- Prepare the Chicken
Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
- Stuff the Chicken
Place the halved lemon and smashed garlic inside the cavity of the chicken. This adds flavor and moisture during cooking.
- Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the quartered onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. This acts as a rack for the chicken and adds flavor.
- Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on top of the onions in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Finish and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with your choice of sides and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Calories:350 kcals
- Fat:20 grams
- Proteins:30 grams
- Carbohydrates:2 grams
This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is a simple and effective way to prepare a juicy meal with minimal effort. First, using a slow cooker allows chicken to cook evenly throughout completely. Additionally, the chicken absorbs all delicious flavors from herbs and spices during cooking. Therefore, this method ensures consistent results every single time you prepare it.
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions, this dish works exceptionally well. Furthermore, you can serve it with various sides according to your preferences. As a result, this provides a great way to enjoy home-cooked meals easily. Meanwhile, you spend minimal hours in the kitchen preparing everything for dinner.
Overview of Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
The slow cooker whole chicken is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. With its tender meat and crispy skin, this recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a home-cooked meal without the fuss. The slow cooking method allows the chicken to absorb a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, creating a flavorful experience that is hard to resist.
Preparation Steps
First, preparing a slow cooker whole chicken remains straightforward and requires minimal effort. To begin, remove the giblets and pat the chicken dry completely. This step ensures crispy skin development during the cooking process.
Next, season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder blend today. Additionally, add onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme for well-rounded flavor profiles. Therefore, this combination creates the perfect seasoning base for your chicken.
Meanwhile, stuff the cavity with halved lemon and smashed garlic cloves carefully. Not only does this enhance the taste significantly, but it keeps meat moist. Furthermore, this technique ensures juicy results throughout the entire cooking process.
Finally, place quartered onion at the bottom of the slow cooker strategically. This creates a flavorful base that supports the chicken while cooking. As a result, the onions add extra depth to the overall dish.
Cooking Process
Once the chicken is seasoned and stuffed, it’s time to place it in the slow cooker. Position the chicken atop the onions, cover, and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking method ensures that the chicken becomes incredibly tender, with meat that falls off the bone.
As the chicken cooks, the enticing aroma of herbs and spices fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. The golden brown skin is a sign that the chicken is not only cooked but also beautifully roasted.
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Serving Suggestions
After the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a succulent serving. When ready, carve the chicken and serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the presentation and flavor. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, providing a satisfying main course that everyone will enjoy.
Health and Nutrition
A slow cooker whole chicken is not only delicious but also offers a nutritious meal option. With approximately 350 calories per serving, it provides a good source of protein, making it a filling choice for any meal. The combination of herbs and spices adds flavor without unnecessary calories, making it a smart addition to a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Incorporating a slow cooker whole chicken into your meal rotation can simplify dinner preparation while delivering a hearty and satisfying dish. With its tender meat, crispy skin, and aromatic flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Easy Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe
This recipe features a whole chicken seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, cooked slowly to achieve tender meat that falls off the bone. The process takes about 6-8 hours on low heat, making it ideal for a hassle-free dinner. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
