Slow Cooker Herb Butter Roast Chicken Recipe
This Slow Cooker Herb Butter Roast Chicken is the ultimate hands-off recipe for a tender, flavorful meal. Infused with garlic, fresh thyme, and sage, the chicken cooks to perfection, releasing its natural juices for incredible flavor. A zesty touch of lemon adds brightness, while the herb butter ensures a rich, buttery finish. For those who love crispy skin, a quick grill after slow cooking achieves a golden, crunchy texture. Serve with homemade gravy made from the savory juices for a comforting and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1.5 kg free-range whole chicken
1 onion, peeled and cut into large chunks
2 whole lemons
For the Herb Butter:
3 tbsp salted butter (softened; see notes)
1 tbsp fresh thyme (leaves only, stalks removed)
1 tbsp fresh sage (finely chopped)
1 tbsp garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Herb Butter:
Mix the softened butter, thyme, sage, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
2. Set Up the Slow Cooker:
Place onion chunks at the bottom of the slow cooker. Remove any string from the chicken for even cooking, then set the chicken on top of the onions.
3. Season the Chicken:
Generously spread the herb butter over the top and sides of the chicken. Slice one lemon in half and nestle it around the chicken.
4. Add Liquid and Cook:
Pour 100ml of boiling water into the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for about 5 hours. The chicken is done when the leg bones feel loose when wiggled.
5. Optional: Brown the Chicken
For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking tray and grill under high heat for 10-15 minutes until golden and crisp.
6. Serve:
Garnish with additional lemon slices and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Notes & Tips
Butter: If using unsalted butter, increase the salt slightly. Ensure butter is soft but not melted for easy spreading.
Herbs: Fresh herbs deliver the best aroma and flavor, but dried herbs work as a substitute.
Crispy Skin: Slow cookers don’t yield crispy skin, but grilling post-cooking achieves that golden, crunchy texture.
Liquid: The chicken releases its natural juices, so only 100ml of water is needed to keep it moist.
Make a Rich Gravy
1. Blend the cooked onion chunks with the slow cooker juices for a flavorful gravy.
2. In a mug, mix 2 tbsp of cornflour with a few tablespoons of chicken juices to form a smooth paste.
3. Transfer the chicken juices to a saucepan and heat over medium. Gradually whisk in the cornflour mixture to thicken.
SlowCooker, RoastChicken, HerbButter, GarlicChicken, LemonChicken, EasyRecipe, FamilyDinner, ComfortFood, JuicyChicken, GravyRecipe
Enjoy this tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious! Perfect for impressing your loved ones or simplifying your weekly meals.
