Remove any giblets from the cavity of the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
Season the chicken:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, smashed garlic cloves, and thyme. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for extra flavor.
Stuff the chicken:
Place the lemon halves and onion quarters (if using) inside the cavity of the chicken. This adds moisture and flavor while roasting.
Roast the chicken:
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking for a golden, crispy skin.
Rest and serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
This Roast Chicken with Garlic and Thyme is a flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering tender meat with a crispy, savory skin!