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Tender Slow Cooker Lemon Garlic Whole Chicken Recipe with Root Vegetables

slow cooker lemon garlic whole chicken - featured image

A simple and comforting slow cooker recipe featuring a juicy whole chicken infused with lemon and garlic, served with tender root vegetables. Perfect for busy nights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (45 lbs)
  • Zest and juice of 2 medium lemons
  • 68 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
  • 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 3 parsnips, peeled and cut into chunks (optional, can substitute with more carrots)
  • 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth (240 ml)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the skin and season generously with salt, pepper, and half the garlic cloves, including inside the cavity.
  2. Zest both lemons and squeeze the juice into a small bowl. Mix the lemon juice with the remaining garlic cloves and thyme.
  3. Peel and chop carrots, parsnips, and potatoes into 1 to 1.5 inch chunks. Toss with a pinch of salt and pepper and spread evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Place the chicken breast-side up on top of the vegetables. Pour the lemon-garlic-thyme mixture over and around the chicken. Sprinkle lemon zest on top.
  5. Pour chicken broth around the edges of the slow cooker.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
  7. Remove chicken carefully and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Scoop out vegetables and arrange on a serving platter. Pour some cooking liquid over the chicken and vegetables or reduce it on the stove for a pan sauce.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help crisp the skin. Do not lift the lid during cooking to maintain heat. Use Yukon Gold potatoes to prevent them from falling apart. For crispier skin, broil the chicken for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking. Adjust broth quantity to avoid soggy vegetables. Fresh garlic is preferred over pre-minced.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, lemon garlic chicken, whole chicken recipe, root vegetables, easy dinner, comfort food, crock-pot chicken