crock pot whole chicken recipe
The Best crock pot whole chicken recipe
I love this crock pot whole chicken recipe because it’s one of those meals that just makes life easier without sacrificing flavor. There’s something so satisfying about tossing a few simple ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning and coming home to a perfectly cooked, juicy chicken by dinnertime. My kids go crazy for it—especially when I serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. It’s the kind of dish that works just as well for a busy weeknight as it does for a casual weekend dinner with friends.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is how hands-off it is. No babysitting the oven, no flipping or stirring—just set it and forget it. Plus, the leftovers are amazing for meal prep. You can shred the chicken for tacos, toss it into soups, or even use it in sandwiches the next day. And since it’s cooked with just a few wholesome ingredients, it’s a great way to get a lean protein fix without a lot of added fat or calories. The slow cooking process keeps the meat tender and locks in the natural flavors, making it a healthier option than fried or heavily processed chicken. My family asks for this one all the time, and I’m always happy to oblige because it’s just that easy and delicious.
Crock Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs
A tender and flavorful whole chicken cooked slowly in a crock pot with aromatic herbs and vegetables. This easy recipe yields juicy meat and a rich broth perfect for soups or gravy.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 3 carrots, chopped into large chunks
- 3 celery stalks, chopped into large chunks
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
👨🍳Directions
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1 Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a large mixing bowl.
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2 In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the entire surface of the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
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3 Place the quartered onion, chopped carrots, celery, and smashed garlic cloves into the bottom of the crock pot.
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4 Pour the chicken broth into the crock pot, then drizzle the vegetables with olive oil.
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5 Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the crock pot, breast-side up.
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6 Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
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7 Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Strain the vegetables and broth if desired, or serve them alongside the chicken.
🔧Equipment
- Crock pot (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs Works
Cooking a whole chicken in the crock pot is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to serve a crowd without the stress. It turns out tender, flavorful, and juicy every time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings alike. Plus, the leftovers are just as versatile, so you’ll always have a solid meal ready for the next day.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs
1. How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in a crock pot?
A whole chicken typically takes 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high in a crock pot, depending on the size of the chicken. A general rule is 20–30 minutes per pound on low. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
2. Do I need to add liquid to the crock pot when cooking a whole chicken?
Yes, adding ½ to 1 cup of liquid (such as broth, water, or apple juice) helps keep the chicken moist and prevents burning. However, the chicken will release its own juices as it cooks, so you don’t need to submerge it. For extra flavor, you can also place vegetables (like onions, carrots, or celery) underneath the chicken.
3. Can I cook a frozen whole chicken in the crock pot?
It’s not recommended to cook a fully frozen whole chicken in a crock pot because the slow cooking process may not heat the chicken evenly, increasing the risk of bacteria growth. For safety, thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator before cooking. If you must use frozen chicken, cut it into smaller pieces to ensure thorough cooking.
4. How do I keep the chicken skin crispy in a crock pot?
Crock pots are great for tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken, but they don’t crisp the skin. To achieve crispy skin: – Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. – Cook it on high for the last 30–60 minutes with the lid slightly ajar to let moisture escape. – For best results, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes after slow cooking.
5. What seasonings work best for a crock pot whole chicken?
A simple and flavorful seasoning blend works well. Try: – Salt & black pepper (essential for base flavor) – Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (classic combo) – Dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano – Lemon pepper or Cajun seasoning for a zesty kick – Butter or olive oil under the skin for extra moisture
For a hands-off approach, you can also use a pre-made rotisserie or poultry seasoning blend.
