Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
Instructions:
- Place the whole chicken directly into the ceramic crockpot.
- Dust the chicken generously with garlic powder and paprika.
- Do not add any water; the chicken will create its own broth during cooking.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on high for about 5 hours.
- Ten minutes before serving, prepare a spinach/romaine salad and steam a few cauliflower florets.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and set aside to cool slightly.
- Pour any remaining broth from the crockpot into a Ziploc bag and freeze it for future use.
- 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.
- 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:
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the garlic powder and paprika; generously seasoning the chicken ensures flavorful results.
- Use a Whole Chicken: Using a whole chicken rather than individual pieces helps to retain moisture and flavor during the slow cooking process.
- 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.
- 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.
- Make Ahead: Save time by preparing the chicken in the crockpot ahead of time and freezing any leftover broth for future use.
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.