Super Easy Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken
Satisfy your rotisserie chicken cravings! I toss a whole chicken in the crockpot and coat it in an awesome seasoning blend. I usually leave on most of the yummy skin, but you can also remove it all for a healthier bird. The result? A moist, delicious rotisserie wannabe with virtually no fat. The chicken will yield the most tender, succulent meat youve ever had, Plus, it can feed an army, and makes great leftovers!
Satisfy your rotisserie chicken cravings! I toss a whole chicken in the crockpot and coat it in an awesome seasoning blend. I usually leave on most of the yummy skin, but you can also remove it all for a healthier bird. The result? A moist, delicious rotisserie wannabe with virtually no fat. The chicken will yield the most tender, succulent meat youve ever had, Plus, it can feed an army, and makes great leftovers!
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
- 2 tsp kosher salt (if you’d like it as salty as the ones in the store, add another 1 tsp.)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- pinch of chili pepper (probably not necessary)
- 4 whole garlic cloves (optional but highly recommended)
- 1 yellow onion quartered (optional but highly recommended)
- Carbohydrate 2.14313203125 g
- Cholesterol 189 mg
- Fat 38.04201640625 g
- Fiber 0.427885947838426 g
- Protein 47.1935228125 g
- Saturated Fat 10.884338890625 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (269g)
- Sodium 479.71315 mg
- Sugar 1.71524608341157 g
- Trans Fat 3.24096015625002 g
- Calories 551 calories
Step-by-step
- Use a 6-quart crockpot for a 5-pound bird.
- Skin the chicken and remove the neck and other items from the cavity. (This can take a while. Keep small children away to avoid salmonella concerns.)
- Alternatively, leave the skin on for more fat and better flavor.
- Combine all dried spices in a bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the bird, inside and out.
- Place the bird breast-side down into the crockpot.
- Optionally, add 4 whole garlic cloves and a quartered onion inside the bird.
- Do not add water.
- Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours, or on low for 8 hours. The meat is done when it is fully cooked and has reached desired tenderness. The longer you cook it, the more tender the meat.
My Simple Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and endless to-do lists, the last thing I want is to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of crockpot recipes—they’re practically foolproof, requiring minimal prep time and delivering maximum flavor. This crockpot rotisserie chicken recipe is a perfect example. It's unbelievably easy, requires minimal ingredients, and produces a tender, juicy chicken that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Honestly, the hardest part is remembering to put it in the crockpot in the morning!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You simply toss a whole chicken (I usually grab a 4-5 pounder) into the crockpot, season it generously with a blend of herbs and spices, and let it cook for several hours. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the chicken remains incredibly moist and tender, and the result is a chicken that rivals anything you'd find at a fancy rotisserie. No more dry, stringy chicken here! I usually leave the skin on for extra flavor, but you can certainly remove it if you prefer a leaner option.
Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe is incredibly versatile. The leftover chicken can be used in countless ways: shredded into tacos or salads, diced for chicken soup or pot pies, or simply enjoyed as a satisfying sandwich filling. The possibilities are endless! And honestly, the cleanup is a breeze. One pot, minimal mess. What’s not to love?
My tips for success:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with spices. This recipe is a great base, but feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to your liking. I sometimes add a touch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer. To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest. Before shredding or carving, let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Plan ahead. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare the chicken in the morning and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal when you get home from work.
This crockpot rotisserie chicken recipe has quickly become a staple in my home. It's a lifesaver on busy weeknights and a crowd-pleaser for weekend gatherings. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become one of your go-to recipes too. You'll wonder why you ever spent hours fussing over a chicken in the oven!
Beyond the basics:
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are several ways you can customize it to create different flavor profiles. Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or celery to the crockpot will create a complete one-pot meal. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect blend. For a spicier kick, add a few slices of jalapeño pepper. And don’t forget the versatility of the leftover chicken – it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
I hope you enjoy this simple yet satisfying recipe. It's a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious meals don't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and the magic of the slow cooker, you can create amazing meals even on your busiest days. Happy cooking!
