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: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 lemon, halved; 1 orange, halved; Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) - a handful each; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 1 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Festive Kitchen Delights

I am always on the lookout for the perfect centerpiece for our holiday meals, and this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken never disappoints. The aroma of herbs and citrus fills the kitchen, making it feel truly special. I love how the skin turns golden brown and crispy, while the meat remains juicy and flavorful. It’s a dish that not only looks gorgeous on the table but also brings family and friends together. Trust me, this roast chicken will become a cherished part of your festive traditions.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:53:35.028Z

Preparing this roast chicken has become a holiday tradition in our home. I start by brining the chicken with salt and herbs, which really helps to infuse flavor and moisture. Every year, I experiment with different citrus fruits, and this time I added lemons and oranges, which gave the chicken a refreshing zest that perfectly complements the savory herbs.

As it roasts, I take a moment to savor the smell wafting through the house. I’ve learned that basting the chicken every 30 minutes really enhances the skin’s crispiness. When serving, I like to carve the bird at the table; it adds a personal touch and makes the meal feel even more special.

Why You'll Love This Roast Chicken
Aromatic blend of fresh herbs and citrus
Juicy meat with crispy, golden skin
Brings family and friends together for special occasions

Essential Cooking Techniques

Achieving the ideal roast chicken involves mastering a few essential techniques. Start by ensuring your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This helps the meat cook evenly. When rubbing the olive oil and seasoning on the skin, don't forget to reach into the cavity as well. This not only enhances flavor but also aids in achieving that coveted crispy skin. My secret? Using a combination of both kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhances the depth of flavor remarkably.

Basting is another key technique that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Every 30 minutes, use a baster or spoon to pour the chicken’s natural juices over the skin. You’ll see the skin turn a rich golden brown, which is a sign that you’re on the right track. Keep an eye on the chicken towards the last 30 minutes; if the skin is browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring the inside continues to cook properly.

Ingredient Roles & Substitutions

The lemon and orange not only add acidity but also keep the chicken moist during roasting. If you don't have these citrus fruits on hand, try using limes or even apples for a slightly different taste. Fresh herbs bring a wonderfully aromatic quality to the dish; however, dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch—just reduce the amount to about one-third since dried herbs are more concentrated.

When it comes to garlic, using whole cloves adds a subtle sweetness as they roast. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider roasting the garlic separately and mixing it into the gravy. Also, if you're eating low-sodium, you can reduce the sea salt significantly or use a salt-free seasoning blend to maintain flavor without compromising on health.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken

Main Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, halved
1 orange, halved
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage) - a handful each
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 cup chicken broth

For Serving

Instructions

Steps to Prepare Holiday Roast Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the skin, then season generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.

Stuff the Chicken

Stuff the cavity with the lemon and orange halves, the garlic cloves, and a handful of fresh herbs. This will infuse the chicken with a wonderful flavor while it cooks.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the pan (this helps to keep the meat moist). Roast the chicken for about 90 minutes, basting it with its juices every 30 minutes.

Check for Doneness

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast. Let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Carving the Chicken

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some white wine to the broth while roasting. This adds depth to the gravy, which can be made by deglazing the pan after the chicken comes out.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This roast chicken is an excellent candidate for make-ahead preparation. You can season the chicken a day in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat more intimately. Just cover it well in the fridge and let it sit overnight. When ready to cook, bring it to room temperature before roasting, which should take about an hour.

Leftover roast chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes to ensure the meat remains juicy. This chicken can also be repurposed into salads, sandwiches, or soups for quick meals throughout the week.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

To elevate your holiday dining experience, serve the roast chicken alongside seasonal sides like roasted root vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes. A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken, making for a healthy accompaniment. For a special touch, consider offering a homemade gravy made from the drippings for additional flavor.

Don’t forget about presentation! Carve the chicken at the table for an interactive experience, or arrange the chicken onto a large platter garnished with additional fresh herbs and sliced citrus. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also encourages guests to participate in the festive meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can season and stuff the chicken the night before and keep it in the fridge overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before roasting.

→ What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are great choices to serve alongside the roast chicken.

→ Can I use other herbs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs, such as parsley, dill, or basil for different flavor profiles.

→ Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Season the chicken as usual, then place it in the slow cooker with broth and herbs and cook on low for 6-8 hours.