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: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, halved; 1 onion, quartered; 4 carrots, cut into chunks; 4 potatoes, cut into quarters; 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

Highlighted under: Festive Bites

I love making a roast chicken during the holiday season! There’s something so comforting about the aroma of herbs and spices filling the kitchen. This Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken not only impresses my guests but also fills our home with warmth and joy. Using a blend of seasonal ingredients, I’ve created a dish that is both elegant and approachable. Whether it’s a special family gathering or simply a cozy night in, this recipe is my go-to for creating lasting memories around the table.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-26T06:02:35.216Z

Every holiday season, I find myself drawn to the kitchen to make this gorgeous roast chicken. The way the skin becomes golden brown and the flavors meld together is truly magical. I sometimes try experimenting with different herbs, but I always return to my favorite combination of rosemary, thyme, and garlic because of the balance it brings to the dish.

One tip I swear by is to make sure to let the chicken rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to settle, resulting in a moist and tender meat that my family can't resist. I love serving it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables, which always completes the meal beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy, tender meat with a flavorful crispy skin
The delightful fragrance of herbs that fills your home
A show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table

The Perfect Roast Chicken Technique

Achieving a perfectly roasted chicken hinges on proper seasoning and cooking technique. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that your chicken is well-seasoned both inside and out for maximum flavor penetration. After rubbing the herb mix over the skin, consider letting the chicken rest for an hour at room temperature. This allows the seasoning to meld into the meat and results in a more flavorful dish.

When roasting, it's crucial to monitor the internal temperature to avoid drying out the chicken. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is key here. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; once it reaches 165°F (75°C), you know it’s safe to eat. Also, keep an eye on the skin’s color; it should turn golden brown and crisp, indicating it’s cooked perfection.

Enhancing Flavor with Vegetables

The vegetables not only serve as a delicious accompaniment but also enhance the flavor profile of the chicken. As they roast, they caramelize and absorb the drippings from the chicken, adding depth to each bite. For a pop of color and flavor, feel free to add seasonal veggies like parsnips or sweet potatoes, which can be roasted alongside the old favorites like carrots and potatoes.

Don’t forget to season the veggies too! A simple drizzle of olive oil and a touch of salt will elevate their taste. You can even toss them with the same herbs used for the chicken. This method ensures they complement rather than compete with the main dish, resulting in a harmonious symphony of flavors on your holiday table.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Vegetables

4 carrots, cut into chunks
4 potatoes, cut into quarters
1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, inside and out.

Add Lemon and Onions

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon halves and quartered onion.

Arrange Vegetables

In a large roasting pan, arrange the carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts around the chicken. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt.

Roast

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

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight with the herb mixture. This will enhance the flavors even more.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning a large gathering, you can prepare certain elements of this roast chicken dish in advance. The herb and oil rub can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. After applying it to the chicken, let it sit uncovered to air-dry in the refrigerator. This creates a crispier skin as it roasts, enhancing both flavor and texture.

You can also chop the vegetables a day or two in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to drizzle them with a bit of olive oil and salt right before roasting to ensure they roast properly.

Leftover Magic

Roast chicken leftovers can be repurposed in delightful ways. Shredded chicken can be added to salads, sandwiches, or used in soups to create a quick and satisfying meal. I find that a quick stir-fry with leftover veggies and some rice can also be a delightful post-holiday treat, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded meat; it can last up to three months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator the night before you wish to use it, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chicken?

Yes, you can use larger or smaller chickens, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used, but remember to use less as they are more concentrated in flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the chicken and vegetables the night before, just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to roast.