slow cook whole chicken recipe crockpot
The Best slow cook whole chicken recipe crockpot
I love this slow cooker whole chicken recipe because it’s one of those meals that just makes life easier without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. There’s something so satisfying about tossing a few simple ingredients into the crockpot in the morning and coming home to a perfectly cooked, juicy chicken that practically falls off the bone. My kids always ask for seconds, and I don’t blame them—it’s tender, flavorful, and way less messy than roasting a chicken in the oven.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when I don’t have time to stand over the stove, but it’s also great for Sunday dinners or when we’re having friends over. The best part? It’s packed with protein and leaves you with plenty of leftovers for sandwiches, salads, or even homemade chicken broth. Plus, the slow cooking process keeps all the moisture in, so you’re not left with dry meat like you sometimes get with other methods. It’s a no-fuss, no-stress meal that my whole family loves, and I always feel good about serving it.
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
A tender and flavorful whole chicken cooked low and slow in the crockpot. This easy recipe yields juicy meat with minimal effort, perfect for a comforting family meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
👨🍳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 Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it evenly over the skin.
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3 In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
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4 Place the quartered onion, chopped carrots, celery, smashed garlic, and lemon halves into the bottom of the slow cooker.
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5 Set the chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker, breast-side up.
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6 Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 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 slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
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8 Optional: For gravy, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan, skim off excess fat, and bring to a simmer. Mix cornstarch with water, then whisk into the liquid until thickened.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Works
This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is one of those no-fail meals I always turn to because it’s simple, hands-off, and delivers juicy, flavorful results every time. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone satisfied without the stress. Plus, the leftovers make the best sandwiches or soups, so it’s always worth making.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
1. Can I cook a whole chicken in a slow cooker without adding any liquid?
Yes, you can cook a whole chicken in a slow cooker without adding extra liquid. The chicken will release its own juices as it cooks, which helps keep it moist. However, if you prefer, you can add about ½ cup of broth, water, or other liquid to the bottom of the slow cooker for extra flavor and moisture.
2. How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in a crockpot?
The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken and your slow cooker settings. Generally, a 4–6 lb chicken will take: – 4–5 hours on High – 6–8 hours on Low Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
3. Should I place the chicken breast-side up or down in the slow cooker?
For the most even cooking, place the chicken breast-side up in the slow cooker. This helps the breast meat stay moist, as it’s less likely to dry out when exposed to the heat from above. If your slow cooker runs hot, you can flip it halfway through cooking, but it’s not necessary.
4. Can I use frozen chicken in a slow cooker?
It’s not recommended to cook a whole frozen chicken in a slow cooker. The slow cooker may not heat the chicken quickly enough to reach a safe temperature, increasing the risk of bacterial growth. Always thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
5. What seasonings work best for a slow cooker whole chicken?
Simple seasonings work great! Try rubbing the chicken with: – Salt & black pepper – Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika – A mix of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano – Lemon juice and olive oil for brightness You can also stuff the cavity with onion, garlic, lemon, or fresh herbs for extra flavor. Avoid over-seasoning, as the flavors will concentrate during cooking.
