Description
A slow-cooked whole chicken that is incredibly tender and flavorful, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 to 4 lb whole chicken, preferably organic
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2¼ to 3 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatic Base: Layer the onion rings and minced garlic at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Position the Chicken: Set the whole chicken on top of the onions, breast-side up.
- Add the Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, massaging it into the skin.
- Season Generously: Combine the kosher salt, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper; season the chicken.
- Include Giblets (Optional): Add giblets around the chicken for enhanced flavor.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours, until the meat pulls away from the bone.
- Final Steps: Discard giblets if used, and let the chicken sit before carving.
Notes
Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking for optimal flavor. For enhanced flavors, consider using fresh herbs or adding lemon slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 450 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: slow cooker, whole chicken, tender chicken, family recipe, comfort food
