Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken

Name: Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 lemons (halved); 4 garlic cloves (crushed); 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary; 4 sprigs of fresh thyme; 4 carrots (cut into chunks); 3 potatoes (quartered); 2 onions (cut into wedges); 1 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Seasonal Kitchen Stories

I absolutely love making roast chicken during the holiday season. The aroma fills my home with warmth and nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings and festive dinners. This recipe has been refined over the years, and it always impresses guests with its juicy meat and beautifully crispy skin. A blend of seasonal herbs and spices elevates this dish, making it perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in. Whether you’re a veteran in the kitchen or just starting, I promise this dish will be your go-to for festive feasts.

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-01-26T01:58:34.158Z

When I crafted this holiday roast chicken recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of the season. The use of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme truly brings the flavors alive. I’ve experimented with various roasting times and temperatures, and I’ve found that starting at a high heat creates that coveted crispy skin, while reducing the heat allows the meat to cook perfectly without drying out.

One tip I love to share is to let the chicken rest after roasting. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and tender. I often pair this roast with seasonal vegetables for a complete, festive meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of seasonal herbs that enhance flavor
Crispy skin with moist and tender meat
Perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering

Aromatics and Their Importance

The combination of fresh rosemary and thyme in this roast chicken recipe not only enhances the aroma but also infuses moisture and flavor into the meat. These herbs have natural oils that, when heated, release fragrant essences that make the chicken irresistible. For an herbal twist, consider swapping in some sage or tarragon, giving the dish a unique taste reflecting your seasonal preferences.

Using garlic as a stuffing inside the chicken cavity contributes significantly to the flavor profile. As it roasts, the garlic becomes sweet and tender, absorbing the juicy drippings and infusing every bite with a depth of flavor. Don't hesitate to use additional cloves if you’re a garlic lover—up to six cloves can be roasted alongside the chicken without overpowering the dish.

Perfecting the Roasting Process

The initial high temperature of 425°F (220°C) is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin. This method helps the outer layer brown beautifully while sealing in the juices. Make sure to monitor the chicken closely during the first 15 minutes to prevent over-browning. If you notice it darkening too quickly, you can tent it lightly with aluminum foil to shield it from direct heat.

When lowering the temperature to 375°F (190°C), you create a more even cooking environment that allows the meat to reach the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) without drying out. Using a meat thermometer is key here; insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone for the best reading.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious holiday roast chicken:

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 lemons (halved)
4 garlic cloves (crushed)
4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
4 sprigs of fresh thyme

For the Vegetables

4 carrots (cut into chunks)
3 potatoes (quartered)
2 onions (cut into wedges)
1 cup chicken broth

Make sure to adjust the quantities if you're serving more or less people!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect roast chicken:

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.

Seasoning

Rub the olive oil all over the chicken. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme.

Roasting

Arrange the chopped vegetables around the chicken in the roasting pan. Pour chicken broth over the vegetables. Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Resting

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This step is essential for juicy meat.

Enjoy your beautifully roasted chicken with your choice of sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider brining the chicken in a saltwater solution the night before. This will result in even juicier meat.

Serving Suggestions

This holiday roast chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh cranberry sauce to complement the richness of the chicken. A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

For a festive spin, you could serve the roast chicken on a large platter garnished with seasonal fruits or nuts. Dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds add color and a sweet-tart flavor that enhances the overall presentation and taste of the dish.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

If you're preparing for a big gathering, consider seasoning the chicken the night before. Allowing it to rest in the fridge after seasoning helps the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful roast. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors in the fridge.

Leftover roast chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, shred the meat and freeze it for up to three months. It can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave; just add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before roasting.

→ What can I serve with this roast chicken?

Seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can season the chicken a few hours before roasting and refrigerate it to enhance the flavor.