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Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 5 reviews

This Slow Cooker Whole Chicken recipe features a tender, juicy chicken cooked to perfection with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Using a slow cooker allows the chicken to absorb flavors while staying moist, making it an effortless and delicious meal ideal for any day of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 5 lb. small whole chicken (preferably 4–5 lbs.)
  • ½ cup butter, melted
  • 1 lemon (optional, halved)
  • ½ tsp. dried thyme (or rosemary or oregano as substitutes)
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. paprika
  • ¼ tsp. garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp. pepper

Vegetables

  • 4 carrots, peeled and halved
  • 1 red onion, peeled and quartered

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Add the peeled and halved carrots along with the peeled and quartered red onion to the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a flavorful bed for the chicken.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from its packaging. Discard any extra parts or packaging from inside the cavity and drain any liquid.
  3. Place Chicken on Vegetables: Set the whole chicken on top of the vegetable bed inside the slow cooker.
  4. Apply Butter and Lemon: Pour the melted butter evenly over the chicken, then cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken for added brightness and flavor.
  5. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper evenly over the chicken to season it thoroughly.
  6. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken.
  7. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when the drumsticks start pulling away from the breasts and the juices run clear. For safety, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Notes

  • Choose a smaller whole chicken around 4-5 lbs for best results in the slow cooker.
  • If you prefer a different flavor profile, substitute dried thyme with rosemary or oregano.
  • To ensure food safety, always check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer.
  • You can add other root vegetables like potatoes or parsnips alongside the carrots and onion if desired.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, whole chicken, slow cooked chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, slow cooker recipes

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/slow-cooker-whole-chicken-recipe/