Roast chicken is a classic dish that never goes out of style. It’s a staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and can be served with a variety of sides. While traditional roast chicken is cooked in the oven, using a slow cooker is a great alternative that can result in a tender, juicy, and flavorful bird. In this article, we’ll show you how to make roast chicken in a slow cooker, including the benefits of using this method, the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect roast chicken.
The Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker for Roast Chicken
Using a slow cooker to make roast chicken has several benefits. Here are a few:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are designed to be hands-off, meaning you can add your ingredients and let the cooker do the work while you’re busy with other tasks.
- Tender meat: The low heat and moisture of a slow cooker can result in incredibly tender meat that’s easy to shred or carve.
- Easy cleanup: Slow cookers are generally easy to clean, and you can often cook your chicken in a single pot, reducing the amount of dishes you need to wash.
- Flexibility: Slow cookers are great for busy households, as you can cook your chicken while you’re at work or running errands.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make roast chicken in a slow cooker, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 slow cooker (at least 6 quarts in size)
Optional Ingredients
You can also add the following ingredients to enhance the flavor of your roast chicken:
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Roast Chicken in a Slow Cooker
Now that we’ve covered the benefits and ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets and neck from the cavity.
Step 2: Mix the Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Rub the Chicken
Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Add the sliced onion to the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the quartered lemon on top of the onion.
Step 5: Add the Chicken
Place the chicken in the slow cooker, breast side up.
Step 6: Add the Chicken Broth
Pour the chicken broth over the chicken, making sure that the chicken is mostly submerged.
Step 7: Cook the Chicken
Cook the chicken on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Step 8: Check the Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 180°F (82°C) in the thigh.
Step 9: Let it Rest
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker: Make sure that the chicken has enough room to cook evenly. If you’re cooking a larger chicken, you may need to use a larger slow cooker.
- Add some acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar can add brightness and balance out the flavors of the dish.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding different spices or herbs to the rub to give the chicken more flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making roast chicken in a slow cooker:
- Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken regularly to avoid overcooking.
- Not browning the chicken: Browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker can add flavor and texture to the dish.
- Not using enough liquid: Make sure to use enough chicken broth to cover the chicken and keep it moist.
Conclusion
Making roast chicken in a slow cooker is a great way to cook a delicious and tender bird with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering roast chicken that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
What are the benefits of cooking roast chicken in a slow cooker?
Cooking roast chicken in a slow cooker offers several benefits. For one, it allows for hands-off cooking, which means you can prepare the ingredients, place them in the slow cooker, and let the appliance do the work while you attend to other tasks. This is especially convenient for busy individuals who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
Another benefit of slow-cooking roast chicken is that it results in tender and juicy meat. The low heat and moisture-rich environment of the slow cooker break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it fall-apart tender. Additionally, the slow cooker helps to retain the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
What type of chicken is best suited for slow-cooking?
When it comes to slow-cooking roast chicken, it’s best to use a whole chicken or chicken pieces with the bone and skin intact. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs may become dry and overcooked in the slow cooker. A whole chicken or chicken pieces with the bone and skin help to keep the meat moist and add flavor to the dish.
You can use either a fresh or frozen whole chicken for slow-cooking. If using a frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it first before cooking. It’s also essential to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture and promote even browning.
What are the essential ingredients for slow-cooked roast chicken?
The essential ingredients for slow-cooked roast chicken include the chicken itself, aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs. You can also add other ingredients like potatoes, garlic, and lemon to enhance the flavor of the dish.
The key to a delicious slow-cooked roast chicken is to use high-quality ingredients and to not be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices. You can use fresh or dried herbs, and add other aromatics like bay leaves or thyme to create a unique flavor profile.
How do I prepare the slow cooker for cooking roast chicken?
To prepare the slow cooker for cooking roast chicken, start by greasing the bottom and sides of the slow cooker with oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the slow cooker and make cleanup easier.
Next, add the aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the bottom of the slow cooker. You can also add other ingredients like potatoes and garlic at this stage. Finally, place the chicken on top of the aromatics and add the seasonings and spices.
How long does it take to cook roast chicken in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for roast chicken in a slow cooker depends on the size of the chicken and the desired level of doneness. Generally, a whole chicken takes around 6-8 hours to cook on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat.
It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking a whole chicken.
Can I cook roast chicken in a slow cooker on high heat?
Yes, you can cook roast chicken in a slow cooker on high heat, but it’s not recommended. Cooking on high heat can result in a less tender and less flavorful dish. The high heat can also cause the chicken to dry out and become overcooked.
If you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken on high heat, but make sure to check on it frequently to avoid overcooking. It’s also essential to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as the chicken will cook faster on high heat.
How do I store leftover slow-cooked roast chicken?
To store leftover slow-cooked roast chicken, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. You can store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
When reheating the leftover chicken, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the chicken in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop, depending on your preference.