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: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, crushed; Fresh rosemary (a small bunch); Fresh thyme (a small bunch); Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken broth; Pan drippings from the roast chicken

Highlighted under: Seasonal Specialties

I absolutely adore making roast chicken for the holidays. Each time I prepare this dish, I get excited thinking about the rich aromas that fill my kitchen. The combination of seasonal herbs and citrus really brings the chicken to life, making it tender and juicy. I love serving it with a variety of colorful sides that complement its flavors. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a cherished part of your festive traditions. The perfect centerpiece for any holiday table, this roast chicken is a true crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:05:34.099Z

When I started perfecting my holiday roast chicken recipe, I focused on creating a blend of flavors that spoke to the season. After several tries, I discovered that a mixture of rosemary, thyme, and citrus not only tastes amazing but makes the kitchen smell divine as well. I've found that letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures that every bite is juicy and full of flavor.

Additionally, using a high-quality chicken is a game-changer. Locally sourced or organic chickens have a different flavor profile that elevates this dish. Don't skip the step of basting the chicken in its own juices; it adds so much to the final result!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs and citrus create an unforgettable flavor profile
Perfectly crisp skin that locks in moisture for juicy meat
A stunning centerpiece that impresses guests and family alike

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of herbs can dramatically affect the flavor of your roast chicken. In this recipe, fresh rosemary and thyme bring aromatic notes that elevate the dish. If fresh herbs aren't available, using dried herbs is a valid substitute; however, remember to adjust the quantity since dried herbs are more potent. Typically, you’ll need about one-third of the amount listed in fresh herbs.

Citrus plays a vital role in infusing moisture and flavor into the chicken. The lemon not only adds zing but also helps to break down proteins, making the meat tender. If you prefer a different flavor profile, experimenting with oranges or limes can provide a delightful twist that pairs well with poultry.

Perfecting the Roast

Maintaining an even oven temperature is crucial for achieving a perfectly roasted chicken. If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the chicken halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Look for the skin to become golden and crispy; this visual cue indicates that the fat is rendering and moisture is being locked in, ensuring juicy meat.

Resting the chicken after roasting is an essential step that many overlook. Allowing the chicken to rest for at least 15 minutes before carving allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from pouring out when you slice into it. Covering the chicken loosely with foil during this time helps retain heat without steaming the skin.

Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, crushed
Fresh rosemary (a small bunch)
Fresh thyme (a small bunch)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
Pan drippings from the roast chicken

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan. Rub olive oil all over the skin and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges, onion, garlic, and herbs.

Roast the Chicken

Place the roasting pan in the oven and roast for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken every 30 minutes with its juices.

Make the Gravy

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and let it rest. In the same pan, place it on the stove over medium heat. Sprinkle flour and stir for a minute, then slowly whisk in chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce until thickened.

Serve

Carve the chicken and serve it with the gravy. Enjoy the festive meal with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with the herbs and citrus. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the chicken isn't browning as expected, consider increasing the oven temperature for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This can help achieve that desired golden brown color. Another reason for inadequate browning could be that the skin was too wet before roasting; patting it dry thoroughly can make a significant difference.

In case the chicken is cooked through yet the skin isn't as crispy as you'd like, broiling it for a few minutes can enhance the texture. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning—broiling is a quick process that can easily turn the crispy skin into charred remnants.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftover roast chicken, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken pieces—make sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.

When reheating, avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can result in dry meat. Instead, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the chicken loosely with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through; this method can help maintain the crispness of the skin.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even cooking results.

→ What sides go well with roast chicken?

Seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce make great pairings.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

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

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can roast the chicken a few hours in advance and keep it warm until serving.