Put raw whole chicken in a slow cooker with these 3 ingredients. It’s better than rotisserie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by removing any giblets from the cavity of the chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This is an important step to help the skin crisp up during cooking. You want the chicken as dry as possible on the outside.

2. Season the Chicken

Rub the entire chicken with olive oil (or butter) to coat it evenly. Then, season it generously with your seasoning packet or your spice mix of choice. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the skin, as well as inside the cavity of the chicken, for maximum flavor.

If you’re using fresh herbs, you can place a few sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or sage inside the chicken’s cavity for extra fragrance and flavor.

3. Place the Chicken in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up in the slow cooker. No need to add any liquid; the chicken will release its own juices as it cooks, which will create a natural broth. The slow cooker will do the rest of the work, gently cooking the chicken to perfection.

4. Slow Cook the Chicken

Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Cooking it on low allows the chicken to become super tender and juicy. If you’re in a rush, cooking it on high will still yield a delicious result, but the low setting truly makes a difference in texture.

5. Finishing Touches

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. It will be so tender that it may fall apart when you try to lift it. If you want to crisp up the skin a bit more, you can transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.

Why It’s Better Than Rotisserie

1. Flavor: This slow-cooked chicken is packed with flavor because it’s infused with the seasoning from the inside out, as well as the natural juices that develop during cooking. The spices permeate the meat, making every bite tender and flavorful. Unlike a rotisserie chicken, which often has a dry exterior, this chicken is moist and juicy, with a rich depth of flavor.
2. Texture: The slow cooking process creates a chicken that’s incredibly tender. The meat literally falls off the bone, making it perfect for shredding and using in sandwiches, tacos, salads, or simply served on its own. The skin, when broiled at the end, becomes crispy and delicious, adding a satisfying crunch to the otherwise tender meat.
3. Convenience: Unlike the store-bought rotisserie chicken that often has a limited shelf life, this slow cooker version is something you can customize with your own seasoning, ensuring it’s exactly how you like it. Plus, you can set it and forget it! No need to keep an eye on the oven or worry about it drying out. The slow cooker handles everything for you.
4. Cost-Effective: Whole chickens are often much more affordable than purchasing pre-cooked rotisserie chickens. Not only are you getting more meat for your dollar, but you’re also using your slow cooker to make an entire meal without the added cost of restaurant or takeout options.

Serving Ideas

Once your chicken is cooked, you can use it in a variety of ways:

• Shredded Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken and toss it with your favorite taco toppings. Serve with tortillas, salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Chicken Salad: Shred the chicken and mix it with mayo, celery, and seasonings for a refreshing chicken salad.
• Comforting Chicken Soup: Use the bones and leftover meat to make a hearty chicken soup by adding vegetables, herbs, and broth.
• Chicken Sandwiches: Pile the shredded chicken on a soft bun with your favorite condiments for an easy and delicious sandwich.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Your Dinner Routine

Cooking a whole chicken in a slow cooker with just three simple ingredients is not only incredibly easy but also results in a meal that’s tastier and more affordable than many alternatives. Whether you’re looking to save time, money, or simply enjoy a more flavorful, tender chicken, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and you might just find that it’s better than any rotisserie chicken you’ve ever bought!