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Roasted Chicken with Garlic Confit

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This roasted chicken with garlic confit is a masterclass in extracting deep, mellow flavour from simple ingredients. By gently poaching whole garlic cloves in olive oil, the harshness of the raw bulb transforms into a buttery, sweet paste that seasons the poultry beautifully. The high-heat roasting method ensures the skin becomes wonderfully crisp while the meat remains succulent and tender underneath.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this dish focuses on high-quality fats and lean protein without the need for sugary glazes or heavy starches. It is a sophisticated yet easy-to-prepare meal that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some steamed seasonal greens to keep the meal light, healthy, and thoroughly satisfying for a midweek dinner or a relaxed Sunday lunch.

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Ingredients for Roasted Chicken with Garlic Confit

  • 12 garlic cloves (about 1 head), lightly smashed and peeled

  • 3 fresh thyme sprigs

  • 180ml plus 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 (3-lb) chicken, quartered

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1/2 teaspoons black pepper

How to make Roasted Chicken with Garlic Confit

Put oven rack in upper third of oven and preheat oven to 260°C.

Cook garlic, thyme, and 180ml oil in a 1- to 1 1/2-quart heavy saucepan over low heat, uncovered, until garlic is very tender but not golden, about 25 minutes.

While garlic is cooking, pat chicken pieces dry and rub all over with butter and remaining tablespoon oil. Sprinkle all over with salt and pepper. Arrange chicken, skin sides up, in a shallow baking pan and roast 20 minutes.

Transfer garlic to a small bowl along with 1 tablespoon garlic oil and mash with a fork. Spread mashed garlic over skin of roasted chicken, then return chicken to oven and roast until just cooked through and skin is crisp, about 5 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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