Preheat oven to 350F (177C). Prepare a dutch oven that is tall enough to enclose the chicken.
Plate chicken on a large plate. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire chicken. Then, pour olive oil over the chicken and rub it all over. Wash your hands thoroughly.
Heat a wide frying pan over high heat. Once hot, brown the chicken by placing all sides on the pan for a few minutes until brown. Remove from heat.
Add remaining olive oil, thyme, and garlic cloves to the dutch oven. Then add the chicken. Cover and bake for 1.5 hours in the oven.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken by using a meat thermometer. It should be no less than 165F (75C).
Remove chicken from the oven, let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Carve, and serve.
