A slow cooker full chicken dinner is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal without a lot of hands-on effort. Originating from traditional pot roast recipes, this dish allows you to savor the robust flavors of a whole chicken, infused with fragrant herbs and vegetables, in one pot. It’s an excellent option for busy families, as the preparation is minimal, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Not to mention, it’s a great way to enjoy a homemade meal that feels like a Sunday dinner but can be prepared any day of the week.

This slow cooker full chicken dinner pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with some buttery mashed potatoes or a crusty bread to soak up the savory juices. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or carrots can add a delightful crunch and balance to the meal. For a comforting and complete dinner, you might also enjoy it with a side of fragrant rice or quinoa.

Servings: 4-6 servings

1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 lemon, quartered
4 cloves garlic, smashed
1 large onion, roughly chopped
4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
4 celery stalks, cut into chunks
1 cup chicken broth

1. Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.

3. Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken, including inside the cavity, ensuring even coverage.

4. Stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon quarters and smashed garlic cloves.

5. Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of your slow cooker.

6. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables.

7. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.

8. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, registering an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

9. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

10. Serve the chicken alongside the cooked vegetables, and drizzle with some of the flavorful broth from the slow cooker.

For a different flavor profile, try using a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley instead of dried herbs. You can also add other root vegetables such as potatoes or parsnips to the mix for added heartiness. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the seasoning rub. Additionally, for a more citrusy note, try adding some orange wedges along with the lemon into the chicken cavity.

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