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 (4-5 lb) whole chicken; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 lemon, cut into wedges; 4 cloves garlic, peeled; 1 onion, quartered; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Celebration-Ready Dishes

I absolutely love preparing a roast chicken during the holiday season. The aroma that fills the kitchen is just magical, and it becomes a centerpiece for family gatherings. This festive roast chicken is not only incredibly flavorful, infused with seasonal herbs and spices, but it's also easy to prepare, allowing me to spend quality time with loved ones. I can't wait to share my secrets for achieving that perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:17:34.775Z

When I first attempted to make this roast chicken, I researched various methods and realized that brining was essential for keeping the meat moist. So, I began experimenting with different herb combinations to elevate the flavor, and it truly transformed the dish! The combination of rosemary, thyme, and zesty lemon made the perfect marinade.

What ultimately made this recipe a family favorite was the technique I learned for achieving that golden, crispy skin. I always start with a high heat to sear the outside, then lower the temperature for slow cooking. This way, the skin gets crispy while the inside stays succulent, ensuring everyone enjoys every bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent meat infused with seasonal herbs and spices
Golden, crispy skin that everyone craves
Perfect for festive gatherings and holiday celebrations

      

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial for achieving flavorful roast chicken. The combination of fresh rosemary and thyme not only adds depth but also complements the natural flavors of the chicken. Before cooking, make sure to season generously with salt and pepper; this enhances the moisture and tenderness of the meat. I often rub extra seasoning under the skin, as this creates an intense flavor that permeates every bite.

Using high-quality olive oil in the marinade helps to achieve that golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat succulent. The oil coats the skin and promotes even browning during roasting. If you're looking for a substitute, melted butter can work well too, giving a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the herbs.

Perfect Cooking Techniques

The two-stage roasting method is key to ensuring a perfectly cooked roast chicken. Starting at a higher temperature caramelizes the skin and locks in moisture, while lowering the heat allows the meat to cook through without drying out. It's advisable to start checking the chicken's doneness around the one-hour mark, especially if it’s on the smaller side.

Using a roasting pan with a rack elevates the chicken, allowing heat to circulate and the fat to drip away. This technique not only leads to a crispier skin but also provides a flavorful base for gravy or sauce using the drippings. If you don’t have a rack, placing the chicken on some chopped vegetables can work as a substitute.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
2 cups chicken broth
1 lemon, cut into wedges
4 cloves garlic, peeled
1 onion, quartered
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh to maximize flavor.

Instructions

Preparation is key to a successful roast chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the cavity with salt and pepper, then stuff it with lemon wedges, garlic, and onion.

Marinate

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated.

Roast

Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan and roast for 30 minutes at 425°F. Then, lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for an additional 60 minutes.

Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If it’s not done, continue roasting, checking every 10 minutes.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices.

Enjoy your delicious holiday roast chicken with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, brine the chicken overnight in a mixture of water, salt, and herbs. This step will ensure maximum moisture and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Roast chicken is incredibly versatile for holiday gatherings. Pair it with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a fresh salad. Drizzling some of the strained cooking juices over the chicken before serving adds a lovely touch of flavor and a hint of elegance to the presentation.

For an extra festive feel, consider adding orange slices or cranberries to your chicken's cavity alongside the usual lemon and garlic. This will give your dish aromatic nuances that elevate the holiday spirit and complement the savory notes beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider shredding the chicken and freezing it in portions for quick weeknight meals.

When reheating, I suggest placing the chicken back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain moisture. Cover it loosely with foil to prevent over-browning, and heat until warmed through, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes. This will keep the skin crispy while ensuring the meat remains juicy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can season the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for enhanced flavors.

→ What can I serve with this roast chicken?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish beautifully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before preparing and cooking to achieve even cooking.