Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 onion, quartered
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating this Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Whole Chicken is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Season the Chicken: Rub the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. You can also apply some of the marinade inside the cavity for extra flavor.
4. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the quartered onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help elevate the chicken and add flavor.
5. Add the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken on top of the onions in the slow cooker.
6. Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the slow cooker, avoiding pouring it directly on top to keep the seasoning intact.
7. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken (usually the thigh) to ensure it’s cooked through.
9. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
10. Serve: Carve the chicken and serve with the onions and juices from the slow cooker for added flavor.
These steps will guide you in creating this incredible dish effortlessly, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 45g