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 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 lemon, halved; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; Fresh thyme sprigs; Fresh rosemary sprigs; 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks; 2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks; 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Celebration Flavors

I love preparing a Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken during the holiday season. The aroma of the herbs filling the kitchen while the chicken roasts is truly magical, and the crispy skin paired with juicy meat makes it a centerpiece worth celebrating. This dish brings together festive flavors that not only nourish the body but also warm the heart. I can't help but smile as I gather around the table with my loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over a meal that we've savored together.

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:05:34.829Z

As I prepared this roast chicken for our holiday gathering, I was reminded of my grandmother’s secret herb blend that always added an extra layer of warmth to the dish. I decided to try it out for myself and the results were astonishing. The combination of thyme, rosemary, and a hint of garlic brought forth flavors that transported me back to those cherished family dinners.

One trick I learned is to let the chicken rest before carving. Allowing it to sit for about 10 minutes ensures that all the juices settle, leaving you with tender, moist meat. Servicing this savory delight alongside roasted seasonal vegetables creates a truly festive plate that we eagerly dive into each season.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of herbs that fills the home with festive cheer
Perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat that everyone will rave about
Creates wonderful memories when shared with family and friends

Perfecting Your Roast

One key to achieving that perfect roast chicken is in the preparation. Make sure the chicken is completely dry before you start seasoning. This will help the skin become golden and crispy during roasting. Use paper towels to pat it down thoroughly, especially around the cavity, where moisture can linger. A dry bird helps in achieving a beautifully roasted skin, which is the hallmark of a great roast chicken.

When seasoning, don't be shy with the salt and pepper. This is your chance to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor. A generous sprinkle over the entire surface and inside the cavity creates a savory crust while roasting. You can also consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for an additional flavor depth and color. Keep an eye on the skin; it should sizzle and bubble while cooking, indicating that it’s crisping up nicely.

Vegetable Pairing Tips

The seasonal vegetables you choose elevate this dish, making it vibrant and nourishing. Carrots and parsnips add sweetness, while Brussels sprouts introduce a nice texture and slight bitterness that balances the rich flavor of the roast chicken. You can substitute the Brussels sprouts for another favorite vegetable like sweet potatoes or squash if needed, ensuring they are cut to a similar size for even cooking.

Toss your vegetables with olive oil and seasonings just before placing them in the oven. This step not only brings out their natural flavors but also allows them to roast evenly until tender and caramelized, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them and stir midway through to avoid over-browning and ensure they are coated nicely. They should emerge from the oven with a slight char and a robust flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to prepare this delightful roast chicken.

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 lemon, halved
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
Fresh thyme sprigs
Fresh rosemary sprigs

For the Seasonal Vegetables

4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks
1 pound of Brussels sprouts, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your festive roast chicken and vegetables.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your ingredients.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the outside with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, onion, garlic, and a handful of thyme and rosemary.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a bowl, combine the carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting pan breast side up, surrounded by the vegetables. Roast in the oven for about 90 minutes, or until the temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Savor the seasonal flavors of your homemade roast chicken.

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider brining the chicken overnight in a saltwater solution. It makes a significant difference in moisture and taste!

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the great aspects of this roast chicken is that you can prepare it in advance. If you're short on time on the day of your gathering, consider seasoning the chicken the night before. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the herbs to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor when it roasts.

To store leftovers, wait for the chicken to cool completely, then carve it and place the meat into an airtight container. You can keep the roasted chicken in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked meat; it keeps well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven to regain its crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, presentation is key. Carve the chicken at the table to create a sense of occasion, allowing your guests to enjoy the aroma of the freshly roasted herbs. Consider garnishing with extra fresh herbs or lemon slices for a pop of color and freshness that catches the eye.

For a complete meal, serve the chicken alongside the roasted seasonal vegetables and a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The combination and contrast of flavors will create a festive centerpiece for your holiday table, and the leftovers can be creatively turned into soups or sandwiches for the following days, making the most of your effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to ensure even roasting.

→ What can I substitute for fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used, but use about one-third of the amount since they are more potent.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when done, and the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to roast.