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 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 lemons (one for stuffing, one for juice); Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons flour; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Festive Flavor Creations

I absolutely love preparing this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken, especially as the holidays approach. The aroma of the roasted chicken fills the kitchen and instantly creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. I've tested various seasonings and complementary flavors, and I found that using fresh herbs with a hint of citrus elevates the dish to a whole new level. This recipe is not just about the chicken; it’s about bringing everyone together to share a delicious meal full of joy and celebration.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:09:35.816Z

When I first made this holiday roast chicken, I was searching for a recipe that would wow my family. The combination of garlic, rosemary, and lemon not only enhances the chicken but also creates an incredible cooking aroma that fills our home with festive spirit. I think what truly sets this roast apart is letting the chicken rest after cooking; this simple step ensures the meat stays juicy and tender.

Over the years, I've adjusted various aspects of the recipe, like adding a splash of white wine to the pan. This small detail adds depth to the gravy and brings out those savory flavors that you just can't resist. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly crispy skin with juicy, tender meat
Aromatic blend of fresh herbs that fills your kitchen
Versatile enough to impress any holiday crowd

Perfecting the Roast

The key to achieving that perfect roast chicken lies in the initial seasoning process. When you apply the olive oil, be sure to massage it into the skin thoroughly; this not only helps with browning but also ensures that the seasonings adhere. For an even crispier skin, allow the chicken to air-dry in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to the right temperature to help seal in the moisture as the chicken cooks.

As the chicken roasts, the fresh herbs release their essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor. I prefer using herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley because they complement the natural richness of the chicken. If you want to experiment, feel free to use herbs like sage or oregano, but keep in mind that each herb brings its own distinct flavor profile. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences; just a handful is typically enough to infuse a wonderful aroma.

Making Savory Gravy

Taking the time to prepare a homemade gravy enhances the dining experience, turning a simple roast chicken into something extraordinary. After removing the chicken, be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the roasting pan; these bits are packed with flavor. Incorporating these into your gravy will deepen its taste significantly. Use a whisk to combine the flour and liquid thoroughly, preventing lumps and ensuring a smooth consistency.

If you’d like a richer gravy, consider adding a tablespoon of butter to the saucepan while combining the broth and wine. This small addition creates a glossy finish and more complex flavor. Want to reduce the acidity? Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the taste. Always taste your gravy before serving; adjusting the seasoning is essential to ensuring that it complements the roast chicken perfectly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful roast chicken:

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 lemons (one for stuffing, one for juice)
Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy

1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup white wine
2 tablespoons flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to prepare your ingredients beforehand to streamline the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect holiday roast chicken:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a roasting pan.

Season the Chicken

Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Squeeze juice from one lemon over the chicken and place the lemon halves inside the cavity along with fresh herbs.

Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.

Rest and Prepare Gravy

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the gravy by combining chicken broth and white wine in a saucepan; whisk in flour and bring to a boil.

Serve

Carve the chicken and serve with the homemade gravy for a delightful holiday feast!

Enjoy your delicious holiday roast chicken with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try brining the chicken overnight in a saltwater solution. It really helps to keep the meat juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the carved chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When it comes to reheating, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Adding a splash of broth over the chicken before covering it with foil can help retain moisture. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be cautious not to overheat it, or you’ll end up with rubbery meat.

For longer storage, you can freeze pieces of the roast chicken. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The chicken can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Serving Suggestions

This Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that can elevate your festive meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs. A bright, citrusy salad can also complement the richness of the chicken, refreshing the palate between bites. Don't forget to provide crusty bread to soak up that delicious gravy!

For a twist, you can transform leftovers into delicious chicken sandwiches or a hearty soup. Shred the chicken and mix it with some leftover gravy and add some vegetables for a comforting dish. This versatility ensures that not a morsel goes to waste and allows you to enjoy this roast chicken in new and exciting ways long after the celebrations have concluded.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

→ What side dishes pair well with roast chicken?

Roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad are great options!

→ How can I ensure my chicken stays moist?

Letting the chicken rest after roasting and basting it during cooking helps keep the meat moist.

→ Can I use other herbs besides rosemary and thyme?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any herbs you enjoy, such as sage or oregano.