nstructions
Prep the Chicken: Remove any giblets from the cavity of the chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks.
Season: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture generously all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. For even more flavor, gently loosen the skin and rub the seasoning underneath it.
Add Aromatics: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the quartered lemon, onion, and smashed garlic cloves. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra boost of flavor.
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place a few crumpled balls of aluminum foil or sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will lift the chicken off the base, allowing it to cook evenly and prevent it from sitting in its own juices.
Cook: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, breast side up. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is tender.
Crisp the Skin (Optional): For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides or use the chicken in various dishes throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
Tender and Juicy: The slow cooker method ensures the chicken stays incredibly moist, while the seasoning infuses the meat with flavor.
Minimal Effort: With just a few minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the work, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
Versatile: You can enjoy the chicken as is, or use the meat in salads, soups, tacos, sandwiches, or casseroles.
Healthier Than Store-Bought: Making rotisserie chicken at home allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding excess salt, preservatives, or unnecessary additives.
Perfect Pairings
Serve your Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken with:
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or any other favorite veggies are a great complement.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the tender chicken.
Rice or Quinoa: These grains make a simple but satisfying base to serve alongside the flavorful chicken.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.
Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Shred or portion the chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy meal prep. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips for Success
Crisping the Skin: If you love crispy skin, don’t skip the broiling step. Just a few minutes under the broiler will give you that golden, crispy texture without drying out the meat.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to mix up the spices. Try adding cumin, smoked paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for a different flavor profile.
Make Broth: Don’t throw away the chicken bones! Use the leftover bones, skin, and juices from the slow cooker to make a rich and flavorful homemade chicken broth.
Conclusion
Making your own Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken at home is incredibly simple and rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re serving it fresh out of the slow cooker with classic sides or using the leftovers in various dishes, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. So, dust off your slow cooker, season that chicken, and enjoy the mouthwatering results!
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