2 small onions or 1 large, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 large carrots or 6 baby carrots, sliced
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/4 teaspoon thyme
1/4 teaspoon sage
2 tablespoons dry parsley flakes
10 oz pkg. frozen peas
3 pounds whole broiler/fryer chicken
2 1/2 cups water or low sodium chicken broth
1/3 cup raw converted rice

Place all ingredients in slow cooker in the order listed (except for the rice). Cover and cook on low setting for 8 to 10 hours (or high 4 to 6 hours). If liquid begins to boil, reduce heat to lower setting.

One hour before serving, remove chicken and allow to cool for 20 minutes or until cool enough to handle. Remove chicken from bones and return meat to slow cooker. Add rice. Cover and cook the additional hour.

Season to taste and serve. 4 servings.