Cooking a whole chicken in a slow cooker is simple, hands-off, and yields tender, juicy meat that practically falls off the bone. 🍗
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (3–5 lbs)
- 1–2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 3–4 garlic cloves, smashed
- Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth (optional, keeps it extra moist)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the outside and inside with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. - Stuff the cavity
Place lemon halves, garlic cloves, and herbs inside the cavity. - Place in slow cooker
Put the chicken breast-side up in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth if desired for extra moisture. - Cook
- LOW for 6–7 hours
- HIGH for 3–4 hours
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Optional crisping
For a crispy skin, place the cooked chicken under a broiler for 3–5 minutes, or in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. - Serve
Let it rest 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
✅ Tip: Save the drippings to make a flavorful gravy or soup stock.
If you want, I can also give a garlic butter slow cooker whole chicken recipe that’s extra flavorful and golden.
