There's something magical about coming home to the delightful aroma of a perfectly cooked meal, especially when it's a succulent Slow Cooker Whole Chicken infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon slices, aromatic rosemary, and juicy tomatoes. This recipe is a testament to the incredible convenience and mouthwatering results that can be achieved with a slow cooker. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a hassle-free dinner option or simply a lover of tender, flavorful chicken, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why save and make this recipe? Well, aside from the convenience and enticing aroma, this slow cooker chicken boasts tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that is infused with the zesty tang of lemon, the earthy fragrance of rosemary, and the subtle sweetness of tomatoes. The long, slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and full of character. Whether you're hosting a gathering with loved ones or treating yourself to a delightful home-cooked meal, this Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is bound to impress.
Now, let's dive into the recipe:
Recipe: Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Ingredients:1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
1/2 cup butter
1 lemons, sliced
A handful of fresh rosemary sprigs
4-6 plum tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper, to taste
For extra flavor, add these seasonings too:
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:1. Begin by preparing the whole chicken. Remove any giblets from the cavity and rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both on the inside and outside. Make sure to season the cavity as well.
3. Place a layer of lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, and tomato halves at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a fragrant bed for the chicken.
4. Carefully place the seasoned whole chicken on top of the lemon, rosemary, and tomato bed in the slow cooker.
5. Pour melted butter over chicken. Add optional seasonings to chicken here.
6. Arrange the remaining lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, and tomato halves around the chicken, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
7. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model and the size of the chicken, so it's best to check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
8. Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving dish. Let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
Serve the succulent Slow Cooker Whole Chicken with the aromatic lemon slices, rosemary, and tomatoes from the slow cooker as a delightful garnish. You can also strain the cooking liquid and use it as a flavorful gravy or drizzle it over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
