember to let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. So altogether, plan for around 1 hour 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your seasoning by mixing minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, pepper, orange juice, and honey (if using) in a small bowl.
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up. Rub the garlic and thyme mixture evenly over the entire chicken, making sure to get some under the skin around the breasts for maximum flavor.
3. Arrange and Roast:
Lay the orange slices in a single layer at the bottom of a roasting pan or dish. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the orange slices. Roast in the oven for about 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully golden and crispy. Baste the chicken a couple of times with the pan juices during roasting to keep it moist.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once your chicken is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices settle, so every bite stays juicy. Serve the chicken with the roasted orange slices, spooning the flavorful pan juices over the top for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even roasting and safe internal temperatures.
Can I Substitute Other Citrus Fruits for Orange?
Absolutely! Lemons or limes can be used instead of oranges for a different citrus flavor. Keep the slicing and juice quantities the same to maintain balance.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and oranges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of juice or broth to keep the meat moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the seasoning and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance in the fridge. Just roast when you’re ready to serve for fresh, vibrant flavor.
