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 (about 4-5 lbs); 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 2 teaspoons dried rosemary; 1 head of garlic, halved; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; Fresh herbs for garnish (thyme, rosemary); Cranberry sauce for serving; Roasted vegetables as side dish

Highlighted under: Holiday Delights

I always look forward to the holidays, and this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken has become a staple in my celebrations. The aroma of the herbs and spices fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each bite is tender and juicy, bursting with flavors that remind me of cherished family gatherings. I love how simple it is to prepare, yet it impressively steals the spotlight on the dining table. Sharing this golden roast chicken with loved ones truly embodies the spirit of the season.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:25:34.463Z

When I first made this roast chicken, I experimented with seasonal herbs and spices I had on hand, and it turned out even better than I expected. The blend of thyme, rosemary, and garlic creates a flavor profile that beautifully complements the juicy chicken, making each bite a delight. I learned that letting the chicken rest after roasting is crucial for maintaining its tenderness and juicy texture, ensuring every cut is as delicious as the last.

During the holidays, I often pair this chicken with sides like roasted root vegetables and cranberry sauce. The contrast of the savory chicken with the sweetness of the cranberries is simply divine. I also recommend basting the chicken with its juices halfway through roasting; this enhances the flavor and richness, resulting in a stunning golden crust that you can't resist.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Herb-infused, juicy chicken that brings holiday cheer
Beautifully crispy skin that seals in the flavor
Easily customizable with your favorite seasonal herbs

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial to achieving the flavorful depth this roast chicken offers. Using high-quality salt helps to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken while also ensuring the meat is well-seasoned throughout. I recommend using kosher salt for the best results, as it’s easier to control the amount you use. Don’t shy away from getting a good amount under the skin; this is where much of the flavor is absorbed as the chicken cooks.

Herbs like thyme and rosemary not only season the chicken but also provide a wonderful fragrance during roasting. Each herb brings its unique character; thyme offers an earthy taste while rosemary adds a pine-like, aromatic depth. Fresh herbs can be substituted if you have them on hand, with a general rule of thumb being to use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

Getting the Perfect Roast

Roasting at the right temperature is essential for achieving crispy skin and juicy meat. Setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) allows for a steady roast without drying out the chicken. If you want crispy, golden skin, consider starting at a higher temperature for the first 20–30 minutes, then reduce it to allow the meat to cook through without burning.

Basting the chicken with its own juices a couple of times during cooking can also promote browned, crispy skin. If you notice the skin beginning to darken too quickly, tent the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the meat finishes cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving this roast chicken with seasonal sides can elevate your meal. Consider pairing it with roasted root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, which can be tossed in the same herbs used for the chicken, creating a harmonious flavor profile. For a festive touch, a side of cranberry sauce not only adds color but offers a tangy contrast to the savory chicken.

If you have leftovers, this roast chicken can be repurposed in salads or sandwiches, or even transformed into a savory chicken pot pie. The flavor will only improve as it rests, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for busy holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather these wonderful ingredients to create the perfect holiday roast chicken:

Main Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
1 head of garlic, halved
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered

Optional Garnishes

Fresh herbs for garnish (thyme, rosemary)
Cranberry sauce for serving
Roasted vegetables as side dish

Make sure to have everything ready before getting started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious holiday roast chicken:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful crust.

Prepare the Chicken

Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and rinse the chicken under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

Season with Oil and Herbs

Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Make sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.

Stuff the Cavity

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with garlic, lemon, and onion. This will infuse the meat with additional flavors as it roasts.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Let it Rest

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Serve the chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy your festive feast!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight with your favorite herbs and spices. This adds depth and ensures juiciness.

Storage and Reheating

After carving your roast chicken, be sure to store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Properly stored, roast chicken can last for about 3-4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 4 months. Make sure to label containers with the date for easy reference.

When reheating, aim for a gentle approach to maintain moisture. You can reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave at medium power, checking frequently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Troubleshooting Tip

If you find that your chicken has cooked through but the skin isn't as crispy as you'd like, a quick fix is to place it under the broiler for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; it usually requires only 3–5 minutes to achieve that desired golden crispiness.

On the other hand, if your chicken is browning too quickly while still undercooked, consider lowering the oven temperature slightly or covering it loosely with foil to protect the skin while allowing the meat to finish cooking evenly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to thaw the chicken completely before roasting. This ensures even cooking and prevents any food safety issues.

→ What side dishes pair well with roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce are excellent companions that complement the chicken beautifully.

→ Can I make this roast chicken in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can roast the chicken a day before and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) before serving.

→ What should I do with leftovers?

Leftover roast chicken is perfect for salads, sandwiches, or using in soups. Just refrigerate in an airtight container.