- Prep the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the giblets from the chicken, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. Place in a roasting pan or oven-safe tray.
- Make the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
- Rub & Stuff
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken—top, sides, and inside the cavity. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, garlic cloves, and onion quarters for extra aroma and flavor.
- Add Citrus & Berries
Arrange lemon slices and cranberries (or berries of your choice) around the chicken in the tray. Drizzle a little olive oil on top if desired.
- Roast to Perfection
Place the tray in the oven and roast for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on chicken size), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Rest & Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or fresh bread.
- Calories:320 kcal
- Protein:28 g
- Fat:20 g
- Carbs:6 g
- Fiber:1 g
- Sugars:3 g
This festive whole Roasted Chicken recipe is a flavorful showstopper that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Infused with herbs, citrus, and berries, it offers a refreshing twist on traditional poultry dishes—without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re planning a Christmas feast, a Thanksgiving spread, or a simple Sunday dinner, this dish delivers elegance and comfort in every bite. The combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and a sweet-tart berry glaze makes it a standout centerpiece.
🌿 Aromatic Herb Blend for Deep Flavor
The flavor foundation begins with a homemade herb rub. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper is blended with olive oil to create a rich paste. This rub not only seasons the chicken but also helps the skin crisp up beautifully during roasting.
🍋 Citrus and Berry Accents
Inside the chicken cavity, lemon slices add brightness and moisture. Around the bird, cranberries or mixed berries roast to perfection, releasing sweet-tart juices that mingle with the savory drippings. The result is a light glaze that balances the dish with a hint of natural sweetness.
🔥 Roasting Tips for Juicy Results
Roast the chicken until the skin turns golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Resting the chicken before carving ensures the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and moist. The combination of citrus steam and berry glaze makes this dish both aromatic and succulent.
🥗 What to Serve with Roasted Chicken
This gluten-free, low-carb dish pairs well with:
- Roasted root vegetables
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Quinoa or couscous
- A crisp seasonal salad
Its vibrant presentation makes it ideal for both festive occasions and everyday meals.
👩🍳 Why You’ll Love This Roasted Chicken Recipe
- Beginner-friendly with minimal prep
- Naturally gluten-free and protein-rich
- Visually stunning and full of flavor
- Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Sunday dinner
