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: 4 cups water; 1/4 cup salt; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 oranges - zested and juiced; 1 tablespoon black peppercorns; 5 sprigs fresh thyme; 5 sprigs fresh rosemary; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 onion - quartered; 2 carrots - chopped; 2 potatoes - chopped; 1 lemon - sliced

Highlighted under: Festive Creations

I absolutely love preparing a seasonal and festive holiday roast chicken. This dish brings warmth and joy to our family gatherings, filling the house with tantalizing aromas. The combination of herbs and citrus elevates the chicken’s flavor, making it a standout centerpiece for any holiday table. I find that a simple brine with lemon and fresh herbs goes a long way in ensuring the meat stays juicy and tender throughout the roasting process. Join me in creating this memorable meal that is sure to impress your guests!

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T05:05:34.574Z

Every holiday season, I look forward to the tradition of roasting a chicken that truly captures the festive spirit. This year, I decided to experiment with a citrus brine made of fresh oranges and herbs. The result was unbelievably juicy chicken with a tangy flavor that perfectly complemented the aromatic herbs. What I love most is the color it brings to the table, making it not just a meal, but a celebration!

One unique tip I discovered is to sear the chicken before roasting. This creates a beautiful golden crust that locks in the moisture, giving you both great texture and flavor. Plus, using a mix of root vegetables around the chicken not only enhances the taste but also creates a gorgeous presentation. It’s a recipe that brings my family together, and I believe it will do the same for yours!

Reasons to Love This Roast Chicken
Succulent meat infused with citrus flavors
A vibrant dish that makes any holiday table shine
Simple ingredients that create a complex taste

Brining: A Key to Juiciness

Brining the chicken is essential for achieving a moist and flavorful roast. The salt in the brine alters the protein structure of the meat, allowing it to retain moisture during cooking. When you incorporate citrus like oranges, you infuse not just flavor, but also acid that tenderizes the meat. I recommend brining overnight when possible, as this extended time allows the flavor and moisture to penetrate deeply into the chicken.

Make sure to keep the brine cool while the chicken is soaking. A good tip is to place the brining bag inside a bowl of ice to maintain a safe temperature, especially if you're brining for several hours. If you forget to check the time, you might end up with overly salty chicken, so a timer can be your best friend in this process.

The Roasting Process

When it comes to roasting, the chicken benefits greatly from high initial heat. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) is crucial as it allows the skin to crisp up beautifully, developing a golden brown color. During roasting, check for doneness after about 75 minutes by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (75°C) to confirm that your chicken is safe and properly cooked.

While the chicken is cooking, the vegetables underneath absorb the drippings, becoming flavorful accompaniments. Take care not to overcrowd your roasting pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than roasting. If you want to add more veggies or even some potatoes, maintain enough space for air circulation to ensure even cooking and browning.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for an unforgettable roast chicken.

For the Brine

4 cups water
1/4 cup salt
1/4 cup sugar
2 oranges - zested and juiced
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
5 sprigs fresh thyme
5 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon garlic powder

For the Roast Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 onion - quartered
2 carrots - chopped
2 potatoes - chopped
1 lemon - sliced

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to roast your holiday chicken!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your roast chicken a success!

Prepare the Brine

In a large pot, combine water, salt, sugar, orange juice and zest, peppercorns, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder. Heat over medium until salt and sugar dissolve. Let cool completely.

Brine the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or a brining bucket and pour the cooled brine over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare for Roasting

Remove the chicken from the brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry. Rub olive oil all over, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon slices, and any leftover herbs.

Roast the Chicken

In a roasting pan, arrange the chopped vegetables. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables and roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve warm with the roasted vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious seasonal roast chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some garlic cloves and herbs under the skin of the chicken before roasting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover roast chicken, it’s essential to store it properly for the best taste and texture. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. For extended storage, slice the chicken and freeze it, ensuring it is well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last up to three months in the freezer.

When reheating, aim for gentle warmth rather than aggressive baking, as this will prevent the meat from drying out. I recommend reheating in the oven at a lower temperature, around 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to retain moisture until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This method will ensure your chicken remains juicy, much like when freshly roasted.

Serving Suggestions

For a festive presentation, consider garnishing the plated roast chicken with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. A sprinkle of fresh citrus zest right before serving adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. Pair the roast with a seasonal salad or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal that reflects the holiday spirit.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, a homemade gravy made from the roasted drippings can transform the experience. Simply deglaze the roasting pan with a splash of white wine or broth and simmer until reduced, then thicken with a cornstarch slurry if desired. It brings a delightful depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt the brining method for turkey or even pork. Just adjust the brining time based on the size of the meat.

→ How long should I brine the chicken?

For a whole chicken, brining for at least 4 hours is ideal, but for the best flavor, aiming for overnight is recommended.

→ What should I serve with the roast chicken?

Roasted root vegetables, a fresh salad, or even mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with this dish.

→ Can I prepare the brine in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the brine a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.