Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken

Name: Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons dried rosemary; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 lemon, quartered; 5 cloves garlic, smashed; 1 onion, quartered; 2 cups vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Holiday Table Delights

I absolutely love making this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken for my gatherings. The aroma of fresh herbs fills the kitchen, reminding me of the warmth and joy of the holidays. This roasted chicken is not only visually stunning but also packed with incredible flavors that will leave your guests raving about it long after the feast is over. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your holiday traditions.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:21:34.484Z

Every time I prepare this roast chicken, I am reminded of my family gatherings growing up. The recipe brings everyone together, creating laughter and love around the dinner table. I love to experiment with different herbs and spices, but I've found that a balance of rosemary and thyme gives the chicken a flavor that's truly mouthwatering.

This method of roasting at a high temperature ensures the skin crisps up beautifully, while the meat stays juicy and tender. To enhance the flavor even more, I often stuff the cavity with lemon slices and garlic cloves, bringing a zesty brightness to each bite.

Why You Will Love This Roast Chicken
Aromatic blend of fresh herbs fills your kitchen with festive joy
Crispy skin with juicy, flavorful meat every single time
Impressive presentation for any holiday table or gathering

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting a whole chicken for roasting, look for one that’s plump and has a good amount of fat under the skin, which helps keep the meat moist during cooking. Organic or free-range chickens generally have better flavor and texture, making them ideal for special occasions like the holidays. A weight range of 4-5 lbs is perfect; anything larger may require additional cooking time and can lead to drying out.

Be sure to remove any giblets and excess fat from the cavity of the chicken before seasoning. This not only enhances the flavor but also accommodates for even cooking. For those who prefer chicken with a stronger flavor, you might want to consider brining the chicken a day in advance, soaking it in a mix of water, salt, and herbs to create a juicy and savory final product.

The Importance of Basting

Basting the chicken with its own juices during roasting is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy skin we all crave. Set a timer to remind yourself to baste every 25 minutes. Use a baster or a ladle to spoon the pan juices over the chicken; this technique helps the skin develop a beautiful color and locks in moisture, preventing the meat from drying out.

If you notice that the skin is browning too quickly, it's a good idea to cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing it to cook through. This foil shield can be removed in the last 20-30 minutes to let the skin crisp up and achieve that delicious crackling texture. Timing is essential here, so keep an eye on the temperature as well!

Serving Suggestions

Once the chicken has rested for 10-15 minutes, it's the perfect time to carve it. Consider serving it alongside seasonal sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fluffy potato dish, to complement the savory flavors of the chicken. Tossing in a fresh cranberry sauce or a tangy apple chutney can elevate your holiday feast even further, offering a contrasting flavor that enhances the dish's richness.

For a lighter option, a fresh green salad topped with citrus segments can add brightness to the plate. If you're looking to prepare a more extensive meal, try preparing a hearty stuffing or bread pudding as a side. Any leftover roast chicken is excellent in salads or sandwiches, so be sure to save any extra!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful roast chicken that everyone will love!

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 lemon, quartered
5 cloves garlic, smashed
1 onion, quartered
2 cups vegetable broth

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor. You can also add your favorite seasonal vegetables around the chicken for a complete meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to achieve a perfectly roasted chicken!

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, inside and out.

Stuff and Arrange

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon, garlic, and onion. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the vegetable broth into the bottom.

Roast the Chicken

Roast in the preheated oven for 75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste every 25 minutes for a crispy skin.

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite side dishes!

This resting period is crucial for ensuring the juices settle back into the meat, so it doesn't dry out during slicing.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like sage and parsley to the roasting pan along with the chicken. It enhances the aroma and taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're short on time on the day of your gathering, consider prepping your chicken a day in advance. After seasoning, cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the herbs and seasonings to penetrate the meat more deeply, enhancing the flavor. Just remember to bring the chicken to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.

Alternatively, you can prepare the vegetable broth ahead of time. Simmer the vegetables and herbs with water, then strain and store it in the refrigerator. When it's time to cook, simply pour it into the roasting pan for a boost of flavor right from the start. Preparing components ahead can simplify your process and also reduce stress on the big day.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The roasted chicken can be used in numerous dishes, such as soups, salads, or tacos. To keep that just-roasted texture, consider reheating in the oven rather than the microwave; cover loosely with aluminum foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, typically around 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in freezer bags labeled with the date. Ground chicken can last up to six months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy your holiday feasting well into the new year. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow reheating instructions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a smaller chicken?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller chicken will cook faster.

→ What sides go well with this roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a fresh green salad all complement this dish beautifully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?

You can season the chicken the night before and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before roasting.