Whole Chicken Slow Cooker Recipe
If you’ve been searching for a simple yet delicious way to prepare a whole chicken, this slow cooker whole chicken recipe is your answer. This method not only results in a spicy, juicy chicken but also requires minimal effort. The slow cooker evenly cooks the bird, ensuring a moist texture throughout. Therefore, whether you’re new to slow cooker techniques or a seasoned pro, this recipe is perfect for any skill level.
Yield and Cooking Process
This recipe yields 1 whole chicken and is ideal for serving eight people. The preparation time is a quick 10 minutes, while the slow cooking does the heavy lifting over four hours. Including additional marinating time, you’re looking at a total of 12 hours and 10 minutes of patience, rewarded with a perfectly cooked chicken.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Below are the ingredients needed to craft this delicious dish:
- 4 teaspoons salt, or to taste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 whole chicken
Instructions for Preparing Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
- Firstly, begin by mixing together salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, thyme, white pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Next, rub this spice mixture all over the whole chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for up to 8 hours for deeper flavors.
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before cooking. This step aids in even cooking.
- Place the marinated chicken into the slow cooker. Set your slow cooker to a low setting and cook for about 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- After slow cooking, carefully remove the chicken from the cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Doing so allows the juices to redistribute, maintaining the chicken’s juicy texture.
In conclusion, the slow cooker whole chicken is an effortless way to achieve a flavorful and tender chicken. You can pair it with vegetables or potatoes for a complete meal.
Healthier Cooking Option
For a healthier option, consider removing the skin before marinating. While the skin offers a lot of flavors, taking it off reduces fat intake. Moreover, using herbs like rosemary or adding lemon slices inside the cavity can enhance the dish without needing extra cayenne pepper or paprika.
This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is perfect for those seeking a nutritious and hassle-free meal. Try it today, and let the slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the compliments at dinner!
