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Tender Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

A heartwarming and flavorful whole chicken slow cooked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat that elevates any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the base
  • 1 medium yellow onion, sliced into rings You can substitute with red onion if desired for sweetness.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic is best, but pre-minced options work too.
For the chicken
  • 1 piece 3 to 4 lb whole chicken Opt for organic or pasture-raised if possible for a richer flavor.
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil High-quality oil enhances flavor.
  • 2.25 to 3 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste; use sea salt if you prefer.
  • 1 tsp smoked or sweet paprika Smoked adds depth; sweet is more traditional.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Gives an extra punch of flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper Freshly ground is recommended for best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Layer the onion slices and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker to create a fragrant base.
  2. Place the whole chicken on top, breast-side up.
  3. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the bird, then massage it gently into the skin.
  4. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, smoked or sweet paprika, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Season the chicken generously.
  5. If using giblets, toss them around the chicken in the slow cooker.
Cooking
  1. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours.
  2. The chicken is ready when the meat pulls away easily from the bone and a thermometer registers at least 165°F.
  3. If you used giblets, discard them before serving.

Notes

For crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 5-10 minutes after slow cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.