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: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and halved; 1 onion, quartered; 1 cup fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 4 large carrots, chopped; 3 parsnips, chopped; 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Traditions

I absolutely love preparing a roast chicken for the holidays! There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching it turn golden brown in the oven while the rich aromas fill my kitchen. This recipe has become a favorite among my friends and family, especially when paired with seasonal veggies and aromatic herbs. With just a few hours of hands-on time, this dish transforms into a centerpiece for any festive gathering. I can’t wait to share the magic of this roast chicken with you!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:01:34.238Z

One of my favorite memories is gathering around the dinner table during the holidays, with everyone eagerly awaiting the first slice of roast chicken. I’ve experimented with various seasoning blends over the years, but the combination of fresh herbs and citrus truly elevates this dish. I also discovered that starting the chicken at a high heat helps achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.

To truly enhance flavor, I recommend marinating the chicken overnight. This allows the herbs and spices to penetrate deeply, making every bite a burst of flavor. Additionally, I like to toss some seasonal vegetables around the chicken toward the end of the cooking time for a complete meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of herbs with citrus for a festive twist
Juicy, tender meat with crispy skin
Impressive presentation for holiday gatherings

The Importance of Herb Selection

Selecting fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your roast chicken. Rosemary, thyme, and parsley are particularly wonderful choices for this dish, adding warmth and depth. Fresh herbs provide a bright, aromatic quality that dried herbs simply cannot match. If you can't find fresh herbs, you may substitute dried ones, but reduce the quantity by about a third since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

A quick tip: bruising the herbs before using them will release their oils and intensify their flavor. You can do this by gently crushing them with the back of a spoon or finely chopping them just before use. This small step can elevate your chicken's flavor, making it even more aromatic as it roasts.

Perfecting the Roast

The key to achieving a beautifully roasted chicken lies in proper temperature management. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) ensures that the skin begins to crisp up right away, sealing in the juices. If your chicken isn't browning after about 45 minutes, you can tent it with foil to prevent overcooking while allowing it to continue cooking through. This can help achieve that golden-brown skin without drying out the meat.

Additionally, using a roasting pan with a rack can ensure even cooking. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, cooking it thoroughly. If you don't have a roasting pan, a sturdy baking sheet lined with parchment paper works too. Just make sure to flip the vegetables halfway through cooking for even flavor absorption and caramelization.

Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and halved
1 onion, quartered
1 cup fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chicken broth

For the Vegetables

4 large carrots, chopped
3 parsnips, chopped
2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

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, and then stuff it with the quartered onion, lemon halves, and a handful of fresh herbs.

Season and Roast

Rub olive oil all over the chicken and sprinkle it generously with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken on a roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the pan and surround the chicken with chopped vegetables, ensuring they’re coated with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm with the roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding some white wine or apple cider to the roasting pan. This adds depth to the gravy. Always let the chicken rest before carving for juicier meat.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

After your festive gathering, any leftover roast chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. If you'd like to store your chicken for a longer period, consider freezing it. Cut the meat off the bone, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and place it in a freezer-safe bag; it can last up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can do this in the oven for a few minutes or use a microwave for quicker results. Consider adding a splash of chicken broth or a pat of butter to keep it moist during reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This roast chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic approach, serve it with mashed potatoes, gravy, and steamed green beans. Alternatively, consider a festive grain salad made with quinoa, cranberries, and toasted nuts for a seasonal twist. These options not only complement the flavors of the roast but also add visual appeal to your holiday table.

If you're looking to impress your guests further, a citrus-based sauce or gravy made from the drippings can enhance the dish's flavor. You can deglaze the roasting pan with white wine or additional chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits before reducing it on the stovetop. This homemade sauce will tie your entire meal together beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this roast chicken in advance?

Yes, you can marinate it overnight and roast it the next day.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

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

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

It's best to thaw the chicken completely before roasting for even cooking.

→ What sides go well with roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement the chicken beautifully.