Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken

Name: Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; 4 cloves garlic, smashed; 2 cups chicken broth

Highlighted under: Celebration Kitchen

I absolutely love preparing a Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken for my family during the holidays. There's something so comforting about the aroma of a chicken roasting in the oven, seasoned with herbs and spices. It brings everyone together, and the anticipation builds as the skin turns golden brown and crispy. This recipe combines classic flavors with a touch of festivity, making it a centerpiece for our holiday table. With a few simple yet thoughtful steps, you can create a dish that not only tastes incredible but also looks perfect for the occasion.

Created by

Eleanor Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:17:34.348Z

When I first made this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, it was during a particularly chilly December evening. I recall the joy of gathering the spices and fresh herbs, knowing they'd enhance the flavor of the roast. It was a hit with my family, and I quickly adopted it as a holiday tradition because of how it creates an inviting atmosphere filled with warmth and delicious scents.

I’ve tried several methods for roasting chicken over the years, but this combination of butter and herb stuffing truly makes a difference. It keeps the meat juicy while creating a beautiful crust. A little trick I learned is to let the chicken rest well after roasting; this helps retain the juices and makes every bite succulent!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy skin infused with rich herb flavors
Juicy meat that's bursting with festive tastes
A show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table

The Importance of Herb Timing

In this holiday roast chicken recipe, the timing of when you incorporate herbs into the dish is crucial for maximizing flavor. Adding fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme not only enhances the aromatic profile but also infuses the meat with depth as it roasts. When you rub the herb butter mixture under the skin, it creates a barrier that prevents the chicken from drying out, allowing the herbs to meld beautifully with the juices during cooking.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider letting the herb and butter mixture sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before applying it to the chicken. This way, the butter warms slightly, making it easier to spread and allowing the herbs to release their essential oils more effectively. These steps help ensure that every bite is bursting with festive flavors.

Perfecting the Roast

Getting the roast just right can be daunting, but there are techniques to ensure your chicken comes out perfectly cooked. The key is to monitor the internal temperature closely. Invest in a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the breast and thigh. The skin should be golden brown, crispy, and slightly taut to the touch, indicating it’s adequately rendered.

Basting the chicken every 30 minutes with the pan juices is essential to achieving that perfect, crackling skin while keeping the meat tender. If you notice the skin starting to browning too quickly, loosely cover the chicken with foil to prevent burning while allowing it to continue cooking through. This way, you achieve both aesthetics and deliciousness.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 cups chicken broth

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to begin.

Instructions

Here’s how to create this delicious roast chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.

Season the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the softened butter, salt, black pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to cover the breast and under the skin for maximum flavor.

Stuff the Chicken

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon quarters, onion quarters, and smashed garlic cloves. This will add wonderful aromatics as it roasts.

Roast the Chicken

Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste occasionally with the pan juices.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

Enjoy your delicious holiday roast chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider brining the chicken overnight before cooking. It enhances the juiciness and seasoning.

Variations for Different Flavors

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding different flavor profiles by experimenting with citrus or other herbs. Instead of lemon, oranges or limes can bring a unique twist to the dish, and herbs such as sage or parsley could also work well. Each variation will impart a distinct taste without altering the fundamental structure of the roast.

For a spicier kick, you can incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the butter mixture. This adds an unexpected depth of flavor while enhancing the overall presentation with vivid color. Don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing ahead of time can take the stress out of holiday cooking. You can clean and dry the chicken, then season it with the herb butter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it and store it in the refrigerator. This method allows the chicken to absorb the flavors more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful roast.

If you have leftovers, consider shredding the meat and using it in soups, salads, or sandwiches. Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Alternatively, you can freeze shredded chicken for up to three months, making it a versatile ingredient for future meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of seasoning?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste. Paprika, sage, or even curry powder can add unique flavors.

→ Is it necessary to stuff the chicken?

Stuffing is not required but does enhance the flavor profile. You can skip this step or use vegetables instead.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

The best method is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Roast chicken is best when served fresh. However, you can marinate it the night before and roast it on the day of your gathering.