Whole Roast Chicken for your Next Holiday Meal
This holiday season, instead of serving your friends and family the usual turkey or ham dinner, consider serving a beautifully roasted whole Jidori® chicken as the centerpiece of your meal. In their 2023 holiday survey, popular travel site The Vacationer, found turkey to be the top protein in their list of the most disliked traditional Thanksgiving foods. Of the 1,013 Americans polled, 27.7% said they disliked turkey and 25.6% said no thanks to ham.
Chicken is still the most consumed meat in the US by a big margin and as you plan for the holidays, consider preparing the best chicken available in America for your friends and loved ones. Available as spatchcock chicken and whole chicken, Jidori chicken is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. With rich flavor, a simple preparation, and perfect portion sizes, whole roast Jidori chicken can be the highlight of your next holiday gathering.
Why Roast Chicken is the Perfect Holiday Meal
- Ideal for Smaller Gatherings
For families or smaller gatherings, a whole roast chicken offers the perfect portion size, comfortably serving 4–6 people. It’s a manageable alternative to the larger turkey, avoiding excessive leftovers while still creating the sense of a grand, home-cooked feast. The bird’s modest size also means it fits well with a more intimate, relaxed holiday setting.
- Simple, Yet Special
One of the best things about roasting a chicken is how straightforward it is. Unlike turkey, which requires more preparation and attention, a chicken only needs about 90 minutes in the oven. A simple seasoning of butter, herbs, salt, and pepper transforms it into a holiday-worthy dish. The effort is minimal, but the result is a stunning, golden-brown bird that feels just as festive and indulgent as more elaborate options.
- Packed with Flavor and Tenderness
Roast chicken excels in both flavor and texture. The skin turns wonderfully crispy, while the meat stays juicy and tender. With a smaller bird, the cooking is even and consistent throughout, ensuring that every bite—from the breast to the thighs—is full of rich, savory goodness. Small additions like lemon, garlic, or fresh herbs enhance the natural flavors without overwhelming the dish, especially when using Jidori® chicken, known for its exceptional quality and flavor.
- Pairs Beautifully with Holiday Sides
Roast chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides. Whether it’s mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a tangy cranberry sauce, chicken adapts to a wide range of flavors. This versatility allows for creativity when planning your holiday spread while still providing the comforting, familiar tastes that make the season special.
How to Roast the Perfect Holiday Chicken
Here’s how to prepare a delicious roast chicken for your holiday table:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F for the ideal crispy skin.
- Season Generously: Rub the chicken inside and out with butter, salt, pepper, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. Adding lemon slices and garlic cloves to the cavity will infuse extra flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Surround the chicken with carrots, onions, and potatoes in the roasting pan. These will soak up the juices and cook to perfection alongside the bird.
- Roast and Baste: Roast for about 90 minutes, basting occasionally with the juices for extra moisture and flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes after roasting to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite.
Jidori Chicken - a New Holiday Tradition
For families looking to create new traditions or simply seeking an easier and tastier holiday meal, a whole roast chicken offers the perfect solution. It brings together the warmth and richness of a festive dish without the stress of a larger, more time-consuming bird. The quality of Jidori® chicken ensures that the flavors are deep and satisfying, making the meal feel special and memorable.
This holiday season, make whole roast chicken the star of your table. Its simplicity, flavor, and ability to bring people together make it the perfect centerpiece for creating cherished holiday memories.