Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken served with herbs and vegetables

Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken is a fantastic dish for anyone looking to create a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a tender, juicy chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. This recipe is great for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the leftovers make excellent sandwiches or salads, making it a versatile choice for any day of the week!

how to make Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 2 kg / 4 lb whole chicken, patted dry (Note 1)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2.5 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter), plus extra for drizzling
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large lemon, all zest + all juice
  • 1 tbsp cornflour/cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
  • 1 extra lemon, just in case

Directions:

  1. Rub: In a bowl, mix the rub ingredients until they feel fairly thick and sludgy. If it’s too thick, add a little extra oil.
  2. Loosen Skin: Use the back of a spoon to loosen the skin of the chicken. Spoon most of the rub under the skin, leaving about 1 tablespoon of mostly oil for the skin. Use your hands or the spoon to spread the rub over the skin. It doesn’t need to be perfect.
  3. Stuff Chicken: Place the used lemon inside the chicken cavity.
  4. Prepare Slow Cooker: Put a rack inside the slow cooker and place the chicken on top. Spread the remaining rub over the chicken and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  5. Cook: Slow cook on low for 5 hours or high for 3 hours, until the juices run clear or the internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F using a meat thermometer. (Refer to Note 4 for other cooking methods).
  6. Brown Skin: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and drizzle it with a bit of extra oil. Broil or grill on medium-high for about 5 to 10 minutes until the skin is browned (about 25 cm / 10 inches from the heat source). Alternatively, you can place it in the oven at 240°C / 450°F for 10 minutes.
  7. Serve: Spoon over pan juices and enjoy your Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken right away with a side of lemon sauce!

how to serve Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken

This delicious roast chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some lemon sauce on top for extra flavor!

how to store Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken

To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool to room temperature, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Lemon Garlic Slow Cooker Roast Chicken

  • Ensure the chicken is patted dry before applying the rub. This helps to achieve a crispier skin.
  • Feel free to adjust the herbs in the rub based on your preference.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can add more lemon zest or juice.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker. Carrots, potatoes, and onions can add great flavor and make the meal more filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use a chicken that’s frozen?
It’s best to use a thawed chicken for this recipe. Cooking from frozen can result in uneven cooking.

2. How can I tell if the chicken is cooked?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F.

3. Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead?
Yes! If using the oven, roast at 180°C / 350°F for about 1.5 hours or until thoroughly cooked.