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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lemons, halved; 1 onion, quartered; 4 garlic cloves, smashed; Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley); 2 cups bread cubes (preferably stale); 1 cup celery, chopped; 1 cup onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried sage; 1 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Collection

Every year, I look forward to preparing this Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken for my loved ones. The aroma of roasting herbs and citrus fills the kitchen, making it the centerpiece of our holiday gatherings. The combination of tender meat, savory stuffing, and a crisp, golden-brown skin creates a comforting dish that warms the heart. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, as it has become a beloved tradition in our family, perfect for both special occasions and cozy dinners at home.

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-01-26T04:53:34.761Z

When I first made this roast chicken, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together beautifully. By using a mix of fresh herbs and citrus, I created a juicy centerpiece that truly feels festive. The key is to start by seasoning under the skin for maximum flavor, which results in a wonderfully moist chicken. I often experiment with different stuffing variations to keep it exciting!

Serving this dish feels like a warm hug; it brings everyone together around the table. I love showcasing seasonal vegetables as a side, which not only add color but also enhance the overall dining experience. As the chicken roasts, I prepare a simple gravy, allowing the essence of the pan drippings to shine through, making every bite comforting and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic blend of fresh herbs and citrus
Crispy skin that locks in the juiciness
Perfectly seasoned with a flavorful stuffing

The Importance of Flavorful Stuffing

Stuffing is not just a filler in this roast chicken; it plays a critical role in enhancing the overall flavor. The combination of stale bread, sautéed celery, and onions creates a rich base that absorbs all the tasty juices from the chicken as it roasts. Using stale bread is essential, as it holds up better to moisture without turning into mush. When combined with the aromatic herbs, such as thyme and sage, it elevates the dish into something truly special.

To ensure your stuffing is perfectly seasoned, taste a small spoonful before stuffing it into the chicken. It should have a good balance of salt and herbs, so don’t be afraid to adjust based on your preferences. Additionally, feel free to make it your own by incorporating ingredients like chopped apples or cranberries for a touch of sweetness, or even nuts for added texture.

Achieving the Perfect Roast

Roasting the chicken at a steady temperature of 375°F (190°C) is key for achieving beautifully crispy skin and juicy meat. Make sure to start with a dry chicken; patting the skin dry with paper towels removes excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up rather than steam during the cooking process. Additionally, basting the chicken with its own juices halfway through roasting will help keep the meat moist while enhancing the flavor of the skin.

As you roast, it’s important to check the chicken's internal temperature with a reliable meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, to ensure an accurate reading. Once it reaches 165°F (74°C), your chicken is perfectly cooked. If the skin isn’t golden yet, you can increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10-15 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Stuffing

2 cups bread cubes (preferably stale)
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
1 cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, including under the skin. Rub olive oil all over the chicken.

Stuff the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the bread cubes with celery, onion, thyme, sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually add chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with this mixture, then place the lemon and onion inside as well.

Roast the Chicken

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

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. Serve with the stuffing and your favorite seasonal vegetables.

Pro Tips

To add extra flavor, consider basting the chicken with its own juices halfway through the roasting process. You can also try experimenting with different vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, roasting them around the chicken for a complete meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider seasoning the chicken and preparing the stuffing the night before. Store the seasoned chicken covered in the fridge, and allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting. This not only saves you time on a busy day but also infuses the flavors more deeply into the meat.

Leftover roast chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture. If you have extra stuffing, it can be frozen for later use; just ensure it’s in a sealed freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Serving Suggestions

This Seasonal & Festive Holiday Roast Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. My family loves it served alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, which can be roasted in the same oven for a hassle-free dinner. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also brighten the meal.

For a lovely presentation, slice the chicken at the table and serve it on a large platter with stuffing forming a cozy nest in the middle. Garnish with fresh herbs and citrus slices for a festive touch. A rich gravy made from the drippings while the chicken rests can complete the dish, making it feel like an indulgent feast worth remembering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking, as a frozen chicken will not cook evenly.

→ How can I tell if the chicken is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

→ What should I do with leftover roast chicken?

Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads, sandwiches, or soups. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

→ Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the stuffing and season the chicken the night before, then roast it the next day for easier meal preparation.