Provencal Roasted Chicken Thighs

Name: Provencal Roasted Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, sliced

Highlighted under: Heartwarming Meal Recipes

I love making Provencal Roasted Chicken Thighs because they’re bursting with flavor and come together effortlessly. The combination of herbs like thyme and rosemary, along with the roasted garlic, truly transports me to the sun-drenched hills of Provence. It’s one of those recipes that not only fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also impresses at the dinner table. I enjoy pairing this dish with roasted veggies or a fresh salad, making it a perfect weeknight meal or an elegant weekend feast.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:05:28.211Z

When I first tried Provencal Roasted Chicken Thighs, I was amazed by how the simple ingredients created such a depth of flavor. I decided to experiment with marinating the chicken overnight and found that it absolutely made a difference in taste. The skin becomes extra crispy while the meat stays juicy, thanks to the magic of olive oil and herbs.

One tip that I believe takes the dish over the edge is to not rush the roasting. Letting it cook slowly allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a symphony of taste. I love serving it with a glass of chilled white wine, enhancing the whole experience further!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Herbs de Provence add an aromatic flair.
Juicy chicken thighs that retain their flavor.
Easy preparation with minimal cleanup.

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the chicken thighs. Their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts renders them more flavorful and forgiving in the oven, as they stay juicy and tender. When selecting chicken, look for ones that are plump and have a good amount of skin. This recipe makes the most of the skin, which crisps up beautifully and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Garlic plays a crucial role in infusing the chicken with a rich, aromatic flavor. By mincing it, you increase its surface area, ensuring that each piece infuses the marinade effectively. Additionally, using fresh thyme and rosemary provides an authentic Provencal flavor. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute dried herbs, but be mindful that dried herbs are more concentrated – use about a third of the amount.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) is essential for achieving crispy skin. A hot oven helps render the fat under the skin, leading to that golden brown finish. To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken thighs are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. If they're too close together, they might steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy skin.

When marinating the chicken, spreading the marinade both under and over the skin allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. I often recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator, for an even more intense flavor. If marinating ahead, cover the dish with plastic wrap to avoid any cross-contamination.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, sliced

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Rub the marinade under and over the skin of the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.

Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side up, and arrange lemon slices around them.

Roast the Chicken

Roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some olives over the chicken in the last 10 minutes of roasting. They add a delightful briny contrast to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

These Provencal Roasted Chicken Thighs are incredibly versatile. I love serving them alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, which complement the herby flavors beautifully. Toss the veggies in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them in the same oven for an effortless meal. Just adjust the timing based on their size to ensure everything finishes cooking simultaneously.

For a lighter option, try serving the chicken over a bed of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing balances the rich flavors and makes for a refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm evenings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps retain the skin's crispiness. Microwave reheating can lead to sogginess, so I recommend steering clear of that method if possible.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Ensure it’s completely cooled, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or store it in a freezer-friendly bag. When reheating from frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before following the reheating instructions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more quickly, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or couscous complement this chicken beautifully.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast.

→ What should I do if the skin isn't crispy?

You can broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of cooking to achieve a crispy skin.