Best Whole Chicken in Crockpot
This crockpot whole chicken recipe results in tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort. The chicken is seasoned with herbs, garlic, and lemon, then slow-cooked to perfection in the crockpot, making it a simple yet flavorful meal.
Equipment
- Crockpot / Slow cooker
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl for seasoning
- Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken 3-5 lbs
- 1 onion quartered
- 1 lemon halved
- 4 garlic cloves smashed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth optional
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Remove giblets from the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken with olive oil, making sure to cover all sides.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
- Stuff the chicken: Stuff the chicken cavity with the quartered onion, halved lemon, and smashed garlic cloves.
- Place in the crockpot: Place the chicken breast-side up in the crockpot. Optionally, pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crockpot.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Notes
- For added flavor, place vegetables like carrots or potatoes around the chicken in the crockpot.
- Save the cooking juices to make gravy or pour over the chicken for extra flavor.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
