Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Herb-Brined Roasted Chicken recipe.
I can’t tell you how easy it’s to prepare; just marinate the chicken overnight, and let the slow cooker do all the work the next day.
The flavors from the herbs infuse the meat, creating a juicy and tender result that’ll impress anyone at the dinner table.
Plus, it fills your home with an irresistible aroma, making it hard to resist.
I appreciate that I can set it and forget it, freeing up my time for other tasks.
Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your home, delivering comfort and satisfaction with minimal effort!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken
When it comes to whipping up a delightful meal without spending hours in the kitchen, the ingredients for Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken are what you’ll need to gather. This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, so let’s break down what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish. You might even find yourself wondering why you didn’t try this sooner.
Trust me, the whole process feels like a cheat code for dinner!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 cups water
- 1/2 cup kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided
- 2 teaspoons rosemary, divided
- 2 teaspoons thyme, divided
- 2 teaspoons oregano, divided
- 3-4 lbs young roasting chickens, rinsed, with neck and giblets removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooking spray
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations when gathering your ingredients. First off, the quality of the chicken can really make a difference in the final dish. If you can, choose a fresh, organic bird; it often results in a juicier and more flavorful outcome.
And don’t skimp on the herbs; they’re the stars of this show. Fresh herbs can elevate the taste, but if dried is what you have on hand, that’ll work too. Just remember, dried herbs are generally more concentrated, so you might want to use a bit less.
Finally, if you’re not a fan of certain flavors, feel free to mix and match the herbs to suit your palate. Making this recipe your own is part of the fun, so don’t be shy!
How to Make Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken
Making Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken is as easy as pie—well, maybe easier, since there’s no pie crust involved. To start, you’ll need to prepare your marinade. Grab a pitcher and combine 6 cups of water with 1/2 cup of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon each of rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Whisk it all together until the salt is dissolved; it should look like a lovely brine.
Then, take your 3-4 lbs young roasting chicken (make sure it’s rinsed and the giblets are out—trust me, you don’t want those in your dinner) and place it in a large zip-top bag. Pour that flavorful liquid goodness into the bag, seal it tight, and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for 12 to 24 hours—it’s like giving your chicken a spa day, and who doesn’t love that?
When you’re ready to cook, spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This step is essential unless you want to be scraping chicken remnants off the sides later, which, let’s be honest, is nobody’s idea of a good time.
After draining and discarding the brine (sorry, chicken spa is over), place your bird in the slow cooker breast-side down. Here comes the fun part: drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken. It’s like giving it a little massage.
Then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, along with 1 teaspoon each of rosemary, thyme, and oregano on top. Cover it up and set your slow cooker to LOW for 6 hours. Now, you can kick back, relax, and maybe binge-watch your favorite show.
Just make sure to check the chicken’s doneness with an instant-read thermometer—it should hit 170 degrees. Once it’s done, let it rest in the covered slow cooker for about 10 minutes.
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for: a perfectly roasted, herb-infused chicken that’s practically begging to be devoured. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken Substitutions & Variations
While the Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser as it stands, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For a different flavor profile, try adding citrus zest or juice, like lemon or orange, to the brine. You can also swap out the herbs; fresh dill or sage can bring a unique twist.
If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes. For a more robust taste, consider using smoked paprika.
If you’re working with a smaller chicken, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Finally, feel free to use a mix of chicken parts instead of a whole bird for a quicker meal.
Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken
To complement the rich flavors of Slow Cooker Herb Roasted Chicken, I like to serve it with a variety of sides that enhance the meal.
Creamy mashed potatoes are a must; they soak up the delicious juices from the chicken. I also enjoy pairing it with roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, which add a nice crunch and brightness.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the savory chicken perfectly. For something heartier, I sometimes whip up a wild rice pilaf, giving the dish an earthy flavor.
Finally, a crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any remaining juices, making sure nothing goes to waste.
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing Slow Cooker Herb-Brined Roasted Chicken, it’s essential to remember a few key tips that can elevate your dish.
First, always allow your chicken to marinate for the full 12-24 hours; this enhances the flavor considerably. If you’re short on time, even a few hours can make a difference.
I recommend using a young roasting chicken for the best texture and taste. For an extra crispy skin, consider broiling the chicken briefly after it’s done cooking.
Don’t forget to rest the bird before serving; this helps the juices redistribute.
Finally, feel free to experiment with herbs based on your preferences—fresh herbs can really make a difference in flavor.
Enjoy your delicious creation!