This Easy Crockpot Whole Chicken is a game-changer for dinner! Just toss in a whole chicken with some spices, and let the slow cooker do all the magic while you kick back.
The best part? You’ll get tender, juicy chicken with hardly any effort. I love serving it with veggies or making sandwiches. Talk about a simple and hearty meal! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Chicken: A 4 to 5-pound chicken is perfect for the crockpot. If you can’t find one, a smaller chicken will work, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder are pantry staples. If you want to make it fresh, use minced garlic and chopped onion instead. Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika works too!
Vegetables: Use any root vegetables you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even celery can add great flavors. Just make sure they are chopped uniformly for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This is great for crispy skin! If you’re looking for a different flavor, try melted butter or avocado oil as an alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken is all about seasoning and cooking correctly. Make sure you season both inside and out — this is key. Also, allowing the chicken to rest after it’s done cooking will help redistributes the juices.
- Rub the olive oil generously to help the skin crisp up.
- Remember to check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
- Broil for a few minutes after cooking for that golden brown skin!
Easy Crockpot Whole Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 to 5 pounds)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, chopped into chunks
- 1 medium onion, quartered
Time Needed:
This delicious meal requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then a cooking time of 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in your crockpot. Don’t forget to allow about 10 minutes for resting after it’s done cooking. Super simple!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful rub for your chicken.
2. Season the Chicken:
Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up later. Then, rub olive oil all over the chicken, coating it nicely.
3. Add the Spice Mix:
Generously season the chicken inside and out with the spice mixture you made earlier. Make sure everywhere is well coated so every bite is flavorful!
4. Stuff the Cavity:
Take lemon slices, smashed garlic cloves, and if you have them, the fresh herb sprigs, and stuff them inside the cavity of the chicken. This will infuse more flavor into the meat while it cooks.
5. Prepare the Vegetable Bed:
In the bottom of the crockpot, place the chopped carrots, potatoes, and quartered onion. This will add yummy flavors and catch the drippings from the chicken.
6. Place the Chicken:
Set the seasoned chicken right on top of the vegetables. It works like a steamer, letting the chicken juices flavor the veggies!
7. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Optional Crispy Skin:
If you want crispy skin, carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until it’s golden and crispy! Watch it closely so it doesn’t burn!
9. Carve and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This resting time keeps the juices inside, making it super juicy when you slice it. Serve it up with the cooked vegetables on the side, and enjoy a delightful meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your effortless, flavorful meal straight from the crockpot!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Whole Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Unfortunately, it’s best to use a thawed chicken for this recipe. If you have frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method (sealed in a bag) for a quicker thaw. This ensures even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also shred the chicken and add it to soups or salads for a quick meal!
Can I Substitute the Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute based on what you have. Other great options include sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or even bell peppers. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
Is It Possible to Cook This Chicken on High?
Yes, you can cook the chicken on high for 3 to 4 hours. Just be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Cooking on low will yield more tender meat, but high works just fine in a pinch!
