Description
A tender and flavorful slow cooker whole chicken recipe that's perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and finished under the broiler for crispy skin. This hands-off method uses a slow cooker to gently cook the chicken to juicy perfection, making it an easy family dinner option.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 5 lb whole chicken (neck and giblets removed)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
Other
- Cooking spray
- Heavy duty aluminum foil (for making a foil ring rack)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika to create a balanced seasoning blend.
- Prepare Slow Cooker and Rack: Lightly coat the inside of a large slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, roll a piece of heavy duty aluminum foil into a ring shape sized to fit inside the slow cooker to act as a rack to elevate the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Place the whole chicken on top of the foil ring inside the slow cooker. Rub the prepared spice mixture evenly all over the surface of the chicken, ensuring full coverage for optimum flavor.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the chicken on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C) or higher to ensure it is safely cooked.
- Broil for Crispy Skin: Carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a sheet pan or baking dish. Place under a preheated oven broiler for 4 to 5 minutes, watching closely until the chicken skin becomes golden brown and crispy. Remove and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked fully without drying it out.
- If you don't have heavy duty aluminum foil, you can place a slow cooker rack or heatproof trivet inside instead.
- Adjust seasoning to taste or add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional aroma.
- Be careful during broiling as skin can burn quickly; keep a close eye to get perfect crispiness.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking for juicier meat before carving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American