Savory Christmas Dish That Taste Better with Honey
Honey Garlic Roast Chicken
Image by: Nigel Lough
There’s something incredibly comforting about a roast chicken in the oven. It fills the kitchen with warmth, smells amazing, and feels like a meal made with care. This Honey Garlic Roast Chicken balances savory garlic with the natural sweetness of honey, creating a simple but deeply flavorful dish that’s perfect for special dinners.
Using raw honey from The Little Beekeeper adds depth and richness you just can’t get from processed sweeteners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
For the Honey Garlic Glaze
- ⅓ cup The Little Beekeeper’s raw honey (recommended for best flavor)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (or a mix)
- Optional: a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat
Cooking Procedure
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then place it in a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet. Season generously inside and out with salt and pepper. Rub the skin lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the raw honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, melted butter, vinegar or lemon juice, and herbs. The glaze should smell sweet, savory, and garlicky.
Step 3: Glaze and Roast
Brush about half of the glaze over the chicken, making sure to coat the skin well. Place the chicken in the oven and roast uncovered for about 1 hour, basting with more glaze every 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Finish and Rest
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and glossy. If the skin browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon any pan juices over the chicken before serving. Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a cozy, satisfying meal.
