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Crockpot Whole Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika

Instructions:

  1. Place the whole chicken directly into the ceramic crockpot.
  2. Dust the chicken generously with garlic powder and paprika.
  3. Do not add any water; the chicken will create its own broth during cooking.
  4. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on high for about 5 hours.
  5. Ten minutes before serving, prepare a spinach/romaine salad and steam a few cauliflower florets.
  6. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and set aside to cool slightly.
  7. Pour any remaining broth from the crockpot into a Ziploc bag and freeze it for future use.
  8. When ready to use the frozen broth, simply thaw it out and use it in place of store-bought broth for added flavor in soups and other dishes.
  9. Enjoy the deliciously cooked whole chicken with your favorite sides!

This simple and convenient recipe yields a tender and flavorful whole chicken with minimal effort. Plus, utilizing the homemade broth adds depth of flavor to future meals.

Tips for Making Crockpot Whole Chicken:

  1. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the garlic powder and paprika; generously seasoning the chicken ensures flavorful results.
  2. Use a Whole Chicken: Using a whole chicken rather than individual pieces helps to retain moisture and flavor during the slow cooking process.
  3. Skip the Water: Allowing the chicken to cook without adding water allows it to create its own delicious broth, enhancing the flavor of the meat.
  4. Cook on High: Cooking the chicken on high for about 5 hours ensures it reaches the appropriate internal temperature for safe consumption while remaining tender and juicy.
  5. Make Ahead: Save time by preparing the chicken in the crockpot ahead of time and freezing any leftover broth for future use.
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FAQs:

1. Can I use different seasonings?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the chicken to your liking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is done?

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the meat.

3. Can I cook the chicken on low heat instead?

  • Yes, you can cook the chicken on low heat for 8-10 hours if you prefer a longer cooking time.

4. How long can I store the frozen broth?

  • The frozen broth can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. Be sure to label the bag with the date for reference.

5. Can I use the leftover chicken for other recipes?

  • Absolutely! Leftover chicken can be used in a variety of recipes such as soups, salads, sandwiches, and casseroles.