Slow Cooker Alabama BBQ Chicken

Place the onion slices at the bottom of a slow cooker, creating a layer of flavor foundation. In a small bowl, combine 3/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, paprika, and poultry seasoning to create a savory blend. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Next, insert 3-4 garlic cloves into the chicken's cavity, ensuring they're snugly in place. Then, brush the entire surface of the chicken with melted butter to add richness and moisture. Sprinkle the prepared savory blend evenly over the chicken, making sure it's fully coated.

Carefully position the chicken breast-side up in the slow cooker. Pour 1-2 cups of water into the cooker, creating a moist environment for cooking. Sprinkle a small amount of liquid smoke over the chicken to enhance its flavor profile.

Cook the chicken on High for 1 hour, followed by a reduction in heat to Low and an additional 8 hours of cooking time. Remove the chicken from its bones, shred it using two forks, and cut the onion slices in half. Return both the shredded chicken and onions to the slow cooker.

While the chicken is cooking, combine 2-3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1-2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon white sugar, the remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, creamy sauce.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

Once the chicken is cooked, pour 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared sauce over it and continue cooking on Low for an additional 1 hour.