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Roasted Chicken Thighs with Oranges and Olives

Roasted Chicken Thighs with Oranges and Olives

Juicy roasted chicken thighs bursting with Mediterranean flair, combining sweet oranges and briny Kalamata olives for a tender, savory, and unforgettable one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare and packed with bold flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Citrus and Olives

  • 2 fresh oranges, sliced with peel on
  • 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken and marinade: Pat the chicken thighs dry to ensure crisp skin. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and toss well to coat evenly, letting it marinate briefly to absorb the aromatic flavors.
  2. Arrange chicken and citrus in the pan: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet. Surround the chicken with sliced fresh oranges and pitted Kalamata olives. The oranges will roast alongside the chicken, creating a luscious sauce.
  3. Roast until golden and juicy: Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. The juices from the oranges and olives will caramelize slightly, infusing the chicken with rich flavor.
  4. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after roasting to allow the juices to redistribute. Spoon some of the roasted oranges and olives over the chicken before serving, highlighting the vibrant sauce and textures.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve ultra-crispy skin.
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary add a brighter, more vibrant taste than dried herbs.
  • Roasting at high heat locks in juices and crisps skin without drying the meat.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; give chicken thighs space to roast evenly and develop crispy skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
  • Optionally add crushed red pepper flakes or cumin for a spicy or smoky twist.
  • You can swap Kalamata olives for green or Castelvetrano olives for milder flavor.
  • Toss in sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or artichokes for added veggies and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted chicken thighs, Mediterranean chicken, chicken with oranges, chicken with olives, one-pan chicken, juicy crispy chicken, easy chicken dinner, gluten-free chicken recipe