Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken

Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken Recipe is perfectly seasoned, fall-off-the-bone tender, and incredibly easy to make, this recipe is your go-to solution for a flavorful weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do all the work.
• Healthier Option: You control the seasoning and avoid additives often found in store-bought rotisserie chickens.
• Versatile: Perfect for salads, soups, sandwiches, or as a standalone main dish.

Ingredients for Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to create your homemade rotisserie chicken masterpiece:

• Whole Chicken (4-5 lbs): Be sure to remove the giblets and pat it dry.
• Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper.
• Salt: For flavor enhancement and tenderizing.
• Lemon: For stuffing the cavity, adding brightness.
• Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning adhere and creates a crispy skin.
• Optional Aromatics: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or onion slices for additional flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Remove the giblets and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This ensures the seasonings stick well.
• Rub the chicken generously with olive oil.

2. Season the Chicken

• Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
• Rub the spice mix all over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.

3. Set Up the Crockpot

• Place three to four balls of aluminum foil, a wire rack, or thickly sliced onion rounds at the bottom of the crockpot. This keeps the chicken elevated for better air circulation and prevents soggy skin.

4. Cook Low and Slow

• Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up on the rack. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part of the breast.

5. Optional: Broil for Crispy Skin

• For that iconic rotisserie-style crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for 4-5 minutes.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Choose the Right Chicken: A small to medium-sized bird works best for even cooking.
• Dry the Skin: Ensures a crispier finish.
• Don’t Skip Elevation: Using foil balls or a rack helps mimic a true rotisserie cooking method.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme both inside the cavity and in the seasoning blend.
• Garlic Lover’s Delight: Add whole garlic cloves inside the cavity for a fragrant burst of flavor.

How to Serve Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken

• Main Dish: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice pilaf.
• In Salads: Shred the meat and toss it into Caesar or cobb salads.
• Tacos or Wraps: Use the juicy chicken as a filling with your favorite toppings.
• Soups and Broths: Use leftovers to make a hearty chicken noodle soup or a light broth.

How to Store and Reheat

1. Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
2. Freeze: Shred the chicken and store it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F, or microwave portions on medium heat to maintain juiciness.

Recipe FAQs

1. Can I cook a frozen chicken in the crockpot?

No, it’s not recommended to cook a frozen chicken in the slow cooker due to food safety concerns. Always thaw the chicken completely before cooking.

2. How do I ensure my chicken isn’t dry?

Cooking on LOW heat and avoiding overcooking are key. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

3. Can I use this recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely! Shred the chicken after cooking and portion it into containers for easy meals throughout the week.

4. Can I skip the broiling step?

Yes, but broiling adds a delightful crispiness to the skin, elevating the flavor.

This Crockpot Rotisserie Chicken Recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or simply impressing guests with minimal effort. Its tender, juicy meat paired with customizable seasoning ensures it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again.

Try these other chicken recipes:

• Crockpot Greek Chicken
• Crockpot Chicken Marsala
• Crockpot Chicken Vegetable Soup