The Kitchn: Yes, you can make a whole chicken in the slow cooker!
After the chicken has finished cooking in the slow cooker, transfer it to a baking sheet or dish and pop it under the broiler for about three minutes. It's just enough time to transform the skin, without heating up your kitchen. Since the chicken is so tender, it can feel tough to move it out of the slow cooker, but it's easier than it seems. I've found that the best way is carefully lifting it using two metal spatulas (fish spatulas are especially handy).
The liquid gold by-product
At the end of cooking, you'll notice a good deal of liquid from the chicken in the bottom of the slow cooker. This stuff is like liquid gold, bearing a more intense and richer flavor than chicken broth. Either way, you'll want to save and use it just as you would chicken stock or broth. Keep it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a few days; otherwise stash it away in the freezer until you're ready to use it.
Whole Chicken
Serves 4 to 6, depending on the size of the chicken
Ingredients:
1 (3- to 4-pound) whole chicken
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Equipment:
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