As yuletide preparations begin, a show-stopping holiday roast chicken, with its golden, crispy skin and succulent meat, stands as the centrepiece of countless celebration tables. It’s an art that any home cook can master with the right guidance, and the process will inspire and excite. The Foundation: Choosing Your Bird The Best Dressed Chicken Roaster, specially cultivated by Jamaican farmers for the holiday season, provides the perfect foundation for your feast.
These premium birds are bred to be 30 per cent larger than standard chickens, making them ideal for generous family gatherings. “Our Christmas roasters are specifically bred for that show-stopping holiday moment,” notes Arielle Oliver, brand manager at The Best Dressed Chicken. The Essential Preparation Success begins the day before with dry brining — a simple yet transformative technique.
“Think of it as a spa treatment for your bird,” explains Chef Jacqui Tyson. A blend of kosher salt, crushed garlic, fresh herbs, and citrus zest worked into the chicken creates layers of flavour while ensuring perfectly crispy skin. Let your seasoned bird rest uncovered in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the cool air to work its magic.
Mastering the Roast Temperature control is crucial for the perfect roast. For a holiday feast, consider the high-heat method (375-450°F), which delivers gloriously crispy skin and reduces cooking time, leaving more room for preparing beloved side dishes. Remember to bring your chic.
