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Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

A tender and juicy whole chicken cooked in the slow cooker with simple seasonings, perfect for an easy family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 45 lbs), giblets removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 23 carrots, cut into chunks
  • 23 celery stalks, cut into chunks

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  2. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or butter.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
  4. Season the chicken generously inside and out with the spice mix.
  5. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, smashed garlic cloves, and onion quarters.
  6. Place carrots and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker to form a bed.
  7. Set the chicken breast-side up on top of the vegetables.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Optional: For crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes.
  10. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Notes

  • You can use the leftover bones and juices to make homemade chicken stock.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste with your favorite herbs and spices.
  • If the chicken is very large, check for doneness in multiple spots to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker whole chicken, crockpot chicken, easy chicken recipe, family dinner