Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of a classic French dish wafting through your kitchen, the kind that warms your heart and soul. Our Slow Cooker Poule au Pot is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the charming streets of France. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Best of all, it requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the delicious results without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to impress your loved ones with this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 4 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove giblets from the whole chicken and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the chicken generously inside and outside with salt and pepper.
- Place the quartered onion at the bottom of the slow cooker, creating a base for the chicken to rest on. This will help elevate the chicken and allow even cooking.
- Carefully place the whole seasoned chicken in the center of the slow cooker, positioning it breast-side up.
- Distribute the chopped carrots and celery around the chicken, ensuring they are evenly spread.
- Pour the chicken broth around the chicken, being careful not to wash away the seasoning. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the chicken.
- Add the bay leaves to the liquid, positioning them on opposite sides of the chicken for balanced flavor infusion.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and infused with the vegetable and herb flavors.
- After 6 hours, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the chicken with the cooked vegetables and broth, creating a rustic and comforting French-style dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for a whole organic chicken. The quality of the meat will significantly enhance the dish.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables the night before and store them in the fridge. This way, you can simply toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning.
- Layering Matters: Always place the onion at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps create a flavorful base and ensures even cooking for the chicken.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Season both the inside and outside of the chicken to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Monitor Cooking Time: While the recipe calls for 6 hours on low, every slow cooker is different. Check the chicken's internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
- Rest Before Carving: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender bird.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: For an extra touch of freshness, garnish your Poule au Pot with chopped parsley or thyme before serving.
- Make it a Meal: Don’t forget to serve the broth and vegetables alongside the chicken. They are packed with flavor and make for a complete, hearty meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
