Savory Slow Cooker Herb Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

If you're on the hunt for a cozy, no-fuss meal, this Savory Slow Cooker Herb Chicken is your ticket. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a succulent, flavorful chicken that's perfect for any family dinner or gathering.

Ingredients for Savory Slow Cooker Herb Chicken

Whole chicken serves as the hearty foundation of the dish, absorbing the rich flavors of our herbs and spices. Salt and black pepper enhance and balance the natural taste of the chicken. Paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while dried thyme and rosemary infuse a woodsy aroma that complements the savory notes. Garlic powder and onion powder provide a robust, earthy base. Lemon slices introduce a zesty brightness that lifts the overall flavor profile. Chicken broth keeps the chicken moist and juicy as it cooks. Olive oil is used for searing, giving the chicken a beautiful, golden crust. Lastly, onion and garlic cloves create a fragrant bed for the chicken, enhancing flavor as they cook and soften.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes after slow cooking.
  • Use fresh herbs if you have them available; they can add a more vibrant flavor.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the broth.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a light, fresh salad to balance the richness of the chicken. You could also serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller pieces may cook faster.
Is it okay to use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, fresh garlic can be used and will offer a stronger flavor. Be sure to mince it finely.
What should I do if the chicken looks dry?
If the chicken appears dry, make sure it hasn’t overcooked. Adding a bit more broth or a drizzle of olive oil can help as well.

Savory Slow Cooker Herb Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by rinsing your whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken, ensuring you get under the skin for maximum flavor.

Heat up olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear it on all sides until it’s nice and golden brown. This step locks in the flavor and gives the skin a delicious texture.

In your slow cooker, arrange the onion and minced garlic at the bottom. Carefully place the seared chicken on top of the onion and garlic. Pour chicken broth into the slow cooker, ensuring it doesn’t wash away the herbs. Top the chicken with lemon slices which will infuse a refreshing citrusy aroma as it cooks.

Set your slow cooker on low and let it work its magic for 6 to 7 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender and cooked through. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each serving is moist and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless preparation — let the slow cooker do the work.
  • Rich, herb-infused flavor that permeates every bite.
  • Perfect for meal prep, leaving you with tender, juicy leftovers.
  • Minimal clean-up, thanks to the one-pot approach.

Ingredients

4 lbs whole chicken
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp rosemary
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 lemon, sliced
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown.
5. Place the onion and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
6. Place the chicken on top of the onions and garlic.
7. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.
8. Add lemon slices on top of the chicken.
9. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
10. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!