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: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered; 3 cloves garlic, smashed; 1 cup bread crumbs; 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped; 1/2 cup cranberries, dried; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup chicken broth

Highlighted under: Holiday Kitchen Creations

I love the warmth and joy that comes with preparing a holiday feast, and this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken is the star of my celebrations. The aroma of herbs and spices fills my kitchen as the chicken roasts to golden perfection. By using fresh ingredients and a simple method, I can create a dish that not only looks stunning on the table but also delivers an unforgettable flavor. Sharing this chicken with my loved ones has become a cherished tradition that I look forward to every year.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:33:34.522Z

When I first made this holiday roast chicken, I was pleasantly surprised by how effortless it was to prepare. I combined seasonal herbs like rosemary and thyme with zesty lemon to create a flavor profile that dazzled my guests. One vital tip I learned is to let the chicken rest after roasting; this step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender meat.

After several holiday gatherings, my family associates the aroma of this roast chicken with comfort and celebration. I often try varying the stuffing with fruits like apricots and cranberries, which brings a delicious sweetness that complements the savory meat beautifully. I can't wait to share this recipe with you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy roasted chicken infused with fresh herbs and citrus.
A centerpiece dish that brings family and friends together.
Simple preparation with delicious results, perfect for celebrations.

Choosing the Perfect Chicken

When selecting a whole chicken for roasting, aim for one that is around 4-5 lbs for optimum cooking results. This size ensures the meat stays juicy while achieving a beautifully caramelized skin. Look for a chicken with plump breasts and a good amount of fat under the skin, which will render as it cooks, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. If you're looking for deeper flavor, consider purchasing a free-range or organic chicken, as they often have a more robust taste.

Additionally, it's essential to let your chicken come to room temperature before cooking. Take it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes prior to seasoning and roasting. This step aids in even cooking; a cold chicken can lead to unevenly cooked meat, with the outside potentially overcooked before the inside reaches the safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Creating the Ultimate Flavor Profile

In this recipe, the combination of fresh herbs and citrus elevates the chicken's flavor remarkably. The rosemary and thyme not only infuse the chicken while it cooks but also complement the natural flavors of the bird. I recommend chopping the herbs finely to maximize their aromatic impact. If you cannot find fresh herbs, feel free to substitute with dried versions, but use about a third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

The addition of lemon and garlic in the cavity serves two purposes: it imparts a refreshing zesty flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking. For an extra twist, consider adding a few sprigs of parsley or a half an apple for a subtly sweet undertone, which blends beautifully with the savory stuffing.

Stuffing and Cooking Techniques

Making the stuffing not only adds flavor but also creates a wonderful texture contrast. Ensure your breadcrumbs are fresh or lightly toasted to prevent them from becoming too soggy. If you're gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties, or use crushed rice cakes for a similar effect. The mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and spices offers a balance of sweetness and crunch, enhancing each bite of chicken.

While roasting, be sure to baste the chicken periodically with the juices that collect at the bottom of the roasting pan. This not only adds flavor but helps with achieving that golden, crispy skin. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, tent the chicken with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the interior continues to cook through.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered
3 cloves garlic, smashed

For the Stuffing

1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
1/2 cup cranberries, dried
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup chicken broth

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, and smashed garlic.

Make the Stuffing

In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, apricots, cranberries, cinnamon, walnuts, and chicken broth. Mix until the bread crumbs are moist. Stuff this mixture into the cavity of the chicken.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken on a roasting pan and roast in the oven for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste occasionally for added moisture.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your holiday feast!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with olive oil and herbs. You can also add vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the roasting pan for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes time to serve, this holiday roast chicken makes an impressive centerpiece. Pair it with seasonal side dishes like roasted root vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. A tart cranberry sauce or a citrus salsa can also add a refreshing contrast that complements the flavors beautifully.

Consider carving the chicken at the table for a dramatic presentation. For an efficient carving experience, use a sharp carving knife and remove the legs first, followed by the breasts. Arrange the carved pieces on a large platter, garnishing with additional fresh herbs and citrus wedges for a festive touch that invites your guests to dig in.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can season the chicken and prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply cover the chicken and stuffing tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier dish when you roast it the next day. Just remember to take the chicken out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it back to room temperature.

Leftover chicken is excellent for making sandwiches or salads. Store any remaining meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, shred the chicken and freeze it in portions, which can be easily added to soups or casseroles later. Reheating in a skillet with a splash of broth will keep the chicken moist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chicken is cooking unevenly, it's often due to its shape. Larger breasts may take longer to cook than the thighs. To combat this, you can tie the legs together with kitchen twine, promoting more even cooking. Using a meat thermometer will also help, ensuring you don’t overcook the breast meat while waiting for the thighs to finish cooking.

Another common issue is dry chicken. To combat this, make sure to baste frequently with the pan juices. If you're in a dry climate or roasting in high heat, consider placing a small dish of water in the oven to create steam, which helps keep the chicken moist during cooking. Your careful attention during these steps can significantly enhance both the cooking process and the final result.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh chicken, but if using frozen, ensure it is fully thawed before preparation.

→ What can I serve with the roast chicken?

Pair it with seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a festive salad for a complete meal.

→ How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Basting the chicken during roasting and allowing it to rest afterwards helps retain moisture.

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.