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; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon dried rosemary; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, quartered; 2 cups baby carrots; 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved; 1 onion, quartered; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Celebrations

I absolutely love hosting family gatherings, and what better centerpiece for a festive meal than a beautifully roasted chicken? Every time I make this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, the aromas fill the kitchen, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The blend of herbs and spices paired with seasonal vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds a wonderful visual aspect to the table. It's become a tradition in my home, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary celebrations that everyone looks forward to each year.

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:05:34.957Z

During the holidays each year, I experiment with different flavors and techniques, and this roast chicken is a favorite among family and friends. I've learned that letting the chicken sit at room temperature before roasting allows for more even cooking and a juicier end product. It’s those little details that can truly elevate the dish.

One tip I can share is to baste the chicken halfway through cooking; it creates a beautiful golden skin and locks in moisture. Using a combination of lemon and fresh herbs really brightens the flavors, making every bite a celebration of seasonal tastes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of seasonal herbs enhancing the chicken's flavor
Juicy, tender meat complemented by crispy skin
Beautiful presentation, perfect for holiday gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of herbs in this roast chicken recipe plays a pivotal role in flavor development. Thyme and rosemary are classic partners, with their earthy, aromatic profiles enhancing the chicken's natural richness. Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried, but you'll need to increase the quantity—use approximately three times as much. Fresh herbs release their oils more efficiently, resulting in a more vibrant flavor, especially when rubbed directly onto the skin.

When it comes to selecting your chicken, freshness is key. Look for birds that are organic or free-range, as they typically have better flavor and texture. Finding a chicken that’s around 4-5 lbs is ideal to ensure even cooking; too large might result in uneven doneness, while too small may dry out during roasting. I find that roasting a whole chicken not only elevates the presentation but also allows for delicious leftovers.

Perfecting the Roasting Technique

Basting the chicken halfway through the cooking process is essential for achieving that desirable crispy skin and juicy meat. As it roasts, the skin will start to brown and develop a beautiful golden hue. I usually take a baster or a spoon to drizzle the pan juices over the chicken, which helps maintain moisture and deepen the flavor. If your chicken starts to darken too quickly, you can tent it lightly with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Using a probe thermometer is a foolproof way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly. You should aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for clear juices running when you pierce the thigh meat; if they run pink, the chicken needs more time. Remember that after cooking, letting the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in tender meat.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, quartered

For the Vegetables

2 cups baby carrots
2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
1 onion, quartered
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.

Season the Chicken

Rub olive oil over the chicken, then season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and minced garlic. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a bowl, toss the baby carrots, Brussels sprouts, and onion with balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Arrange the vegetables around the chicken in the roasting pan.

Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, basting it once halfway through with pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the roast chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or sage inside the cavity before roasting. This will further infuse the chicken with a delightful aroma.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic options such as mashed potatoes or a vibrant cranberry sauce add a pop of color to your table. For a twist, consider serving it with a wild rice salad or roasted garlic mashed cauliflower, which complements the savory notes of the chicken. Don't hesitate to incorporate a seasonal salad for a fresh contrast.

Leftover roast chicken can be repurposed in so many ways, from sandwiches to soups. I like to chop the meat and toss it in a salad or use it in a creamy chicken pot pie. Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months for a quick meal later on.

Seasonal Variations

To switch up the flavor profile of this dish, consider incorporating seasonal fruits into your roasting pan. Apples or pears, when quartered, can provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken. Simply add them alongside the onion and veggies about 30 minutes before the end of the roasting time to ensure they don’t overcook and turn mushy.

You can also play around with the vegetables. Root vegetables such as parsnips or sweet potatoes not only add heartiness but also absorb the delicious drippings from the chicken. Be sure to cut them to a similar size to ensure even cooking. Adjust the seasoning accordingly based on the veggies you choose to maintain a balanced flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can season the chicken a day before and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper.

→ What should I serve with this roast chicken?

Side dishes like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or a fresh salad pair perfectly with roast chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use a different type of bird?

Absolutely! This method works well with turkeys or even game hens. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.