Why I Love This Recipe
Cooking a whole chicken in the slow cooker is hands-down one of the easiest and most rewarding meals you can make. With minimal prep, you get a juicy, tender chicken and flavorful veggies all in one pot! The slow cooking method allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. It’s also customizable—swap out vegetables, adjust seasonings, or add a lemon for a fresh, zesty touch. The best part? You can throw it all in, set it, and forget it until it’s time to eat!
Slow Cooker Whole Chicken with Vegetables
A simple and flavorful recipe to make a whole chicken in your slow cooker, served with tender veggies that cook alongside it. The result is a perfectly seasoned chicken with minimal hands-on time, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 979 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 (5 lb.) small whole chicken (Look for a chicken around 4-5 lbs. for the best results)
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)
- 4 carrots (peeled and halved)
- 1 red onion (peeled and quartered)
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme (rosemary or oregano can be substituted)
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Begin by adding the carrots and onion to the bottom of your slow cooker. These veggies will serve as a flavorful base for your chicken and help keep it from sticking to the bottom during cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from its packaging. Be sure to remove any extra parts or packaging from the inside of the chicken (like giblets or neck).
- Drain any excess liquid from the chicken, ensuring it’s dry before placing it in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Place the whole chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Pour melted butter over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated for a juicy, flavorful result.
- Cut the lemon in half (optional) and squeeze the juice over the chicken. If you’re using the lemon, it adds a refreshing citrus flavor to balance out the richness of the chicken.
- Sprinkle the seasonings (thyme, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper) evenly over the chicken. You can also rub the seasonings into the skin for added flavor.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Chicken
- Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 7-8 hours. Cooking time can vary based on the size of the chicken, so check the doneness after the 7-hour mark.
- You’ll know the chicken is done when the drumsticks start pulling away from the breasts and the juices run clear. If you’re unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to check. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe for consumption.
Step 5: Serve
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker (it will be very tender and may fall apart). Serve it with the vegetables and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Choose a smaller chicken: A 4-5 lb. chicken works best in the slow cooker, as larger chickens can take longer to cook and may not fit properly.
- Flavor variations: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try swapping out the thyme for rosemary, oregano, or even a bit of garlic powder for a savory kick.
- Cooking time may vary: Depending on the size of the chicken and your slow cooker model, cooking times may slightly vary. Check the chicken after 7 hours to see if it’s fully cooked.
- Crispier Skin: If you prefer crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes in your oven after it’s done in the slow cooker. This gives the skin a nice golden finish while keeping the meat tender.
Recipe Notes
- Lemon optional: The lemon is optional but adds a lovely citrus note to the chicken. If you don’t have one, it’s still delicious without it.
- Substitute with other veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, or celery for the carrots and onions.
- Use a thermometer: If you’re concerned about the chicken being fully cooked, using a meat thermometer is always the best option. It ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken in this recipe. Cooking frozen chicken can affect the texture and cooking time, potentially leading to undercooked meat.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double this recipe, but make sure to use a larger slow cooker. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly for larger chickens, and it’s essential to check the internal temperature to ensure proper doneness.
Q: How can I make the vegetables more flavorful?
If you want more flavor in your vegetables, toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them in the slow cooker. You can also add garlic or herbs to elevate the taste.
Q: What should I do with the leftover chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use leftover chicken for sandwiches, salads, soups, or even shredded chicken tacos!
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken will remain moist and flavorful.
- Freezing: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe container.
This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is the epitome of simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal meal for busy days when you want a comforting dinner with minimal effort. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken with flavorful vegetables—all cooked in one pot for an easy cleanup
