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); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, cut into wedges; 1 bunch fresh rosemary; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; 4 medium carrots, chopped; 3 medium potatoes, cubed; 1 onion, quartered

Highlighted under: Festive Kitchen

I absolutely love preparing a roast chicken for any festive occasion, and this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken recipe truly elevates the experience. The aroma of herbs and citrus fills the kitchen, wrapping everyone in warmth and joy. Each bite of juicy, well-seasoned chicken paired with seasonal sides makes for a delightful meal that brings family and friends together. I can't think of a better way to celebrate the holiday spirit than with this comforting dish that is perfect for sharing.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-26T03:25:34.635Z

Preparing this roast chicken is always a labor of love for me. The combination of garlic, rosemary, and lemon infuses such delightful flavors into the chicken, making it irresistible. I’ve found that letting the bird marinate overnight allows the seasoning to penetrate deeply, ensuring that every bite is packed with zest!

One of my favorite tips is to roast the chicken on a bed of seasonal vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Not only do they soak up the tasty drippings, but they also make for the perfect side dish. This method guarantees a succulent chicken alongside deliciously roasted veggies, making every holiday meal feel special.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy and flavorful chicken that everyone will rave about
Aromatic herbs and citrus create a cozy holiday atmosphere
Perfectly roasted vegetables that complement the main dish

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of herbs in this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken is paramount. Fresh rosemary not only infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor, but its fragrant oils help to elevate the entire dish when combined with the lemon and garlic. If rosemary isn’t available, try thyme or sage for a different yet complimentary flavor profile, although the timing and method of application will remain the same.

It's important to use a whole chicken that weighs around 4-5 lbs for optimal roasting. This allows for even cooking and retains moisture effectively. However, if you prefer a smaller or larger bird, adjust the cooking time accordingly: about 20 minutes per pound at 375°F (190°C). Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer, aiming for that perfect 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.

Perfecting the Roast

Roasting at the right temperature is essential for achieving a beautifully browned chicken. The initial 375°F (190°C) creates a steady heat that will crisp the skin while keeping the meat juicy. Basting halfway through cooking not only adds flavor, but also helps caramelize the skin, resulting in a golden, glossy finish. If the skin starts browning too quickly, cover the chicken loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.

As you prepare to layer your vegetables in the roasting pan, ensure they are cut uniformly. This facilitates even roasting and allows the vegetables to absorb the chicken's drippings, enhancing their flavor. Aim for a mix of root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, as they hold up well to the roasting process and contribute a delightful sweetness. I've found red potatoes work particularly well for their creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delightful holiday roast chicken, and prepare yourself for a meal that will impress your guests!

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, cut into wedges
1 bunch fresh rosemary
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 medium carrots, chopped
3 medium potatoes, cubed
1 onion, quartered

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get to the fun part—cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a succulent and perfectly roasted chicken.

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper, both inside and out. Stuff the cavity with garlic, lemon wedges, and rosemary.

Arrange the Vegetables

In a large roasting pan, place the chopped carrots, potatoes, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Lay the chicken on top of the vegetables.

Roast

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking for extra flavor.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. Serve it with the roasted vegetables for a festive meal.

Enjoy your delicious holiday roast chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy skin, let the chicken sit uncovered in the fridge for a few hours before roasting. This helps dry out the skin a bit for a better roast!

Make-Ahead Tips

This roast chicken can be partially prepared ahead of time. For maximum flavor, season the chicken and stuff it with garlic, lemon, and herbs up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before roasting to bring it to room temperature, which helps it cook more evenly.

The roasted vegetables can also be prepped in advance. Chop them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 48 hours. Toss them with olive oil and seasoning just before adding the chicken on top to ensure they roast well and align with the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly festive touch, serve your roast chicken with a side of homemade gravy using the drippings. To make the gravy, after removing the chicken, deglaze the roasting pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth, scraping up the brown bits. Simmer until slightly thickened, then strain for a smooth texture. This elevates your meal and ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Consider pairing the roast chicken with a crisp salad featuring seasonal ingredients like pomegranate seeds, candied nuts, and mixed greens for a refreshing contrast. A light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken and roasted vegetables beautifully, rounding out your festive meal perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this chicken in advance?

You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Roast it fresh on the day of serving.

→ What can I serve with this roast chicken?

This chicken pairs well with seasonal sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, stuffing, or a fresh green salad.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.

→ Can I use other herbs?

Absolutely! Thyme, sage, or even tarragon would work beautifully with this roast chicken.