A “chicken in every pot“, was a quote that was used during the presidential race of 1928, and is even used to this day.  The quote is often attributed to Herbert Hoover, but I found out that he wasn’t the one who actually said it.

The phrase was actually used by the Republican National Committee during Hoover’s presidential campaign, and they borrowed it from King Henry IV.

~ “If God keeps me, I will make sure that there is no sharecropper in my kingdom who does not have the means to have a chicken in the pot every Sunday!” ~ King Henry IV

So, I decided to give it a try.  I got out my trusty crock pot, and I put it to use!  I put a chicken in it!  And I found what I think just might be my new favorite way to cook chicken!

The recipe is actually called “Chicken In a Pot”!  It’s super easy and it makes delicious chicken and broth.

“Chicken In a Pot”

• 2 carrots sliced
• 2 onions sliced
• 2 celery stalks with leaves, cut in 1-inch pieces
• 3 pound broiler/fryer chicken
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 1/2 cup water, chicken broth or white wine
• 1/2 teaspoon basil

Put carrots, onion, and celery in bottom of Crock Pot. Add whole chicken. Top with salt, pepper, liquid. Sprinkle basil over top. Cover, cook on Low 8 to 10 hours (High: 3 1/2 to 5 hours, using 1 cup water). Remove chicken and vegetables with spatula.

When it was done, I strained the liquid, and took all of the chicken off of the bones.  I used some of the chicken to make delicious chicken enchiladas the first night, and then I put the rest of the chicken in freezer bags to use at a later time.  I also have a quart of chicken broth/stock to use the next time I make chicken noodle soup!

And…I feel quite accomplished!

Well done King Henry IV.  You had a great idea!

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