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); 1 lemon, zested and quartered; 1 orange, zested and quartered; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups chicken broth for the roasting pan

Highlighted under: Holiday Flavor Classics

When the holidays come around, I look forward to making my Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken. The moment I start preparing the ingredients, the warm and inviting aroma fills my kitchen, instantly putting me in a festive mood. This dish brings together a medley of fresh herbs, citrus zest, and garlic, creating a delightful flavor profile that my family adores. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that makes our gatherings more special. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:41:34.792Z

Preparing my Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken has become a cherished tradition. Each time I make it, I experiment a little with the spices and herbs, ensuring it reflects my family’s favorite flavors. The secret is the marinade; a blend of lemon juice, thyme, and rosemary really elevates the chicken’s taste. It’s a great way to make an ordinary dish extraordinary!

On one occasion, I tried cooking it with a stuffing of garlic and citrus fruits, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. The melding of flavors created a juicy, tender chicken that kept my guests asking for seconds. This roast chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a simple salad, making it a versatile centerpiece for any festive gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy, golden skin that seals in the juicy flavor
Aromatic herbs and citrus that brighten the dish
Perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting a chicken for your Roast Chicken recipe, aim for one that weighs between 4 to 5 pounds. This size allows for even cooking and ensures that the meat stays juicy and tender. Ranch-raised or organic options are great choices as they typically have better flavor and texture. If you're looking for an even richer taste, consider using a heritage breed chicken, which often has more marbled fat and robust flavor profiles, making your dish even more special during the holidays.

Remember to check the chicken’s freshness by looking for a bright pink color with no off smells. If you spot any bruises or discoloration, it's best to choose another one. Also, if time permits, you can brine the chicken overnight in a saltwater solution. This not only enhances flavor but also keeps the meat juicy throughout the roasting process.

The Importance of Aromatics

The combination of citrus and garlic in this recipe does more than just enhance flavor; it also adds depth and complexity to the dish. The acidity from the lemon and orange zests helps tenderize the meat, while the garlic infuses the chicken with a rich aroma as it roasts. I highly recommend not skipping the fresh herbs. Thyme and rosemary are traditional choices that perfectly complement the earthy flavors of the chicken and the brightness of the citrus.

If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried herbs can be substituted, but use about a third of the quantity, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. You might want to slightly crush the dried herbs before using them to release their essential oils and enhance fragrance. As a variation, you can add other fresh herbs like sage or parsley to experiment with different flavor notes.

Serving and Leftover Ideas

This Roast Chicken is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Serve it alongside classic sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. For an extra colorful presentation, garnish the platter with fresh herbs and citrus slices used in the stuffing. To elevate the dish further, consider drizzling a honey-mustard glaze over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of roasting for a sweet and tangy finish.

If you have leftovers, they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The chicken can be repurposed in various dishes like salads, sandwiches, or soups. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This is a festive way to make the most out of your holiday cooking!

Ingredients

Fresh herbs and spices
High-quality chicken
Citrus fruits for zest and flavor

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
1 lemon, zested and quartered
1 orange, zested and quartered
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups chicken broth for the roasting pan

Make sure to use high-quality, fresh ingredients
Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect roast every time!

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken giblets and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Massage this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for enhanced flavor.

Stuff and Roast

Stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon and orange quarters. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth into the pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender roast.

Pair with sides of your choice for a complete holiday feast!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy skin, consider broiling the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Additionally, basting the chicken with the broth every 30 minutes keeps it juicy.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Roasting

Achieving a crispy skin on your roast chicken relies heavily on starting with a dry chicken. Patting it down with paper towels removes excess moisture that could steam the skin rather than crisp it. During roasting, if you notice the skin browning too quickly, tent the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.

Another key factor is ensuring even cooking temperatures. A good practice is to take the chicken out of the refrigerator an hour before roasting to allow it to come to room temperature. This reduces cooking time and helps the chicken cook more evenly. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer placed in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking for more flavor variations, consider incorporating different citrus fruits such as lime or grapefruit. These alternatives offer unique taste profiles that can brighten your chicken while still providing the necessary acidity. Additionally, if you're out of rosemary or thyme, you can swap in other herbs like oregano or tarragon for a different spin that retains the aromatic essence of the dish.

For those looking to reduce fat, you could use skinless chicken parts, although this will give you a much different texture, and you may need to adjust cooking times. Alternatively, try marinating chicken parts in the herb and oil mixture for at least an hour before roasting to infuse flavor without the skin’s fat.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

To save time on a busy holiday cooking day, you can prep your chicken the day before. Rub the lemon and herb mixture all over the chicken, cover it, and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This not only gives time for the flavors to penetrate but also reduces the workload on the day of your event, making it more enjoyable to host your guests.

If you end up with more chicken than you can eat, you can freeze the leftovers. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and roast briefly to re-crisp the skin, or shred the meat for use in other dishes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use a thawed chicken for even cooking, but if you're in a pinch, you can roast it from frozen, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ What sides pair well with roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a fresh green salad are great accompaniments.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Is it necessary to truss the chicken?

Trussing helps the chicken cook evenly, but it's not absolutely necessary. Just ensure the legs are tucked in for even heat circulation.