Roast Chicken in Slow Cooker Recipe: Tender and Juicy

Imagine returning home to the enticing aroma of a perfectly cooked roast chicken. With a slow cooker, you can effortlessly achieve a tender and juicy dish by coating the chicken with olive oil and spices and letting it cook.
To ensure the chicken stays moist, resist lifting the lid during cooking. For crispy skin, there's a simple technique that adds a delightful crunch to each bite, offering more to discover.
Key Takeaways
- Use a whole chicken with olive oil to ensure it remains moist and tender.
- Coat the chicken with paprika, garlic powder, and salt for enhanced flavor.
- Cook the chicken in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to retain heat and moisture.
- Broil the chicken for 3-5 minutes post-cooking for crispy skin.
Recipe
For a deliciously simple meal, a slow cooker roast chicken is an excellent choice. This method allows you to create a succulent, flavorful dish with minimal effort. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken stays moist and tender as it bastes in its own juices, making it perfect for busy days when you want to set it and forget it.
With a few basic ingredients and a hands-off approach, you can have a meal that tastes like it took much more time and effort to prepare. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using only olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt, you can enhance the natural flavors of the chicken without overwhelming it.
The result is a perfectly seasoned bird that pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes. This versatile dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
To prepare the slow cooker roast chicken, begin by placing the whole chicken inside your slow cooker. Rub the chicken thoroughly with olive oil, ensuring it's evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, and salt, then apply this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) by checking at the thickest part of the thigh. For a crispy skin, you can place the cooked chicken under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
To ensure the best results, avoid lifting the slow cooker lid during the cooking process, as this releases the heat and moisture that contribute to the chicken's tenderness. If you want to use the leftover liquid for gravy or soup, consider adding some herbs or additional seasoning to enhance the flavor.
The resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and delicious. Finally, pair the chicken with your favorite sides to complete the meal.
Cooking Steps
Get ready to transform your chicken into a delicious masterpiece by generously applying olive oil, ensuring every inch is covered.
Next, coat the chicken with a flavorful blend of paprika, garlic powder, and salt, setting the stage for a mouthwatering meal.
Once seasoned, let the slow cooker work its magic by covering and cooking slowly, resisting the urge to lift the lid, and consider broiling the chicken at the end for irresistibly crispy skin.
Step 1. Apply Olive Oil Generously

To ensure your chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, start by applying olive oil generously over the entire bird. Don't be shy! This step is essential for creating a moist, succulent roast.
Pour a couple of tablespoons of olive oil into your hands, then rub it all over the chicken, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. The olive oil acts as a barrier, locking in moisture and helping the chicken to cook evenly throughout the slow cooking process.
It also enhances the natural flavor of the meat, giving it a rich, savory taste. Plus, the oil helps any seasonings you'll add next to stick better, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Enjoy the process, and your chicken will thank you!
Step 2. Coat Chicken With Spices

With the olive oil applied, it's time to bring flavor to your chicken by coating it with spices. This is where the magic happens!
In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, and salt until well combined. Don't hold back—use your hands to rub this fragrant mixture all over the chicken, ensuring every inch is covered.
You want each bite to burst with flavor, so take your time and massage the spices into the skin and inside the cavity too. This step infuses the chicken with a rich, savory aroma that will fill your kitchen as it cooks.
Trust me, this simple blend of spices will transform your chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece you'll be eager to share!
Step 3. Cover and Cook Slowly

Once your chicken is fully seasoned, place it in the slow cooker and cover it securely. This step is crucial to trap in the steam and flavors, allowing your chicken to cook slowly in its own juices.
As the slow cooker works its magic, the low heat gently breaks down the fibers, making the meat incredibly tender and juicy. You'll love how easy this process is—simply set your slow cooker to low, and let it work for 6-8 hours, or choose high for a quicker 4-5 hours.
The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible, making the wait entirely worth it. This method not only saves you time but also ensures a delicious, perfectly cooked chicken every single time.
Enjoy the simplicity and richness of this delightful meal!
Step 4. Avoid Lifting Slow Cooker Lid

As your chicken cooks slowly, it's tempting to lift the lid and check on its progress, but patience is key here.
Every time you lift the lid, you let precious heat escape, which extends the cooking time and affects the tenderness of your chicken.
The slow cooker thrives on maintaining a consistent temperature, allowing the chicken to baste in its own juices, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Trust the process; resist peeking, and you'll be rewarded with a perfectly cooked bird.
Keep that lid sealed, and let the magic happen inside.
You'll be amazed at how the chicken transforms, becoming tender and juicy with minimal effort.
Step 5. Broil Chicken for Crisp Skin

Ever wondered how to achieve that perfectly crisp skin on your slow-cooked chicken? It's easier than you think!
Once your chicken is tender and juicy from hours in the slow cooker, don't skip the broiling step. Preheat your oven's broiler and transfer the chicken onto a baking sheet.
Place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. You'll see the skin transform into a golden, crispy layer that's simply irresistible.
This final touch adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor. So, go ahead and embrace this extra step—your taste buds will thank you!
Plus, you'll have a dish that's not only delicious but also visually stunning, perfect for impressing family and friends.
Final Thoughts
A slow cooker roast chicken isn't just simple; it's a game-changer for your meal planning.
Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of perfectly cooked chicken, ready to be enjoyed. This method saves you time and effort, letting you focus on other things without compromising on flavor or tenderness.
The beauty of using a slow cooker is that it does all the work, turning basic ingredients into a delicious meal that's both tender and juicy.
Don't hesitate to try this recipe for your next dinner. You'll find that the slow cooker transforms your kitchen routine, offering a convenient yet satisfying solution for busy days.
Plus, the leftover chicken and juices provide the perfect base for soups or gravies, extending the meal's enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Frozen Chicken in the Slow Cooker?
You absolutely can use a frozen chicken in the slow cooker, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking.
If you're in a pinch, place the frozen chicken in the slow cooker and add an extra hour to the cooking time.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
This method still promises juicy, flavorful results.
What Vegetables Pair Well With Slow-Cooked Chicken?
You'll hit the jackpot by pairing slow-cooked chicken with hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions.
These veggies soak up the savory juices, adding rich flavors and delightful textures.
Try adding bell peppers or mushrooms for a splash of color and extra taste.
Just toss them into the slow cooker with your chicken.
They cook perfectly together, making your meal even more satisfying and mouth-watering.
Give it a whirl, and watch your dinner table delight!
How Can I Store Leftover Slow-Cooked Chicken?
You've got delicious leftover chicken, and storing it right keeps it tasty for future meals.
Wrap the chicken tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, where it'll stay fresh for up to four days.
If you're planning to save it longer, freeze it! Just make sure to label with the date.
Reheat gently to keep it juicy, and savor that slow-cooked flavor all over again!
Can I Substitute Olive Oil With Another Oil?
Absolutely, you can swap olive oil with other oils!
Try using canola, sunflower, or avocado oil for a similar effect. Each oil adds its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment and see what you love best.
Just make sure the oil you choose can handle the slow cooking process.
This flexibility allows you to personalize your dish, making it even more enjoyable and tailored to your taste.
Happy cooking!
Is It Safe to Cook Chicken on High for a Shorter Time?
You're in luck! Cooking chicken on high for a shorter time is safe and can still deliver a scrumptious meal, as long as you ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
This method is perfect when you're short on time but still crave that fall-off-the-bone goodness.
Keep the lid closed as much as possible to lock in heat and moisture.
With a bit of patience, you'll have a delightful, juicy chicken ready to enjoy!