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Roasted Chicken Thighs with Oranges and Olives

Roasted Chicken Thighs with Oranges and Olives

Roasted Chicken Thighs with Oranges and Olives is a vibrant and easy weeknight meal that combines juicy, tender chicken with fresh citrus brightness and savory olives, creating a restaurant-quality dinner with minimal prep and aromatic flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Citrus and Olives

  • 12 fresh oranges, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup pitted green or black olives

Flavorings

  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides for maximum flavor throughout.
  2. Slice the Oranges and Prepare Olives: Thinly slice one or two fresh oranges and pit the olives if needed. This step ensures even cooking and allows the juices to mix with the chicken juices for a delicious sauce.
  3. Arrange Everything on a Baking Sheet: Place chicken thighs skin-side up on a rimmed baking pan. Scatter orange slices, olives, and smashed garlic cloves around the chicken. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle fresh herbs evenly.
  4. Roast in the Oven: Roast the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices and allow flavors to settle beautifully.

Notes

  • Pat Dry: Ensures crispy skin rather than soggy.
  • Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to promote even roasting.
  • Use Bone-in Thighs: They stay juicier compared to boneless options when roasted.
  • Fresh Herbs Matter: Add them near the end of cooking or just before serving for maximum aroma.
  • Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to avoid drying out your chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted chicken thighs, oranges, olives, citrus chicken, easy dinner, Mediterranean chicken, weeknight meal, gluten free