Ingredients

The following ingredients have 8 Servings
  • 1 6 lb whole chicken
  • 5 cups apple cider (divided)
  • 1/4 cup salt
  • 2 Tbsp Applewood rub plus add'l for sprinkling ([i.e. Grill Mates])
  • 4 Tbsp softened butter
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Instruction

  • The night before: Mix together 4 cups of apple cider or apple juice with 1/4 cup of salt. Stir until the salt dissolves.
  • Wash the chicken, removing the giblets, then pour the brine over the chicken and refrigerate. Turn occasionally.
  • To prepare: Spray the inside of a 6 quart slow cooker with cooking spray and set on low. Remove the chicken from the brine, and pat dry.
  • Mix together 2 tablespoons of applewood rub, two cloves of minced garlic and 4 tablespoons of butter. Rub all over the chicken. Loosen the skin around the breast and leg portions and tuck some of the mixture under the skin, too.
  • Sprinkle the top with additional seasoning and center in your slow cooker.
  • Pour 1 cup of apple cider or apple juice around the chicken and place the lid firmly on top.
  • Cook on low for 6 hours then check for doneness. Depending on how your slow cooker cooks, and the size of the chicken, it may take a little longer likewise if smaller less cooking time.
  • To crisp the skin, carefully move to a baking pan. Broil, in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
  • Allow to rest for 10 minutes before carving Drizzle with the pan juices just before serving.