This honey roasted chicken is simply mouthwatering! With juicy chicken and sweet figs, it’s a dish that brings smiles to the dinner table.
The honey glaze makes everything sticky and delicious. I can’t help but sneak bites of those figs—they’re like candy! Who knew healthy could taste so good?
Making this dish is a breeze! Just mix honey and spices, coat the chicken, and roast. Serve it with rice or a salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels fancy, but is easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs add loads of flavor and keep the meat juicy. If you prefer, skinless chicken thighs or breasts can work too, but they might need a little extra care to stay moist.
Honey: This is the star ingredient that gives sweetness. If you’re looking for a change, maple syrup or agave syrup can be great substitutes, though they will change the flavor profile a bit.
Figs: Fresh figs make this dish indulgent and fresh, but dried figs can be used if fresh ones are not available. Just soak the dried figs in warm water for a bit before using to plump them up.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a beautiful aroma. If you don’t have it, Italian seasoning or even rosemary can be a nice alternative. Just remember that dried herbs are more potent, so use less!
How Do I Get Crispy Chicken Skin?
Achieving crispy skin on chicken thighs is key for this recipe’s texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture that can prevent crisping.
- Next, sear the chicken skin-side down in a hot skillet for 4-5 minutes without moving it. This helps create that golden crust.
- Once flipped, brush on the honey glaze and roast in the oven. The high heat helps to keep the skin crispy while the meat cooks through.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time!
Honey Roasted Chicken with Sweet Figs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup fresh or dried figs, halved or quartered
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth (optional, for roasting pan)
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Honey Roasted Chicken with Sweet Figs will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. You’ll spend just a little time getting everything ready, and then let the oven do the work while you enjoy the enticing aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that chicken crispy on the outside while juicy on the inside!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that crispy skin we all love. Season them with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—it adds wonderful flavor!
3. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme leaves, ground cinnamon, and more black pepper. This sweet and aromatic glaze will coat the chicken beautifully.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. This step gives an amazing texture!
5. Apply the Glaze:
After flipping the chicken thighs, brush the honey glaze generously onto both the skin and the meat side. Let that sweet goodness soak in!
6. Add the Figs:
Now it’s time to add those sweet figs! Arrange them around the chicken in the pan. If you like, pour a bit of white wine or chicken broth into the pan. This will keep the figs moist and infuse them with flavor as they roast.
7. Roast in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the figs are tender and caramelized. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat for super moist chicken.
9. Serve It Up:
Spoon some of the delicious pan juices over the chicken and figs. If you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an extra pop of color and aroma. Your meal is ready to impress!
10. Enjoy:
Serve this delightful dish warm with your choice of sides, like roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of your homemade honey roasted chicken with sweet figs!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Honey Roasted Chicken with Sweet Figs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the roasting time to about 15-20 minutes. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Figs?
If figs aren’t available, try using dried apricots or prunes, which offer a similar sweet and fruity flavor. For a fresher option, you can use halved grapes or peaches during the summer months.
Is This Recipe Freezable?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked chicken and figs together in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven until heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or cover and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed thoroughly.
