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); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage); 1 orange, zested and quartered

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

I absolutely love preparing a Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken for gatherings. The aroma of the herbs and spices fills the kitchen, creating an atmosphere of celebration and warmth. Each bite is tender and juicy, and the skin is crispy, which is exactly how I like it. This dish brings together the flavors of the season with a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it the star of the table. When you present this roast chicken, it truly feels like a festive event every time!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:37:34.999Z

When I first made this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, I wanted to create a dish that would evoke the spirit of the holidays. I experimented with rosemary, thyme, and a hint of orange zest, which transformed a simple roast into something truly special. The result was a beautifully browned chicken with flavors that danced on the palate. I recommend letting the chicken rest before carving, which ensures each slice remains juicy.

Over time, I've learned that using a meat thermometer is essential to achieving perfect doneness. I usually aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, which guarantees that my guests enjoy a succulent and safe meal. The presentation is the icing on the cake—serve it with festive sides and watch everyone gather around the table, eager to indulge!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic herbs paired with seasonal flavors
Perfectly crispy skin that seals in the juices
A centerpiece that impresses at any gathering

      

The Importance of Proper Seasoning

Seasoning plays a crucial role in bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken. The combination of salt, pepper, and minced garlic is not only simple but also elevates the dish by enhancing the chicken's taste profile. Make sure to rub the seasoning under the skin, where it can permeate deeper into the meat, ensuring every bite is flavorful. If you're looking for an extra layer of flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick.

Additionally, using fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage provides aromatic depth that complements the meat perfectly. Each herb has its unique flavor, with rosemary adding a pine-like note, thyme contributing earthiness, and sage offering a warm, slightly peppery flavor. This combination not only seasons the chicken but infuses it with a festive aroma that fills your kitchen.

Achieving Crispy Skin

Getting that perfectly crispy skin is all about moisture control and temperature. Make sure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning; this helps develop a crispy texture. After rubbing it with olive oil, consider letting it sit uncovered in the refrigerator for about an hour. This step can help the skin dry out further, enhancing that golden crispiness when roasted.

Roasting at a steady temperature of 375°F (190°C) allows the skin to cook evenly without burning. Keep an eye on the chicken during the last 20 minutes of cooking; if the skin starts to darken too much, tent it loosely with aluminum foil. This will protect the skin while allowing the meat to continue cooking until it reaches that juicy, tender perfection.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking.

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
1 orange, zested and quartered

Make sure everything is prepped and ready for roasting.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious roast chicken.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows for a consistent cook on the chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season it generously with olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Stuff the cavity with the lemon, onion, and fresh herbs.

Zest and Roast

Zest the orange over the chicken and place the remaining orange pieces in the cavity. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This ensures that the juices redistribute for a moist and flavorful result.

Enjoy your beautifully roasted chicken with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For even deeper flavor, brine the chicken overnight in a saltwater solution. This will keep the chicken juicy and enhance the taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the chicken ahead of time by seasoning it the night before and storing it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier roast. Just remember to take the chicken out of the fridge about 30 minutes before roasting to bring it to room temperature, which promotes even cooking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through. This ensures that the skin retains its crispy texture while keeping the meat juicy.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving the Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, presentation is key. Consider serving it on a large platter, surrounded by roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes. The colorful display not only looks festive but also enhances the meal by providing a well-rounded array of flavors and textures.

Pair the dish with a light, fruity white wine or a medium-bodied red for a delightful complement. A simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette can add freshness and balance to the richness of the roast chicken, creating a harmonious dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ What sides go well with roast chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh salad pair beautifully.

→ How can I know if the chicken is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way; insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and season it the night before, but it's best cooked fresh on the day of serving.