Slow Cooker Roasted Chicken with Caramelized Vegetables and Herbs
This dish transforms whole chicken minimally handled by using a slow cooker to infuse flavors through gentle cooking. Main ingredients include chicken, garlic, herbs, and seasonal root vegetables, which become tender and flavorful, with a final appearance of golden, caramelized vegetables and moist, falling-apart chicken. The slow cooking process creates a rustic and comforting meal with a rich aroma.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs) preferably with skin
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 bunch fresh thyme plus sprigs for garnish
- 3 large carrots peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 parsnips parsnips peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth for moisture and flavor
Instructions
- Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels, then season it generously with salt and pepper inside and out. Rub minced garlic and olive oil all over the skin, then stuff some sprigs of thyme inside the cavity.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, breast side up, and scatter the remaining sprigs of thyme around it.
- Arrange carrots and parsnips around the chicken, pressing them gently into the bottom of the slow cooker. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour chicken broth over the vegetables, ensuring they are partially submerged to promote caramelization and flavor infusion.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and juices run clear, and the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Carefully lift the chicken out of the slow cooker and place it on a serving platter. Use two forks to shred the meat if desired, or serve whole for a rustic presentation.
- Spoon the cooked vegetables and pan juices over the chicken, allowing their rich flavors to mingle. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a finished look.
Notes
For extra crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil until golden brown for a few minutes before serving.