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 (4-5 pounds); 2 lemons, zested and cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavors

When I think about holiday meals, the idea of a roasted chicken brings a smile to my face. There’s something magical about the aroma filling the home as it cooks, and the anticipation of gathering around the table with loved ones. This recipe combines seasonal herbs and citrus to create a deliciously fragrant roast that's perfect for any festive occasion. I love that it’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough to be the star of the holiday table, making it a staple in our family celebrations.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:33:34.397Z

Last holiday season, I tried a new method of roasting chicken that took my family’s traditional recipe to the next level. I marinated the chicken with fresh herbs and citrus overnight, which infused incredible flavors throughout the meat. The high-heat roasting technique I discovered not only crisps the skin to perfection but also ensures the meat remains juicy and flavorful. I'm excited to share this delicious twist!

What I found fascinating was how the combination of rosemary, thyme, and lemon elevated the entire dish. As it roasted, the herbs created a fragrant steam that filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in with anticipation. Serve it with seasonal sides, and you’ve got a meal that will leave your guests raving for weeks!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs bring a warm, festive spirit to the dish
Perfectly crispy skin that locks in moisture
An effortlessly impressive centerpiece for your holiday feast

The Role of Herbs

Using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme elevates the flavor profile of your roast chicken. Not only do they infuse the meat with their aromatic essence, but they also contribute to the savory crust that forms during roasting. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried versions can work in a pinch—just use about a third of the amount, as their flavors are more concentrated.

The key to maximizing the herb’s potential lies in properly incorporating them. Rub the herb mixture under the skin rather than just on the surface. This technique allows the oils and flavors to permeate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful roast. Ensure that you use a gentle hand to avoid tearing the skin; you want to create pockets for the herb mixture.

Perfecting the Roast

The two-step roasting method in this recipe is critical for achieving that perfectly crispy skin. Starting at a high temperature of 450°F sears the skin, locking in juices and creating a golden-brown exterior. After the initial hour, lowering the heat to 375°F allows the chicken to cook through gently while maintaining moisture. Using a meat thermometer can be a game-changer here; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal doneness.

While the chicken is roasting, basting every 20 minutes keeps the skin moist and enhances flavor. The combination of chicken broth and melted butter works wonders to achieve a glossy, golden finish. If you notice that the skin is browning too quickly, you can tent the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
2 lemons, zested and cut into wedges
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Basting

½ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Prepare all ingredients before starting for an easier cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the skin, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges and garlic.

Marinate

In a small bowl, combine the rosemary, thyme, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture under the skin and over the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the chicken on a roasting pan with a rack.

Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken for 1 hour, basting with chicken broth and melted butter every 20 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for another 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Enjoy it with your favorite festive sides!

Make sure to save the drippings for a delicious gravy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs to the cavity of the chicken. You can also try different citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a unique taste.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the meat from drying out, consider slicing the chicken before storing it, as this exposes more surface area for any moisture to cling to. You can also freeze the meat in portions; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months.

When reheating, gentle heat is essential. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), add a splash of chicken broth to the dish, and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat until warmed through, about 20–25 minutes, depending on how much chicken you're reheating. If you prefer, you can also reheat in the microwave, but keep the intervals short to prevent overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your roast chicken with a variety of festive sides to create a balanced meal. Consider classic accompaniments like roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a tart cranberry sauce to cut through the richness. These sides not only complement the dish but also add a splash of color to your table presentation.

For a refreshing twist, a citrus salad with mixed greens, sliced oranges, and a light vinaigrette can provide a bright contrast to the savory chicken. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the pan, ensuring that no flavor goes to waste. Don’t forget to garnish the chicken with additional herbs or lemon wedges for that festive touch!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen chicken?

Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and roasting.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement the dish beautifully.

→ How can I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

→ Can I prepare this chicken a day ahead?

You can marinate the chicken the night before and roast it on the day you plan to serve it for optimal flavor.