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 (4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2 lemons, sliced; 1 head of garlic, halved; 1 onion, quartered; Fresh thyme and rosemary (a handful each); Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Holiday Meal Studio

I love preparing a roast chicken for the holidays; it becomes a centerpiece that brings everyone together. The rich, savory aroma fills the house, instantly creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. As I prepare this dish, I focus on using seasonal ingredients, which truly enhances the flavors. Whether it's for a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner, this roast chicken never fails to impress. The crispy skin, tender meat, and delightful herb infusion make this a recipe I cherish and will pass down for generations.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:54:34.507Z

Preparing the Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken has become a cherished tradition in my home, creating fond memories at every family gathering. I remember the first time I attempted to make it; the anticipation in the kitchen was palpable. The secret is in letting the chicken marinate with fresh herbs and citrus, which offers a remarkable depth of flavor.

One tip I learned that transformed my roast chicken is using a combination of butter and olive oil under the skin. This technique not only keeps the meat moist but also creates a crispy, golden skin that is irresistible. I recommend letting the chicken rest before carving to ensure that every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly seasoned with seasonal herbs for deep flavor
Crispy skin that contrasts beautifully with tender meat
Creates a festive centerpiece for any holiday table

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is crucial in achieving flavorful roast chicken. I recommend using a generous amount of salt both inside the cavity and on the skin. This not only enhances the bird's natural flavor but also helps in achieving that coveted crispy skin. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; a good rule of thumb is to use about 1 teaspoon of salt per pound of chicken.

Herbs like thyme and rosemary should be fresh for the most impact. The herbs are not just for flavor; they also infuse the meat with delightful aromatic notes during roasting. When mixing them into the butter, make sure they are finely chopped to distribute evenly beneath the skin, which allows their flavors to penetrate more effectively.

Techniques for Perfect Roasting

Roasting at 425°F (220°C) is key for achieving that perfect golden skin while keeping the meat juicy. The higher initial temperature helps crisp the skin quickly, sealing in moisture. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently; this can cause temperature fluctuation and lead to uneven cooking. Instead, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, targeting 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Basting the chicken every 30 minutes with pan juices can enhance flavor and moisture. This step is particularly important if you prefer a more succulent result. However, if you’re tighter on time, you can skip basting; the seasoning and herb butter will still provide plenty of flavor.

Ingredients

Seasonal Ingredients for Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 lemons, sliced
1 head of garlic, halved
1 onion, quartered
Fresh thyme and rosemary (a handful each)
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients ahead of time to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, and season generously inside and out with salt and pepper.

Add Flavor

In a bowl, mix the softened butter with chopped thyme and rosemary. Gently lift the skin of the chicken and spread the herb butter underneath, ensuring even coverage.

Stuff and Arrange

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon slices, garlic, and onion. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides.

Don't forget to save the drippings for a delicious gravy!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy skin, avoid covering the chicken while it roasts. Basting the chicken with its own juices every 30 minutes can also enhance the flavor and moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find yourself lacking fresh herbs, feel free to use dried thyme and rosemary instead. Generally, a teaspoon of dried herbs will suffice for each tablespoon of fresh called for in the recipe. Additionally, if desired, citrus variations can be used; oranges or limes can replace lemons for a unique flavor profile.

For those looking to reduce butter intake, you can substitute half the butter with olive oil or use a plant-based butter alternative. While it may change the flavor slightly, it maintains moisture in the chicken and still provides a delicious finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare your chicken the night before by seasoning it and storing it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it rests. Just make sure to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before roasting, allowing it to come to room temperature for even cooking.

Leftover roasted chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. For longer storage, consider shredding the meat and freezing it in small portions. This method simplifies future meals, as you can easily add the chicken to soups, salads, or sandwiches.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before for enhanced flavor, just make sure to bring it to room temperature before roasting.

→ What side dishes pair well with roast chicken?

Roast vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a fresh salad are excellent accompaniments to this dish.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

→ Is it okay to use frozen chicken?

It's best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, make sure it's completely thawed before marinating.