Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
There’s something incredibly comforting about a perfectly cooked whole chicken, especially when it’s made in a slow cooker. The Slow Cooker Whole Chicken brings together tender, juicy meat with a crispy skin that is absolutely irresistible. Picture it: you arrive home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma wafting through your home, making your stomach growl in anticipation. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was surprised at how easy it was and how deliciously satisfying it turned out. The beauty of this recipe is that it practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to spend with loved ones or to unwind after a busy day. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze! This is a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Recipe Snapshot
5 hr 10 mins
10 mins
300 mins
Hard
350 kcal
50 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Slow Cooker
What’s Great About This Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Tender and Juicy
One of the standout features of the Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is the ability to achieve melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Cooking it low and slow ensures that the meat retains its moisture, resulting in a succulent meal that just falls off the bone. You won’t need a knife to carve it; a fork will do!
Flavorful Seasoning
The spice blend I use brings out the best in the chicken, enhancing its natural flavors. With ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, and rosemary, each bite is a delightful explosion of taste. You can also adjust the spices to suit your personal preferences, making it a versatile recipe that caters to everyone.
Effortless Preparation
Who doesn’t love a recipe that requires minimal effort? Preparing the Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is as simple as seasoning the bird and letting it cook. You can throw in some vegetables towards the end for a complete meal, and the slow cooker takes care of the rest. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
Leftover Potential
Another reason to love this dish is the leftovers it provides. Whether you use the chicken in sandwiches, salads, or soups, the possibilities are endless. You can even make broth with the bones, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. It stretches your meals further, saving time and effort on future cooking.
Great for Gatherings
Hosting friends or family? The Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is an ideal dish to serve. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks impressive on the table. Just carve it in front of your guests, and they’ll be impressed by your culinary skills, even if all you did was let the slow cooker do its thing!
A Cozy Meal
There’s something inherently cozy about a whole roasted chicken. It reminds me of family dinners and special occasions. Whether it’s a Sunday supper or a holiday gathering, this dish sets the stage for warm conversation and shared memories. The Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.
Main Ingredients for Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
The ingredients used in the Slow Cooker Whole Chicken are not just components; they are the backbone of this delightful dish. Each ingredient plays a key role, ensuring that the chicken is packed with flavor and remains juicy throughout the cooking process. From the aromatic herbs to the seasoning mix, every element harmonizes beautifully to create a comforting meal.
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 6 lbs) – The star of the show, providing the main protein and deliciousness.
- 1 1/2 tsp paprika – Adds a lovely depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness.
- 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses the chicken with a savory aroma.
- 1 tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall taste with its rich flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – Brings a lovely herbaceous note to the dish.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Adds a woodsy flavor that complements the chicken well.
- 1/2 tsp celery seed – Provides a unique taste that enhances the seasoning blend.
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (optional) – Imparts a beautiful golden color and earthiness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for enhancing and balancing flavors.
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Instructions
Cooking the Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Just follow these easy steps for a delicious meal.
- Start by removing any giblets from the center of the chicken. You may find it helpful to use a fork to reach down into the cavity or let the chicken fall upright to get them out.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, celery seed, turmeric, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. I usually go for about 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.
- Transfer the chicken to a slow cooker (preferably a 6 or 7 quart one). Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, ensuring to get it into the cavity for maximum flavor.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to high heat. Let it cook for about 4 to 5 hours. If you prefer, you can set it on low heat for about 8 hours. The key is to cook until the internal temperature of the thigh reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Once done, transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even more succulent.
- After resting, slice the chicken as desired and serve it warm. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
Things Worth Knowing
- Slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the spices thoroughly.
- Using a meat thermometer helps ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly without being dry.
- For a more flavorful meal, add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing is crucial for juicy meat.
Helpful Hints
Here are some tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Whole Chicken turns out perfectly every time.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly!
- Pairing: This chicken goes wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Flavoring: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique twist on the flavor.
- Serving Style: For a beautiful presentation, carve the chicken at the table to impress guests.
How to Enjoy Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Serving the Slow Cooker Whole Chicken opens a world of delicious possibilities. Here are some ideas:
- Pair it with roasted vegetables: Serve alongside seasoned roasted carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a hearty meal.
- Use in sandwiches: Shred the leftover chicken for delightful sandwiches or wraps, adding fresh greens, and your favorite sauce.
- Add to salads: The tender chicken is perfect for salads, providing protein and flavor without the need for additional cooking.
- Make chicken soup: Use the leftover meat and bones to create a comforting chicken soup with noodles or rice.
- Serve for special occasions: This dish is great for family gatherings or special holidays, making it a centerpiece that everyone will enjoy.
- Store properly: Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge or can be frozen for later use.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is a wonderful recipe that captures the essence of comfort food. Its simplicity and rich flavors make it a go-to for busy weeknights or special gatherings. I encourage you to try making this dish; it’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes with every bite!
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Remove giblets from center of chicken. You may need to use a fork to reach down in or turn upright and let fall through.
- In a small bowl whisk together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, celery seed, turmeric and salt and pepper to taste (I use 2 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper).
- Transfer chicken to a 6 or 7 quart slow cooker, sprinkle all over with spice mixture including the inside cavity.
- Cover and cook on high heat for 4 - 5 hours (or low heat for about 8 hours), until center of thigh registers 165 degrees on an instant read thermometer.
- Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly!
- Tip 3: This chicken goes wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique twist on the flavor.
- Tip 5: For a beautiful presentation, carve the chicken at the table to impress guests.
