Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe
When you try this Slow Cooker Whole Chicken recipe, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The aroma that fills the house while it cooks is simply unbeatable.
I love how effortless it is; just season, stuff, and let the slow cooker work its magic. The chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Plus, it’s versatile—I can use leftovers in salads, sandwiches, or soups. Trust me, once you experience the ease and flavor of this dish, you’ll want to make it a staple in your home too!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
When it comes to making a whole chicken in a slow cooker, the ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet they pack a punch of flavor. You don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create a delicious and memorable meal. Instead, you can focus on some key staples that are likely already in your pantry or fridge.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
- 5 lbs whole chicken
- Cooking spray
- 2 tablespoons bacon grease (or any oil of choice)
- 2 tablespoons McCormick’s roasted garlic and herb seasoning
- 1 lemon, cut into quarters
- 1 onion, cut into quarters
Now, before you jump into the cooking process, consider a few things about the ingredients. First off, if you’re not a fan of bacon grease, don’t worry—any oil you like will work just fine. Olive oil, coconut oil, or even butter can add a lovely richness to the chicken.
As for the seasoning, McCormick’s roasted garlic and herb seasoning is a great choice, but feel free to get creative. Have a favorite spice blend? Go ahead and use that!
The lemon and onion are there to infuse the chicken with moisture and flavor, but you can also toss in some garlic cloves or fresh herbs if you have them on hand. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so let your taste buds guide you.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Alright, let’s explore the comforting world of making a Slow Cooker Whole Chicken. First things first, grab that 5 lbs whole chicken. If you’re like me, the first thing you’ll want to do is give it a little spa treatment by removing the giblets from the cavity—those little surprises that no one wants in their dinner.
Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with some paper towels. This step is essential, trust me; nobody wants soggy skin when it’s time to bite into that juicy chicken.
Now, let’s talk flavor. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of bacon grease (or your oil of choice) with 2 tablespoons of McCormick’s roasted garlic and herb seasoning. Get your hands in there and rub that mixture all over the chicken. Don’t be shy; it’s a massage, not a petting session.
Once that’s done, stuff the cavity with the onion and lemon quarters—this is where the magic happens, folks. The onion adds depth, and the lemon brings a zing that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Place your chicken breast side up in the slow cooker, and you’re almost there.
Set your slow cooker to high and let it work its magic for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature hits 165 degrees F, the golden number for chicken doneness.
Once it’s cooked, carefully remove the chicken using tongs. I’ve learned the hard way that chicken can be slippery, so be gentle. Place it on a baking dish and pop it into a preheated oven at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes.
This step is where you’ll achieve that crispy, golden skin—because let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good crunch? If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even broil it for 5 minutes instead.
Now, just imagine serving this beauty at dinner. You’re going to feel like a culinary genius. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic slow cooker whole chicken recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to switch things up.
For instance, swap the bacon grease for olive oil or butter for a different flavor. You can use different herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of the garlic and herb seasoning.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add some diced vegetables like carrots or potatoes around the chicken. To enhance the zest, try adding garlic cloves or even a splash of white wine.
These small changes can create new flavor profiles and keep the recipe exciting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Since a slow cooker whole chicken is a hearty and flavorful dish, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. A fresh garden salad adds a nice crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
For something a bit different, I often whip up a quinoa salad with herbs and lemon.
Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices!
These sides not only complement the chicken but also elevate the entire dining experience, making it truly satisfying and memorable.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your slow cooker whole chicken turns out perfectly every time, I’ve found a few additional tips that can make a significant difference.
First, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking; this helps it cook evenly. If you like a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme under the skin.
Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F.
Finally, don’t skip the crispy finish in the oven—it’s worth it! Enjoy the process, and remember, practice makes perfect! Happy cooking!