Slow Cooker Whole Roasted Chicken Recipe

Introduction:

Cooking a whole chicken in a slow cooker is an effortless way to achieve a moist, flavorful roast.

This method allows the chicken to cook slowly in its own juices, ensuring that the meat stays tender and infused with the seasonings.

Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this slow cooker chicken requires minimal preparation for maximum reward.

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 onion, quartered

4 cloves garlic, peeled

1 lemon, halved

Directions:

Prepare the Chicken:

Remove the giblets and excess fat from the chicken. Rinse the chicken inside and out under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Season the Chicken:

Rub the chicken all over with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the chicken.

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with quartered onion, garlic cloves, and lemon halves.

Cook the Chicken:

Place the chicken breast side up in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

For a crispy skin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Carefully transfer the chicken to a roasting pan and roast in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the skin is golden and crispy.

Rest and Serve:

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker or oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more succulent.

Conclusion:

This Slow Cooker Whole Roasted Chicken is a wonderful dish that combines convenience with the comfort of home-cooked food.

The slow cooker does all the work, gently coaxing out flavors and textures that only slow cooking can achieve.

Serve this juicy chicken with a side of vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.