Craving a delicious and effortless meal that will make your house smell amazing? Look no further than this mouth-watering recipe for Crockpot Whole Chicken. Using a slow cooker allows you to achieve tender and juicy meat that falls right off the bone, with minimal effort on your part. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing for a cozy Sunday meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, halved
– 1 onion, quartered
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Start by mixing the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a dry rub for the chicken.
2. Remove any giblets from the cavity of the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken inside and out with the prepared dry rub, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Place the halved lemon, quartered onion, and garlic cloves in the cavity of the chicken. These aromatics will infuse the meat with incredible flavor as it cooks.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crockpot. This will help keep the chicken moist and create a delicious jus.
5. Carefully place the seasoned whole chicken into the crockpot, breast side up.
6. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook the chicken on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your chicken and the potency of your slow cooker.
7. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding contact with the bone. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) when the chicken is fully cooked.
8. Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crockpot and transfer it to a serving platter. Let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
9. Strain the liquid from the crockpot to remove any solids. This flavorful liquid can be drizzled over the carved chicken for additional moisture and taste.
10. Serve the Crockpot Whole Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the tender, flavorful meat that practically falls off the bone with each bite.
Now that you’ve mastered this easy and delicious recipe, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked whole chicken with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the work for you, allowing you to savor a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a flavorful and comforting dish to serve your family and friends, turn to this Crockpot Whole Chicken recipe for a winning meal every time.
