Classic Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken
Discover the magic of a slow-cooked meal with this Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken. It's a simple, hands-off recipe that fills your home with an irresistible aroma, perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend dinner.
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Ingredients for Classic Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken
Chicken is the star here, absorbing the flavors of the herbs and lemon. Choose a 3 lbs whole chicken for the best results. Salt and black pepper are your basic seasonings, enhancing the natural flavors. Olive oil is used to brown the chicken, adding a slight crispness to the skin. Lemon slices add brightness and cut through the richness of the chicken. Garlic, with its deep, pungent flavor, pairs perfectly with the herbs. The trio of dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano give the dish a Mediterranean feel. Lastly, chicken broth ensures the meat remains juicy, while onion adds a subtle sweetness to the mix.
Classic Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken Tips & Tricks
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken with the herbs and garlic overnight.
- If you're short on time, you can skip browning the chicken, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Save the leftover broth as a base for soups or stews.
- Ensure your crock pot lid fits snugly to prevent steam from escaping, keeping your chicken moist.
Serving Ideas for Classic Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken
This chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over mashed potatoes or quinoa.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
- Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; pieces will cook faster.
- What if I don't have all the herbs?
- No worries! Use what you have; the recipe is flexible. Fresh herbs can be used too, just double the quantity.
- Is it possible to cook this on high?
- Yes, you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours, but the texture is best when cooked low and slow.
Classic Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken Recipe Walkthrough
Start by preparing your chicken. Pat it dry with paper towels; this helps the skin crisp up a bit when browning. Season the chicken generously inside and out with salt and pepper. Don't be shy — seasoning is key to a flavorful dish.
Next, heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan, breast side down, and let it brown for a few minutes. Flip it carefully to brown all sides. This step isn't just about looks; it locks in juices and adds flavor.
Transfer your browned chicken to the crock pot. Now it's time to add the flavor boosters: nestle the lemon slices, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and oregano around the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over everything, ensuring it settles at the bottom. Finally, scatter the onion slices around.
Cover the crock pot and set it to low. Let it cook for 6-8 hours. You'll know it's done when the chicken is tender and practically falling off the bone.
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot. It's going to be hot and tender, so handle it gently. Carve and serve it with some of the cooking juices spooned over the top for extra flavor.
Why This Classic Herb Infused Crock Pot Chicken Works
- Effortless preparation with a crock pot doing most of the work.
- Delicate, fall-off-the-bone chicken infused with aromatic herbs.
- Perfect for batch cooking — leftovers make easy meals.
- Aromatic and full of flavor without any fuss.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs whole chicken
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 onion, sliced
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Pat the chicken dry and season inside and out with salt and pepper.
- 2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and brown the chicken on all sides.
- 3. Transfer the chicken to the crock pot and add lemon slices, garlic, thyme, rosemary, oregano, chicken broth, and onion.
- 4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- 5. Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot, carve, and serve with the cooking juices.