Roasted Chicken with Pears & Thyme: A Sweet and Savory Comfort Dish
Golden roasted chicken meets tender, caramelized pears in this elegant yet comforting dish. Infused with fresh thyme and a touch of garlic, this recipe blends savory herbs with the natural sweetness of fruit for a meal that feels both rustic and refined—perfect for cozy weeknights or dinner parties.
Fruit and poultry pairings have long been a staple in European cooking, where apples, figs, or pears are often roasted alongside meat to enhance its richness with natural sweetness.
This dish takes inspiration from that tradition, combining juicy chicken with ripe pears, garlic, and thyme to create a one-pan dinner full of flavor.
The pears caramelize in the oven, creating a subtle glaze that elevates the chicken to something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant but simple: Impressive enough for guests, easy enough for everyday cooking.
- Flavor balance: Combines savory herbs, roasted chicken, and sweet pears in perfect harmony.
- One-pan meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh pears.
- Versatile: Works with chicken thighs, drumsticks, or a whole chicken depending on preference.
Roasted Chicken with Pears & Thyme
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs (or substitute drumsticks or a whole cut-up chicken)
- 2 ripe but firm pears Bosc or Anjou, quartered and cored
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 3 garlic cloves smashed
- 1 small red onion cut into wedges (optional, for extra sweetness)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup chicken broth or dry white wine for extra depth
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar optional, for brightness
- Substitutions & Alternatives:
- Replace pears with apples or figs for seasonal variation.
- Swap thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herbal note.
- For dairy-free omit butter and use all olive oil.
- To make it richer drizzle with a touch of honey or maple syrup before roasting.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a large baking dish or sheet pan.
- Season the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange in pan: Place chicken pieces skin-side up in the baking dish. Nestle pears, onion wedges, garlic, and thyme sprigs around the chicken.
- Add liquid: Pour chicken broth (or wine) into the pan to keep the dish moist during roasting. If using, drizzle with balsamic vinegar for added brightness.
- Roast: Place in the oven and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Caramelize finish (optional): For extra crispiness and caramelization, broil on high for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely.
- Serve: Spoon pan juices over the chicken and pears before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Pro Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and thyme for a few hours before roasting.
- Make it sweeter: Drizzle pears with a touch of honey or maple syrup before roasting.
- Crispier skin: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Vegetarian variation: Substitute chicken with roasted cauliflower or butternut squash for a hearty plant-based version.
- Storage & reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to keep the skin crispy, or microwave gently for quick meals.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairings: Serve with roasted potatoes, garlic mashed cauliflower, or wild rice pilaf. For a lighter option, pair with a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Drinks: Pairs beautifully with a glass of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or apple cider.
- Occasions: Great for cozy weeknight dinners, elevated enough for holiday gatherings, and perfect as a Sunday roast centerpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the chicken and pears, then reheat in the oven before serving. For best results, store the chicken and pears separately to maintain crispness.
Q: Can I freeze roasted chicken with pears?
You can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months, but pears may lose texture. If freezing, omit pears and roast them fresh when reheating the chicken.
Q: What type of pears are best for this recipe?
Bosc and Anjou pears hold their shape well during roasting. Avoid overly ripe pears, as they may become mushy.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 25–30 minutes, as boneless cuts cook faster.
