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 (about 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, halved; 1 orange, halved; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 carrots, diced; 2 onions, quartered; 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Festive Dish Collection

I love preparing a seasonal and festive roast chicken; it brings warmth and joy to our holiday gatherings. The aroma of herbs and citrus wafts through the house as the chicken roasts, creating a comforting atmosphere. This recipe is simple yet impressive, featuring a perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients that elevate the dish. It's wonderful how roasting a whole chicken can seem extravagant, yet it’s an accessible way to serve a delicious meal for family and friends, making every festive occasion memorable.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:01:34.738Z

When I first made this holiday roast chicken, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients came together to create something truly special. Using fresh herbs and a touch of citrus not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

The next time I make it, I'm definitely going to try adding different seasonal vegetables to the roasting pan. They soak up the chicken’s juices and make for a delightful side dish. Roasting everything together not only saves time but adds a beautiful presentation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of herbs that transforms your kitchen into a festive haven
Juicy, tender chicken with a crispy skin that's hard to resist
An impressive dish perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions

The Importance of Proper Seasoning

Seasoning the chicken thoroughly is essential for achieving a flavorful roast. The salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, while the pepper adds a subtle heat. I recommend seasoning both the skin and the cavity to immerse the whole chicken in flavor. Don’t be shy about using fresh herbs; rosemary and thyme not only contribute aroma but also infuse the meat with vibrant flavors as it cooks, making every bite delightful.

The olive oil is not just a cooking medium; it forms a beautiful golden crust and prevents the chicken from drying out. Make sure to coat it evenly, giving special attention to the crevices. If you want to introduce a hint of sweetness, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the olive oil mixture. This will enhance the caramelization of the skin during the roasting process.

Roasting Techniques for Perfection

Using a roasting rack elevates the chicken, allowing hot air to circulate evenly. This ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly and prevents steam from making the skin soggy. If you don't have a rack, you can create a makeshift one using crumpled aluminum foil balls. This simple tool will keep the chicken suspended above the vegetables, contributing to that crispy skin you're after.

Monitor the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer; this is the most reliable indicator of doneness. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone—you’re aiming for 165°F (74°C). If the skin is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 20–30 minutes of roasting. This balances cooking time while maintaining the skin's crunchy texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Vegetables

4 carrots, diced
2 onions, quartered
1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon and orange halves, minced garlic, and fresh herbs.

Roasting the Chicken

Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Arrange the diced carrots, onions, and Brussels sprouts around the chicken. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables for a beautiful holiday meal.

Pro Tips

For a flavor boost, brine the chicken a day in advance or add a splash of wine to the vegetable mix during roasting for extra depth.

Vegetable Pairing

The mix of carrots, onions, and Brussels sprouts complements the roast chicken beautifully, soaking up the savory juices. For a twist, you could experiment with other seasonal vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. Just remember that different veggies may have varying cooking times, so cut them into uniform pieces to ensure they roast evenly alongside the chicken.

Toss the vegetables in the olive oil and seasoning before roasting, as this enhances their flavors and promotes caramelization. Watching closely, you want them to turn tender and develop golden edges. If you notice they are cooking faster than the chicken, simply remove them from the pan and cover them in foil until the chicken is ready.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, consider shredding the leftover meat and freezing it. This way, it's ready to be repurposed into soups, salads, or sandwiches down the line—a great way to reduce food waste.

When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying out the meat. Use the oven at a low temperature (around 325°F or 160°C) until heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth before covering with foil to keep it moist. This method ensures that your festive roast chicken remains juicy and enjoyable, even days later.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it is fully defrosted before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.

→ What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs; use about one-third of the amount.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it's best fresh, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day ahead; roast it on the day of serving.