Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe

There is something so irresistibly comforting about Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe. This dish beautifully marries tender, juicy chicken infused with fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of white wine, creating layers of flavor that will have you savoring every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends with your culinary skills, this recipe offers an easy yet elegant way to elevate your chicken game with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh ingredients are all it takes to make this Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe truly shine. Each element plays a crucial role in building the dish’s bright, savory flavors and tender texture while making your kitchen smell incredible.

• 2 1/2 to 3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or leg quarters): Provides juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin.
• 1/4 cup avocado or olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the skin brown beautifully.
• Sea salt & ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
• 3 medium shallots, thinly sliced: Lends a subtle sweetness and delicate onion flavor.
• 20 to 25 garlic cloves, whole: Roasts to mellow, buttery perfection, infusing the chicken.
• Small bunch fresh thyme: Brings an earthy freshness that complements poultry perfectly.
• 3 to 4 sprigs fresh rosemary: Adds a woody aroma that pairs beautifully with garlic.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and creates a savory pan sauce.
• 1/2 cup white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio recommended): Contributes acidity and subtle fruitiness to deepen the flavor.

How to Make Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (204°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature as you prep. Line a large casserole dish with Reynolds Wrap® Heavy Duty Foil to make cleanup a breeze and ensure your chicken roasts evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Spread the thinly sliced shallots evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Scatter about half of the whole garlic cloves over the shallots, then sprinkle fresh thyme and rosemary on top. This aromatic bed will infuse your chicken with deep and vibrant flavors as it roasts.

Step 3: Season and Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces skin side up over the shallot and garlic mixture. Drizzle avocado or olive oil generously on both sides of the chicken, followed by a healthy sprinkle of sea salt and ground black pepper. Add a few more thyme sprigs on top, then tuck in the remaining garlic cloves around the chicken for extra bursts of garlic goodness.

Step 4: Add Broth and White Wine

Pour chicken broth and white wine carefully along the edges of the pan. Avoid pouring directly over the chicken so you preserve all those delicious seasonings on the skin. If you prefer, substitute the white wine with a mix of lemon juice and chicken broth to keep the acidity balanced but add a bright twist.

Step 5: Roast to Perfection

Roast uncovered in the preheated oven for around 1 hour, or until the chicken skin is beautifully golden and crispy and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). For extra-caramelized skin, switch on the broiler for the last 5 to 7 minutes, but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Step 6: Serve with Pan Sauce

Once out of the oven, spoon some of the aromatic pan sauce over the chicken pieces while the skin is still moist. This adds luscious flavor and keeps each bite tender and juicy.

How to Serve Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley right before serving brightens the dish visually and enhances its fresh herbal notes. For a final touch, a thin lemon wedge on the side offers an optional burst of citrus to brighten up each bite.

Side Dishes

This Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy roasted potatoes, rich potato gratin, buttery pasta, or fluffy rice. Choose sides that soak up the pan sauce beautifully to complete your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken family-style in the roasting pan itself for a rustic dinner vibe or plate it elegantly by arranging each piece on a bed of garlic-infused sautéed greens. You can even get playful by shredding leftovers into a savory tart or hearty stew.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pan sauce separate or poured over the chicken to retain moisture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken pieces wrapped tightly in foil or airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftover chicken gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep the meat juicy. Alternatively, microwave on medium power while covered to avoid drying.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

You can, but bone-in, skin-on chicken is preferable because it stays juicier and develops a crispier, more flavorful skin during roasting.

What if I don’t have white wine?

No worries! Substitute with a mix of lemon juice and chicken broth for acidity and brightness or simply use all chicken broth for a milder but still delicious version.

Do I need to peel the garlic cloves?

It’s best to use whole peeled garlic cloves as they soften and sweeten while roasting, adding a mellow garlic flavor without any harshness.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden and crisp, and the juices run clear.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and seasoning setup a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Roast it fresh just before dinner to enjoy the best textures.

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Roasted French Garlic Chicken with White Wine Recipe is truly one of my go-to dishes when I want something impressive yet straightforward. The harmony of rich garlic, fresh herbs, and zesty wine creates a wonderful comfort food experience that you’ll want to make again and again. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become an instant favorite in your cooking repertoire!

Print