The holiday season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. For those following halal dietary guidelines, preparing a festive dinner that embraces tradition while staying true to halal principles is simpler than it seems. This recipe features a centrepiece of roast chicken, paired with herbed potatoes and a flavourful spiced vegetable medley.

Main Course: Herb-Butter Roast Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 whole halal chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) or a halal butter substitute
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 tbsp rosemary (chopped)
• 1 tbsp thyme (chopped)
• 1 lemon (halved)
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 cup chicken stock

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.
2. Make the Herb Butter: In a bowl, combine the butter, garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Season the Chicken: Carefully lift the skin over the chicken breast and spread half the herb butter underneath. Rub the remaining butter over the chicken skin.
4. Stuff and Roast: Place the lemon halves inside the chicken cavity. Pour the chicken stock into the pan, then roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes. The chicken is done when a thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Side Dish 1: Herbed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs baby potatoes (halved)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden and tender.

Side Dish 2: Spiced Vegetable Medley

Ingredients:

• 1 cup carrots (sliced)
• 1 cup green beans (trimmed)
• 1 cup brussels sprouts (halved)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the vegetables and sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the spices over the vegetables and cook for another 5-7 minutes until tender.

This halal Christmas dinner is not only delicious but also a thoughtful way to bring people together. The fragrant roast chicken, crispy potatoes, and flavourful vegetables make for a meal everyone will enjoy. Whether you're hosting family or friends, this feast is sure to create cherished holiday memories.

Happy holidays and bon appétit!