Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the warmth of homemade cooking right to your table. This easy and healthy recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-style rotisserie chicken in the comfort of your home. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this chicken is versatile enough to be served as the main attraction or shredded for other recipes. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it’s sure to impress at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Just set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
- Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of spices creates a deliciously seasoned chicken that rivals any store-bought rotisserie.
- Healthy Option: Using a whole chicken means you control the ingredients, making it a healthier choice for you and your family.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy it as-is, or shred it for salads, sandwiches, and more.
- Tender Meat: Slow cooking ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender throughout.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Aluminum foil
- Cooking spray
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-free cooking, making it perfect for busy days.
- Aluminum foil: Creates a makeshift rack that keeps the chicken elevated, allowing juices to flow underneath, enhancing flavor.
- Whisk: Helps combine spices evenly for a well-seasoned chicken.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs.)- neck and giblets removed
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 3 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (more or less-to taste)
How to Make Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray.
- Roll 4 balls of aluminum foil and place them on the bottom of the greased slow cooker. This will act as a rack for the chicken, keeping it elevated above the juices.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Remove neck and giblets from the chicken.
- Rinse the chicken under water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, whisk together salt, pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, parsley, thyme, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Rub this seasoning mix all over the skin of the chicken.
Step 4: Slow 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 7-7.5 hours or on high for 4-4.5 hours until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Step 5: Serve Your Chicken
- Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker; it’s very tender and may fall apart easily.
- Serve as desired! If you want crispier skin, place on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
Enjoy your homemade Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken as a wholesome dinner option that everyone will love!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want it as a main dish or as part of another meal, there are numerous serving ideas to explore.
As a Main Dish
- Serve the chicken whole for a stunning centerpiece at dinner.
- Shred the meat and use it in tacos for a quick and tasty meal.
In Sandwiches
- Create delicious sandwiches with shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and your favorite veggies.
- Use BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor in pulled chicken sandwiches.
In Salads
- Toss shredded chicken into greens for a protein-packed salad.
- Combine with quinoa, veggies, and dressing for a wholesome grain bowl.
In Soups
- Add shredded chicken to soups for extra flavor and protein.
- Use the leftover juices from the slow cooker to enhance soup broth.
With Sides
- Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner.
- Serve over rice or pasta for a hearty meal option.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Choose the right chicken: A fresh, whole chicken often yields better taste than frozen ones.
- Season well: Don’t skimp on seasoning; rub it generously all over the skin for maximum flavor.
- Use aluminum foil: Elevating the chicken helps keep it out of its juices, promoting even cooking and crispier skin.
- Monitor cooking times: Check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked without being dry.
- Broil for crispiness: If you prefer crispy skin, broil the chicken after cooking briefly before serving.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest before carving to retain its juices.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some perfect options that complement this dish beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic make an excellent side that pairs well with juicy chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the tender meat of the chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side that brings summer vibes to your dinner table.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the flavors of rotisserie chicken wonderfully.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy green option that balances richness from the chicken.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add sweetness and depth to your meal, creating a comforting vibe.
- Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with fresh herbs and lemon zest brings brightness alongside savory chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken is simple, but common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken well can lead to bland results. Make sure to rub in the spice mix thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Not using a rack: Placing the chicken directly on the bottom of the slow cooker can cause it to sit in its juices, resulting in soggy skin. Use aluminum foil balls as a rack for better cooking.
- Opening the lid too often: Each time you open the slow cooker, heat escapes and can extend cooking time. Try to resist the urge to peek before the timer goes off.
- Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking times may vary, so always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and doneness.
- Not letting it rest: Cutting into your chicken right away can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for juicier meat.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
- Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen chicken is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover chicken with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place pieces on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes) until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, covered, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken?
Cooking on low takes about 7-7.5 hours, while high takes around 4-4.5 hours. Always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s recommended to thaw it fully before cooking. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and longer cook times.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or salads. You can also shred it for tacos or sandwiches!
Can I customize the seasoning for my Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs and spices like rosemary or lemon zest based on your preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken recipe is not only easy but also offers a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it as-is or use leftovers creatively in other dishes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings to make it your own!
Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken
Slow Cooker Rotisserie Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish that brings the taste of homemade rotisserie chicken to your kitchen. This easy recipe requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy juicy chicken without the need for constant monitoring. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, you can serve it whole or shred it for various dishes like tacos, salads, and sandwiches. The blend of spices creates a deliciously seasoned chicken that will impress at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 3 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray and place aluminum foil balls at the bottom to elevate the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken by removing neck and giblets, rinsing, and patting dry.
- In a bowl, whisk together all seasonings and rub generously over the chicken.
- Place seasoned chicken on top of foil balls in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 7-7.5 hours or high for 4-4.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For crispy skin, broil on a baking sheet for an additional 3-5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 chicken (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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