Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken: A Simple and Delicious Homemade Meal

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Craving rotisserie chicken but don’t have time to stand by the oven? This Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken recipe is the answer! Perfectly seasoned and incredibly tender, this chicken falls off the bone, making it an easy, hands-off way to enjoy a homemade rotisserie-style meal. With just a few spices and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a delicious and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients and Preparation

To make this delicious slow cooker rotisserie chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Whole Chicken: One whole chicken (about 4 pounds) with the neck and giblets removed.
• Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon of chili powder adds a subtle kick of heat.
• Smoked Paprika: 3 teaspoons of smoked paprika give the chicken a rich, smoky flavor.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon of garlic powder adds depth and a hint of savory garlic taste.
• Dried Parsley: 2 teaspoons of dried parsley provide a touch of freshness and herbal flavor.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon of dried thyme enhances the chicken with a classic herb flavor.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and balances the flavors.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste) is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by spraying your slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Roll four balls of aluminum foil and place them in the bottom of the greased slow cooker. These will act as a makeshift rack to elevate the chicken, keeping it out of its own juices so it cooks more evenly and the skin stays dry.
2. Prep the Chicken: Remove the neck and giblets from the chicken cavity, rinse the chicken with water, and pat it dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the skin will crisp up nicely if you choose to broil it later.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken’s skin, making sure to cover it evenly. This spice rub is what gives the chicken that classic rotisserie flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on top of the aluminum foil balls in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on low for 7 to 7.5 hours, or on high for 4 to 4.5 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Slow cooking at a low temperature allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, while the spices infuse the meat with flavor.
5. Carefully Remove the Chicken: When the chicken is done cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Because it’s so tender, the chicken may fall apart easily, so be gentle when transferring it to a serving dish.
6. Optional Step – Broil for Crispy Skin: If you prefer crispier skin, place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as the skin can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly.
7. Serve: Once the chicken is ready, carve it and serve as desired. This rotisserie-style chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes.

Why Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken?

Slow cooking is an easy and effective way to prepare a whole chicken, especially when you want tender meat without much effort. By using a slow cooker, you allow the chicken to cook in its own juices, resulting in moist, flavorful meat. The spice rub gives it that classic rotisserie flavor you love, and with the added step of broiling, you can even achieve a crispy skin.

Tips for Success

• Choosing the Right Chicken: A 4-pound chicken is ideal for this recipe, as it fits comfortably in most slow cookers. If you’re using a larger chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste. Add some cumin for a smokier flavor, or throw in some lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Don’t Skip the Foil Balls: The aluminum foil balls create a makeshift rack that helps the chicken cook more evenly. Without them, the chicken would sit in its own juices, which could result in soggy skin and uneven cooking.
• Keep It Moist: If you’re worried about the chicken drying out, you can add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the slow cooker. However, this is usually unnecessary as the slow cooker’s sealed environment helps retain moisture.

Nutritional Information

This Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken is a nutritious option for those looking for a wholesome meal. The calories will depend on the size of the chicken and how much skin is consumed, but on average, a 4-ounce serving of chicken (without skin) provides around 200 calories, 26 grams of protein, and 10 grams of fat.

Final Thoughts

With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken is a winner for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of spices and the slow cooking process creates a flavorful, tender chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as the main course or use it as the base for other dishes like salads or sandwiches, this recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to your meal rotation.