One-Pot Chicken with Dates

whole chicken 2kg or chicken thighs or legs 1.5kg
SIDS SALT & PEPPER to taste
4 tbsp rice bran oil, or any SIDS flavoured oils
1 lemon, cut into thick rounds, pips removed
2 shallots, halved lengthways
6 dates, pitted
4 thyme or oregano sprigs, plus extra to serve
1 tsp dried chilli flakes

Heat the oven 220°C. Season the chicken all over with SIDS SALT & PEPPER. Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large casserole over medium-high heat. Put the chicken in the pot, breast-side up and, using tongs, press lightly to make sure the skin comes into even contact with the base. (If using thighs or legs, sear the chicken skin-side down.)
Cook for 5-8 minutes without moving the chicken, until browned. Add the lemon slices and shallots, ensuring the lemon gets to the bottom of the pan. Sizzle for 2 minutes.
Add the dates, herbs and 250 ml water. Sprinkle the top of the chicken with the chilli and put the lid on. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the dates are plump, the lemon slices are jammy and the chicken is almost but not totally cooked through.
Remove the lid and drizzle the chicken with the remaining 2 tbsp oil. Continue to cook for another 20-30 minutes until the liquid has reduced by ½, and the top of the chicken is golden brown.
Rest the chicken in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a chopping board and carve. Serve alongside the shallots, lemon slices and dates, with some more thyme and flaky salt sprinkled over.