Slow Cooker Full Chicken Dinner

Slow Cooker Full Chicken Dinner is an effortless way to prepare a hearty and comforting meal that includes a whole chicken, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. With the slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss. The tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables make for a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Slow Cooker Full Chicken Dinner

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 lemon, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 large carrots, cut into chunks
• 1 pound baby potatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it all over to coat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
3. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved lemon and smashed garlic cloves.

Step 2: Assemble the Vegetables

1. Place the quartered onion, carrot chunks, and baby potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables.

Step 3: Add the Chicken

1. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker, breast side up.

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

1. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
2. Serve the chicken with the vegetables, and spoon some of the cooking juices over the top for added flavor.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Broiling Option: For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy.
• Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or celery to the slow cooker for added variety.
• Flavor Boost: Add fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme sprigs, to the slow cooker for extra flavor.

Variations

• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add extra lemon juice and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme for a bright, herbaceous flavor.
• Garlic Butter Chicken: Rub softened garlic butter under the chicken skin for a richer flavor.
• Spicy Chicken Dinner: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a little kick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Pieces Instead of a Whole Chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. The cooking time may be slightly reduced, so check for doneness around the 4-5 hour mark on low heat.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

3. Can I Make Gravy with the Cooking Juices?

Yes! Strain the cooking juices and transfer them to a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat and thicken with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) until the desired consistency is reached.

4. What Can I Serve with This Chicken Dinner?

This meal is well-rounded on its own, but you can serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or steamed green beans for a complete meal.

Slow Cooker Full Chicken Dinner is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender, juicy chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables, this dish delivers all the flavors of a traditional roasted chicken dinner without the fuss. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with minimal effort.

Happy cooking!