why make this recipe
Cooking a whole chicken in a slow cooker is one of the easiest and most delicious ways to prepare a meal. It allows the chicken to slowly cook in its own juices, making it incredibly tender and flavorful. Using a slow cooker saves time and effort; you can set it up and let it do the work while you focus on other things. Plus, this recipe requires just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
how to make Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Ingredients :
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs), giblets removed
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Directions :
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
- Stuff the chicken with the halved lemon, quartered onion, and smashed garlic.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the thigh reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes. Strain the juices for gravy if desired.
- Carve the chicken and serve.
how to serve Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Serve the slow cooker whole chicken with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. The tender meat pairs well with a variety of sides. You can also use the leftovers to make sandwiches or salads for the next day.
how to store Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can shred the leftover chicken and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date.
tips to make Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the skin crisp up a bit if you roast it later.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like carrots or potatoes, in the slow cooker for a complete meal.
- For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
variation
You can change the spices based on your taste. Try adding rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. You can also use a citrus mix, such as oranges and limes, instead of just lemon for a unique taste.
FAQs
Can I cook a frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
It is not recommended to cook a frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Always thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent any food safety issues.
Can I use a larger chicken?
Yes, you can use a larger chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Can I use a different broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or any other type of broth you prefer. Each will give the chicken a unique flavor.
