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; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, sliced; 1 onion, quartered; Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup reserved pan drippings; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Feast

I love the warmth and joy a hearty meal brings during the holidays, and nothing says celebration quite like our Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken. This recipe combines aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a golden, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Preparing it is truly a delightful experience, as the fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. I can’t wait for you to share this dish with loved ones—it’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday feasts.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:49:35.219Z

During the festive season, I often remember the laughter and warmth shared over a lovingly prepared meal. One year, I experimented with this roast chicken recipe, incorporating a blend of seasonal herbs and spices. The result was a dish that immediately became a holiday tradition in my home.

I found that resting the chicken before carving is crucial for retaining juiciness. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can create a memorable centerpiece that will impress your guests and keep them coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic for irresistible flavor
Perfectly roasted skin that's crispy and golden-brown
Ideal for holiday gatherings, bringing everyone together

The Secret to Flavorful Roast Chicken

The combination of aromatic herbs and spices is what truly elevates this roast chicken. Fresh rosemary and thyme not only infuse the meat with a wonderful fragrance, but they also keep the chicken moist as it cooks. If you're in a pinch, dried herbs can be used as a substitute—just reduce the amount to one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated. Adding lemon slices helps to brighten the dish, balancing the richness of the roast and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

It's crucial to ensure that your chicken is at room temperature before roasting. This helps the meat cook evenly, resulting in a juicy interior and a crisp exterior. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the breast and thighs—aim for 165°F (75°C) to guarantee that your chicken is safely cooked through without being overdone.

Mastering the Perfect Roast

When roasting, positioning the chicken correctly in the roasting pan is essential. Place it breast-side up, which helps the fat render and baste the bird naturally as it cooks. Pouring chicken broth around the chicken not only adds moisture but also creates a flavorful base that will infuse the meat. Keep an eye on the liquid level during cooking; if it reduces too much, add a splash of stock or water to prevent the drippings from burning.

Letting the chicken rest after roasting is a key step that should not be overlooked. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and tender. Cover the chicken loosely with foil to maintain warmth and serve it straight from the pan for a beautiful, rustic presentation.

Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, sliced
1 onion, quartered
Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
1 cup chicken broth

For the Gravy (optional)

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup reserved pan drippings
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Rub the olive oil all over the skin, then season generously with salt and pepper. In the cavity, place the minced garlic, lemon slices, onion quarters, and fresh herbs.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken and roast for 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Carve

Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving. Reserve the pan drippings for gravy if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider brining the chicken overnight in a mix of water, salt, and herbs. This enhances the moisture in the meat and deepens the flavor. Don't rush the resting phase
it's crucial for juicy meat!

Gravy Tips

Making gravy from the pan drippings is a wonderful way to utilize every flavorful drop of your roast chicken. Begin by deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine or additional chicken broth to lift any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Once those are incorporated, whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute until it's lightly golden and fragrant. Gradually add the reserved drippings while whisking continuously until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Taste your gravy before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If it's too thick, add a bit of broth to loosen it up. For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of cream or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy note that complements the roast chicken beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage

To save time on busy holiday gatherings, consider preparing your chicken a day in advance. You can rub the olive oil and seasonings on the chicken the night before, allowing it to marinate in the fridge. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before roasting for optimal cooking results. Roasted chicken also keeps well—store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for sandwiches or salads later.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, wait until the chicken has cooled completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to preserve its juiciness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it's fully thawed before cooking for even results.

→ What should I serve with the roast chicken?

Traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad work wonderfully.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.