Tender Lemon Garlic Chicken with Rich Slow-Cooked Flavors
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (about 2 kg / 4 lbs), patted dry
2.5 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter), plus extra for drizzling
1 large lemon, zested and juiced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried parsley
½ tsp dried oregano
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Lemon Sauce:
Pan juices from the slow cooker
1 tbsp cornflour/cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
Juice of 1 extra lemon (optional, for taste)
Directions:
Prepare the Rub: Mix olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper into a paste.
Loosen the Skin: Gently loosen the skin of the chicken using a spoon, then spread the rub under and over the skin evenly.
Stuff and Place: Stuff the used lemon inside the chicken cavity. Place the chicken on a rack or foil balls inside the slow cooker to elevate it.
Slow Cook: Cook on low for 5 hours or on high for 3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Crisp the Skin: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and drizzle with olive oil. Broil or grill for 5-10 minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Prepare Lemon Sauce: Pour the slow cooker juices into a saucepan, add the cornflour mixture, and simmer until thickened. Adjust seasoning and add extra lemon juice if desired.
Serve: Drizzle the lemon sauce over the chicken or serve on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 hours | Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 478 per serving | Servings: 5-6
