Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken

Name: Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon salt; 2 teaspoons black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon dried rosemary; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; 1 cup chicken broth; Assorted vegetables (carrots, potatoes, etc.) for roasting

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive Treats

I absolutely love preparing a roast chicken for the holidays! There’s something so special about gathering around the dinner table, where the aroma of fragrant herbs and roasted vegetables fills the air. This recipe blends traditional flavors with modern touch, making it perfect for any festive occasion. I often find myself experimenting with different marinades and side dishes to accompany the chicken, ensuring every meal is unique and memorable. Trust me, this roast chicken will become a beloved centerpiece in your holiday celebrations!

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:30:35.532Z

When I first tried my hand at roasting a chicken, I was amazed at how rewarding it felt to serve a beautiful, golden bird at the table. The key is in the seasoning and choosing the right herbs. I experimented with thyme and rosemary; their earthy flavors truly complement the chicken's richness. Pairing it with a citrus-based marinade elevates the entire dish.

I'll never forget the first time I served this recipe during a holiday gathering. My family couldn't stop praising the juicy meat and crispy skin. The secret is to rest the chicken after roasting, allowing the juices to redistribute and enhance each bite. It's these little details that turn a simple dish into a cherished holiday tradition.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent meat infused with aromatic herbs
Crispy skin that crackles with each bite
Perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings

Crafting the Perfect Roast

One of the keys to achieving a beautifully roasted chicken is the seasoning. I recommend using a generous amount of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. The dried thyme and rosemary not only add fragrance but also a depth of flavor as they infuse into the meat while it cooks. Ensure you rub the herbs into every crevice, including under the skin where possible, for maximum flavor impact.

When preparing your chicken, it’s crucial to bring it to room temperature before roasting. This step can take about 30 minutes, and it promotes even cooking throughout the bird. Additionally, patting your chicken dry helps ensure that the skin crisps up beautifully for that coveted crunchy exterior.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The assortment of vegetables you choose to roast alongside your chicken can elevate the dish significantly. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips are excellent due to their density, which allows them to caramelize nicely and soak up the chicken’s juices. Cut them into similar sizes so they cook evenly during the roasting process, and toss them in a splash of olive oil and additional seasoning for added flavor.

If you're looking for a twist, consider adding seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or butternut squash. These not only complement the flavors of the chicken but also bring vibrant colors to your holiday table, making it more festive and inviting.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
1 cup chicken broth
Assorted vegetables (carrots, potatoes, etc.) for roasting

Make sure to have all these ingredients prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect roast:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and minced garlic. Rub the seasoning inside and out for deep flavor.

Add Aromatics

Stuff the cavity with lemon and onion quarters to infuse moisture and flavor while roasting.

Roast the Chicken

Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan, then place the chicken in the oven. Roast for about 90 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices.

Rest and Serve

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to keep it juicy.

Your delicious roast chicken is ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge. You can also add more vegetables around the chicken in the roasting pan for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the fantastic aspects of this roast chicken recipe is that you can prep some components ahead of time. For instance, you can marinate the chicken the night before by applying the olive oil and herb mixture and leaving it to absorb the flavors in the fridge. This not only saves time on the day you plan to serve but also deepens the taste.

Vegetables can also be prepared in advance; simply chop them and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Toss them with olive oil right before you place them in the roasting pan to keep them fresh and crisp.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover chicken, I recommend storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should last for up to four days. To keep the meat from drying out, consider adding a splash of broth or pan juices before sealing it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded or whole leftover chicken for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes, ensuring that it doesn’t dry out during the process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken skin isn't browning as expected, it might be because the oven temperature is too low or there’s not enough fat on the skin. Increasing the oven temperature slightly toward the end of roasting can help achieve that golden, crispy skin. Additionally, ensuring the chicken skin is dry before seasoning will contribute to a better texture.

In case you notice that the chicken is cooking unevenly, consider rotating it halfway through the cooking process. This will help achieve an even roast. Using a meat thermometer is essential – insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone, and ensure it reads 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen chicken?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even roasting.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I cook this chicken on a grill?

Yes! You can roast it over indirect heat on a grill for a smoky flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this roast chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad make great sides.