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); 4 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; 4 garlic cloves, smashed; 4 large carrots, cut into chunks; 2 parsnips, cut into chunks; 1 pound baby potatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Seasonal Feast Favorites

I absolutely adore making roast chicken during the festive season. There's something magical about the aroma that fills the house, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family and friends. This recipe is filled with seasonal herbs and spices that not only elevates the chicken but goes perfectly with seasonal sides. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner, this roast chicken will be the star of the table. Trust me, once you try it, you'll make it a holiday tradition!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:49:34.595Z

When I first made this holiday roast chicken, it became an instant hit with my loved ones. The way the flavors meld together while roasting is pure culinary magic. I remember experimenting with fresh rosemary and thyme from my garden, and the subsequent taste was so vibrant and delicious it left everyone asking for seconds!

One tip I have is to let the chicken rest after roasting. This step ensures the juices redistribute, making each bite succulent. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a vibrant salad, and you've got a beautiful meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs enhance the flavor beautifully.
Golden, crispy skin that’s irresistible.
Perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings.

Choosing the Perfect Chicken

When selecting a chicken for roasting, opt for a high-quality, organic bird if possible. The flavor and juiciness of the meat is significantly enhanced with a pasture-raised, free-range chicken compared to conventionally raised ones. Look for one that has a plump breast and firm, yellow skin. These indicators generally suggest a fresher product.

Additionally, consider the size of the chicken in relation to your gathering. A 4-5 pound chicken serves about four to six people, making it a great size for a family meal or intimate gathering. If you have a larger group, scaling up to two smaller chickens instead of one large can ensure more even cooking and allow for a varied presentation.

Mastering the Roast

Basting the chicken every 30 minutes is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown skin. Use a baster to collect the juices at the bottom of the pan and gently drizzle them over the chicken. This not only keeps the skin moist but also adds layers of flavor as the fat and drippings mix with the spices.

After the chicken is done roasting, it's vital to let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each slice succulent. While resting, you could tent the chicken loosely with foil to keep it warm without steaming the skin.

Vegetable Variations

The roasted vegetables are customizable based on what's seasonal or available. Sweet potatoes, turnips, or Brussels sprouts can easily replace the carrots and parsnips for a twist on texture and flavor. Just ensure the vegetables are all cut to a uniform size for even cooking – about an inch thick works well.

If you're looking to add an earthy element to the vegetables, consider tossing them with a bit of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before roasting. These additions will complement the savory notes of the chicken beautifully, giving your holiday meal an extra flavor dimension.

Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
4 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, smashed

For the Roasted Vegetables

4 large carrots, cut into chunks
2 parsnips, cut into chunks
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a large roasting pan. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, then season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, garlic, and herbs.

Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with the juices every 30 minutes for a beautifully crisp skin.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a separate bowl, toss the carrots, parsnips, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add them to the roasting pan during the last 30 minutes of cooking, ensuring they soak up the delicious chicken drippings.

Let it Rest

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This will help keep the meat juicy.

Carving the chicken properly is essential for serving.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the roasting pan during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Storage Tips

Leftover roasted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This allows for versatile meal options such as salads, sandwiches, or added to soups. Just make sure to separate the meat from the bones for best storage practices.

If you have leftover vegetables, they can be kept alongside the chicken for up to three days. Reheating can be done in the oven at a low temperature, around 350°F (175°C), ensuring they regain some of their crispness. A splash of olive oil before reheating helps enhance their flavor again.

Serving Suggestions

This roast chicken makes a stunning center point for any holiday table. Pair it with seasonal sides like cranberry sauce or a winter salad with pomegranate seeds for contrast. Freshly baked bread or cornbread can also be a delightful addition to soak up any remaining juices.

For a special occasion, consider serving the chicken with a light gravy made from the pan drippings. Simply strain the drippings into a saucepan, whisk in some flour to thicken, and serve alongside. This will elevate the dish further and make for a memorable dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance and roast it on the day of your gathering.

→ What sides pair well with this roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use fresh or completely thawed chicken for even cooking but if frozen, ensure it's fully thawed before preparation.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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