This honey roasted chicken is bursting with sweet flavors, thanks to the figs and honey glaze. It’s crispy on the outside and juicy inside, perfect for any dinner!
Every time I make this dish, my kitchen smells amazing! A little sweet and a little savory, it’s great served with rice or just on its own. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Chicken: A 4 lb chicken works best for even cooking. If you’re short on time, a smaller chicken or even chicken pieces can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Honey: This adds sweetness and glaze. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can also work. I love using a local honey for a personal touch!
Figs: Fresh figs complement the dish wonderfully. Dried figs can be used if fresh ones aren’t available; just be aware they will be sweeter and require less cooking time.
White Wine or Chicken Broth: This adds depth of flavor. If you’re cooking without alcohol, stick to a good quality chicken broth for moisture and flavor.
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh herbs are ideal for this recipe, but you can substitute dried rosemary. Just use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Roast the Chicken to Perfection?
Roasting the chicken right is crucial for juicy meat and crispy skin. Start by ensuring your oven is fully preheated. Rub the chicken with olive oil to help it brown nicely.
- Season inside and out with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Brush the honey mixture generously all over the chicken. This creates delicious caramelization.
- Don’t skip basting! Every 15 minutes, use the pan juices to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes post-roasting. This keeps the juices in when carving.
With these tips, your chicken will turn out amazing every time. Enjoy cooking!
Honey Roasted Chicken with Sweet Figs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs), patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Honey Glaze:
- 4 tbsp honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
For the Figs:
- 8–10 fresh figs, halved
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes to roast the chicken. After that, you’ll need to let it rest for about 10 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes for a fantastic meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot temperature will help crisp up the chicken skin perfectly while keeping the meat juicy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the whole chicken and rub it down with olive oil. Make sure to season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper both inside and out. This will add flavor as it cooks.
3. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, ground cinnamon, and white wine (or chicken broth). Whisk until everything is well mixed. This glaze is what makes your chicken so tasty!
4. Roast the Chicken:
Place the chicken breast side up in a roasting pan. Generously brush the honey mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. This will help to create that lovely glaze as it cooks.
5. Add the Figs:
Arrange the halved figs around the chicken in the pan. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the figs for a little extra flavor. These will caramelize beautifully as the chicken roasts!
6. Cook the Chicken:
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Make sure to baste the chicken with the pan juices and remaining honey glaze every 15 minutes. You want the chicken skin to be golden and crispy, and the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
7. Finish the Figs:
During the last 10 minutes of roasting, spoon some of the pan juices over the figs to help caramelize and soften them. This will enhance their sweetness and flavor!
8. Rest the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done roasting, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute for extra tenderness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken alongside the roasted figs, spooning some of the pan juices over the top for added flavor. You can garnish with fresh thyme if you’d like. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Your meal is now ready. Dig in and enjoy your wonderfully tender and juicy honey roasted chicken paired beautifully with sweet, caramelized figs!
FAQ for Honey Roasted Chicken with Sweet Figs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to completely thaw it first! Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method (submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for a few hours). Pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the honey glaze and season the chicken a day ahead. Simply cover it and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready to cook, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, and add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
What Should I Serve with Honey Roasted Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. The sweet figs complement grain-based sides like quinoa or rice, making for a hearty meal!
