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; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, halved; 4 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cups water; 1/4 cup salt; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon peppercorns

Highlighted under: Seasonal Home Favorites

I love preparing a Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken for gatherings and celebrations. The way the aromatic herbs combine with tender, juicy chicken always fills my home with an irresistible inviting scent. The crispy skin and flavorful meat make it a hit at the dinner table, and as I carve into it, I can’t help but feel the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. The side dishes enhance its flavors, making it a complete festive meal that we all cherish and look forward to year after year.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:50:35.627Z

When I first attempted to perfect a holiday roast chicken, I experimented with various marinades and cooking times. I discovered that the key to juicy meat and crispy skin lies in brining the chicken beforehand. This technique not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that every bite is succulent. Using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme really elevates the dish, making it a centerpiece worthy of any holiday gathering.

One memorable occasion was when I made this meal for my family during the last holiday season. I paired the chicken with roasted vegetables, and the combination was delightful. I still remember my dog's excited reaction to the delicious aromas wafting from the oven! Using a meat thermometer helped me achieve the perfect doneness, and I can't emphasize enough how much my loved ones appreciated the effort.

Reasons to Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs create a delightful holiday scent.
Brined chicken guarantees juicy and flavorful meat.
Perfect centerpiece for festive gatherings and celebrations.

The Importance of Brining

Brining the chicken is an optional step, but it significantly enhances the final dish's moisture and flavor. The salt and sugar in the brine penetrate the chicken, allowing it to retain more moisture during cooking. This process not only ensures a juicier bite but also seasons the meat from within, eliminating the need for excessive surface seasoning. If you opt for this step, allow the chicken to brine for 4 to 12 hours for maximum effect.

To prepare your brine, simply combine the ingredients in a pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. The key is to dissolve the salt and sugar completely, so stirring is essential. Once cooled, submerge the chicken fully in the brine solution. If the chicken floats, use a plate to weigh it down, ensuring every part absorbs the brine for an even flavor boost.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs

Fresh herbs play a critical role in crafting the distinctive aroma and taste of the roast chicken. Rosemary and thyme not only contribute a robust flavor but also complement the citrus from the lemon, creating a well-rounded dish. When rubbed under the skin, they infuse the meat with their oils, resulting in an intoxicating experience as it cooks. I recommend using freshly chopped herbs whenever possible, as dried herbs may lack the same intensity of flavor.

If you’re missing rosemary or thyme, consider substituting with sage or oregano for a slightly different yet delightful flavor profile. You can also add a dash of smoked paprika to the mix for a deeper, earthy undertone that pairs beautifully with the crispy skin, especially if you enjoy a hint of smokiness in your roasted meats.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken:

For the Roast Chicken

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

For Brining (Optional)

4 cups water
1/4 cup salt
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon peppercorns

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you are set to create a memorable dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your festive roast chicken:

Prepare the Brine (Optional)

In a large pot, combine water, salt, sugar, and peppercorns. Bring it to a simmer until the salt and sugar are dissolved. Let it cool completely before submerging the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the brine, if using, and pat it dry. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, and season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and onion quarters.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Make sure to let the chicken rest before carving for a juicier result. Using fresh herbs is key to enhancing the flavor profile of this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can all benefit from its rich flavors. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a seasonal roasted vegetable medley. Both the starch and veggies will soak up the delicious juices from the chicken, creating a cohesive and satisfying meal for your guests. For a bright contrast, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette can bring freshness and cut through the richness.

To elevate the dining experience, carve the chicken tableside to create an inviting presentation. Serve with a homemade gravy or pan sauce made from the drippings in the roasting pan to enhance each bite. Drizzling the sauce over your chicken and sides takes the dish to another level and adds that extra touch that makes gatherings feel special.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a larger gathering, you can prep this roast chicken a day in advance. Brine the chicken and, once it's well-seasoned and rested, place it, uncovered, in the refrigerator overnight. This not only helps deepen the flavor but also allows the skin to dry out slightly, resulting in a beautifully crispy texture when roasted. Remember, a thoroughly dried surface aids in achieving that golden, crackly skin everyone loves.

On roast day, simply take it out of the fridge 30 minutes prior to cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking. Prepping your side dishes ahead of time can also streamline your cooking process. You can roast vegetables earlier in the day and reheat them just before serving, providing a stress-free experience when it's time to gather around the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it is completely thawed before brining or roasting.

→ What sides pair well with roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad work wonderfully.

→ Can I substitute dry herbs for fresh ones?

Yes, however, use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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