Here’s a simple and flavorful slow cooker whole chicken recipe — perfect for a no-fuss, tender, and juicy dinner.
🐔 Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe
🕒 Prep Time:
15 minutes
🕒 Cook Time:
6–8 hours (low) or 3.5–4.5 hours (high)
🍽 Serves:
4–6
✅ Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3.5–5 lbs), giblets removed
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2–3 carrots, cut into chunks (optional)
- 2–3 celery stalks, cut into chunks (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
📝 Instructions:
- Prepare the spice rub
In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. - Season the chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the skin. Then rub the seasoning mix over the entire chicken, including under the skin if you can. - Stuff the cavity
Place lemon halves, smashed garlic, and a few onion quarters into the chicken cavity. - Layer the vegetables (optional)
Place carrots, celery, and remaining onion quarters at the bottom of the slow cooker. This creates a flavor base and elevates the chicken so it doesn’t sit directly in its juices. - Cook the chicken
- Place the chicken on top of the veggies, breast-side up.
- Cover and cook on:
- Low for 6–8 hours, or
- High for 3.5–4.5 hours
- Chicken is done when internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Optional: Crisp the skin
For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 4–5 minutes. - Rest & serve
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the cooked veggies and pan juices.
🔁 Optional Add-Ons:
- Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the cavity for extra aroma.
- Pour a splash of white wine or chicken broth into the slow cooker for more flavorful juices.