Description
A simple and flavorful slow cooker rotisserie-style chicken recipe that yields tender, juicy meat with the option for crispy skin. This hands-off recipe combines a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, cooking low and slow for a perfect homemade chicken meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Aromatics
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 onion, quartered (optional)
Additional
- 1 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the entire chicken evenly with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle and rub this seasoning blend all over the chicken, ensuring good coverage.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place the halved lemon, smashed garlic cloves, and optionally the quartered onion inside the chicken cavity to infuse flavor during cooking.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Set the seasoned chicken breast-side up inside the slow cooker. If desired, pour in chicken broth around the chicken to add moisture, though this step is optional depending on your preference for skin texture.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when the internal temperature measures 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Crisp the Skin (Optional): To achieve crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp to your liking.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest covered for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute for moist and tender meat. Serve and enjoy your homemade rotisserie chicken!
Notes
- Using chicken broth in the slow cooker adds moisture but may result in softer skin.
- Broiling after slow cooking is optional but recommended for crispy skin.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Patting the chicken dry is essential for better seasoning adhesion and skin texture.
- You can customize the herb and spice blend to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
