Crock Pot Roasted Herbes De Provence Whole Chicken
The scent of Herbes de Provence always transports me back to my tiny Parisian apartment, a culinary school student dreaming of mastering the art of French cooking. I’d buy a small, local chicken from the market each week and, using a blend of dried herbs I’d carefully mix myself, I’d slow-roast it, filling my apartment with an aroma that whispered of sunny fields and rustic kitchens. This crock pot version is a nod to that simpler time, and a testament to how even the most sophisticated flavors can be achieved with ease.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-9 hours
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes – 9 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Yield: 1 whole chicken
- Dietary Type: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Ingredients
- 5 lbs whole chicken
- 2 medium onions, chopped roughly
- 2 parsnips, chopped roughly
- 3 tablespoons Herbes de Provence
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Crock Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Paper towels
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken. Remove it from its packaging and take out any giblets or innards from the cavity. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels. A dry chicken will brown better and the seasoning will adhere more effectively.
- In a small bowl, prepare the herb mixture. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, and Herbes de Provence.
- Rub the entire chicken with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick and also contribute to a richer flavor during the long cooking process.
- Generously season the entire chicken with the prepared herb mixture, ensuring that you rub the spices all over the bird, including under the skin of the breast, if possible.
- Roughly chop one of the onions and place it inside the cavity of the chicken. This will add moisture and flavor from the inside out.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the crock pot.
- Roughly chop the remaining onion and the parsnips. Scatter them around the chicken in the crock pot. These vegetables will not only add flavor to the chicken but also create a delicious and tender side dish.
- Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables in the crock pot. This will help keep the chicken moist during the long cooking time.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 7-9 hours. Crock pot cooking times can vary, so start checking for doneness around the 7-hour mark. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. If your crock pot tends to cook faster, reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- For extra crispy skin: While a crock pot won’t yield the same crispy skin as an oven-roasted chicken, you can achieve a slightly crispier finish by placing the cooked chicken under the broiler for a few minutes after it’s done in the crock pot. Be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.
- Brown the chicken first: For a richer, deeper flavor, you can brown the chicken in a skillet with olive oil before placing it in the crock pot. This adds an extra layer of caramelization that enhances the overall taste.
- Add some lemon: Inserting lemon wedges into the chicken cavity along with the chopped onion will enhance the flavor by adding a subtle citrus note.
- Make a gravy: After the chicken is cooked, strain the juices from the crock pot and use them to make a delicious gravy. Simmer the juices in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking in a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) until thickened.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Serve the Crock Pot Roasted Herbes De Provence Whole Chicken hot, carved, and with the tender vegetables from the crock pot. The flavorful pan juices make an excellent sauce or gravy. Consider serving alongside mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Storage: Leftover chicken should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftover chicken for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftover chicken in the microwave, oven, or skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist during reheating.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 905 kcal | N/A |
| Calories from Fat | 614 kcal | N/A |
| Total Fat | 68.3 g | 105% |
| Saturated Fat | 18 g | 90% |
| Cholesterol | 267.4 mg | 89% |
| Sodium | 298.1 mg | 12% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 5.2 g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.9 g | 3% |
| Sugars | 2.4 g | N/A |
| Protein | 63.7 g | 127% |
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the crock pot, such as carrots, potatoes, celery, or sweet potatoes. Root vegetables work especially well.
- Herb Variations: If you don’t have Herbes de Provence, you can use a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, and marjoram.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the herb mixture for a little heat.
- Wine Addition: Add ½ cup of dry white wine to the crock pot along with the chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Citrus Infusion: Insert slices of orange and lemon into the chicken cavity along with the onion.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use a frozen chicken in the crock pot?
A: No, it is not recommended to cook a frozen chicken in a crock pot due to food safety concerns. The chicken may not cook evenly, and the center may remain at an unsafe temperature for too long.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature. Also, the juices should run clear when the thigh is pierced with a fork.
Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: Yes, you can cook it on high, but you’ll need to reduce the cooking time to about 3-4 hours. Keep in mind that cooking on low results in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Q: My chicken is falling apart. Is that okay?
A: Yes, a chicken cooked in a crock pot for a long time will be very tender and may fall apart easily. This is normal and indicates that the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Can I add other seasonings to the chicken?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or your favorite spice blend.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Roasted Herbes De Provence Whole Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The slow cooking process results in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken that will impress your family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delicious flavors of French country cooking in your own home. Feel free to adjust the herbs and vegetables to your liking, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Serve with a crisp white wine and enjoy!