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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, halved; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, crushed; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I absolutely love how a perfectly roasted chicken can transform any holiday gathering into a special occasion. The aroma of herbs and spices fills the air as the chicken cooks to golden perfection, creating an inviting atmosphere. This recipe features a harmonious blend of seasonal ingredients that enhance the chicken's natural flavors, making it the centerpiece of any festive table. With simple techniques, I achieve that crispy skin and juicy meat, ensuring my guests rave about it long after the meal. Let’s dive into this delectable holiday tradition!

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:37:35.027Z

When I first prepared this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, I was amazed at how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. I marinated the chicken overnight with fresh herbs and citrus, which really brought out the rich flavors during roasting. The key is to use a high-quality bird and to let it rest before carving, giving way to juicy, succulent meat!

This recipe has since become a staple in my holiday celebrations. The process of preparing the chicken is both relaxing and rewarding, allowing me to engage with friends and family while still showing off a dish that looks impressive on the table. It truly embodies the spirit of the season!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe:
        Aromatic blend of seasonal herbs for a festive touch
Crispy skin that contrasts perfectly with juicy meat
Impressive centerpiece that’s surprisingly easy to prepare

      

Choosing the Perfect Chicken

When selecting a chicken for roasting, aim for organic or free-range options whenever possible. These chickens are usually more flavorful and have a better texture due to their diets and living conditions. Choose one that is around 4 to 5 pounds for optimal cooking time and delicious results. If necessary, check the sell-by date to ensure freshness and avoid any that display signs of discoloration or an unpleasant smell.

Consider brining your chicken a few hours ahead of time to enhance its moisture and flavor. A simple brine can be made with water, salt, and sugar, combined with your favorite herbs or spices. Soaking the chicken for about 4-6 hours can lead to a juicier roast, especially if you tend to roast chickens frequently without excellent results.

Mastering the Roast

For an even more flavorful chicken, consider marinating it in olive oil and herbs for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Make sure to bring your chicken to room temperature before roasting to promote even cooking. As a visual cue, look for the skin to turn a rich, golden color as it roasts; this typically signals that the skin has crisped up nicely.

Basting the chicken at the halfway mark is essential. I find that using a baster makes this task easy, allowing you to cover the chicken with its juices to maintain moisture and enhance flavor. If you notice that your chicken is browning too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to help prevent burning while the inside continues to cook.

Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, halved
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, crushed

For the Gravy (optional)

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coverage.

Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves, onion, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Roast

Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking for extra moisture.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute. Carve the chicken and serve on a platter.

Make the Gravy (optional)

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until thickened.

Season to taste with salt and pepper, then serve alongside the chicken.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add slices of apple or carrot to the roasting pan. This will enhance the natural sweetness and provide a delicious base for the gravy.

Storage and Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover roast chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, try to do so in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), to preserve the texture and moisture of the meat. Simply cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. You can also shred leftover chicken for use in soups, salads, or sandwiches for convenient meals.

For longer storage, consider freezing leftover roasted chicken. Carve it into pieces, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described earlier.

Gravy Variations and Uses

The optional gravy adds a rich layer of flavor that can elevate your holiday chicken experience. To enhance the gravy, consider adding a splash of white wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard while whisking in the chicken broth. This can introduce a delightful tang that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the roast chicken.

You can also customize your gravy by adding sautéed mushrooms, shallots, or fresh herbs like parsley or sage for extra depth. This is a great way to use any leftover vegetables you might have on hand. Simply sauté them in the butter before adding the flour to create a base that packs a flavorful punch.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours is ideal, but overnight yields the best flavor.

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor.

→ What sides pair well with roast chicken?

Classic sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

→ How can I store leftover chicken?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.