Crockpot Whole Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a Crockpot Whole Chicken simmering away in the kitchen on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; it felt like a warm hug from the inside out. The scent of the seasonings wafting through the house created an inviting atmosphere, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it was even served. This dish has become a staple in my home, especially when I want something comforting yet hassle-free after a long day. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The beauty of a slow cooker is that it does the hard work for you while you go about your day. You get to come home to a perfectly cooked, tender chicken that practically falls off the bone. Serve it alongside some roasted veggies or a simple salad, and you have a meal that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen.

What Goes Into Crockpot Whole Chicken

Cooking a Crockpot Whole Chicken is about bringing together a few key ingredients that create a delightful meal. The magic lies in the whole chicken that stews over low heat, absorbing the flavors of the accompanying vegetables and seasonings. This combination not only ensures a succulent dish but also fills your kitchen with comforting aromas.

• 1 (4-pound) whole chicken: This is the star of the show. A whole chicken ensures juiciness and flavor, especially when slow-cooked.
• 1 sweet onion: Chopped to add sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 bell pepper: Any color will do. It brings bright flavor and color, making the dish visually appealing.
• 1 rib celery: Adds crunch and a subtle flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: For that aromatic touch, enhancing the savory notes.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: To deepen the onion flavor.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: A must for seasoning the chicken to perfection.
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning: This blend of spices is essential for capturing that classic roast chicken flavor.

Directions for Crockpot Whole Chicken

Making a Crockpot Whole Chicken is simple and rewarding. Let’s walk through the steps together to ensure you get the most out of this recipe. Each step is crafted to make the process as smooth as possible. Follow along closely, and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

1. Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking, making it easier to remove once cooked.
2. Next, take some kitchen foil and create a ring on the bottom of the slow cooker. This ring will act as a rack for the chicken and allow airflow under it, ensuring even cooking.
3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the bottom of the pot. These vegetables not only add flavor but also help to keep the chicken moist during the cooking process.
4. Create two strips of foil by folding them over and over, letting them hang over the sides. These will serve as handles to easily lift the chicken out once it’s cooked.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and poultry seasoning. This combination adds a savory depth of flavor to the chicken.
6. Take your whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up. Then, rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
7. Place the seasoned chicken inside the slow cooker, on top of the foil strips and ring. The foil strips will help lift the chicken out once it’s fully cooked.
8. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the chicken on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours, or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the bird and your slow cooker model.
9. When the chicken is ready, the internal temperature should reach 170 to 175 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
10. Carefully remove the chicken and transfer it to an oven-safe dish. Broil it for about 5 minutes in the oven until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
11. Serve the chicken hot with your choice of sides. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to spice things up or make this recipe your own, there are plenty of ways to modify the Crockpot Whole Chicken. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Seasoning Swaps: Experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding rosemary, thyme, or a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing twist.
• Vegetable Choices: Swap out traditional vegetables for seasonal ones like squash or root vegetables. Each brings a unique flavor profile.
• Cooking Liquid: Consider adding a splash of broth or herbal tea to the slow cooker for added moisture and flavor.
• Stuffed Chicken: For added flavor, stuff the cavity of the chicken with fresh herbs, lemon halves, or garlic cloves.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy version.
• Leftover Meals: Use leftover chicken to make sandwiches, salads, or casseroles for a quick meal any day of the week.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken or broth for future meals, making meal prep a breeze.

Serving Options for Crockpot Whole Chicken

Serving a Crockpot Whole Chicken can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. Here are some fantastic ideas to consider for a delightful dining experience:

• Classic Side Dishes: Pair your chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal.
• Serving Style: Serve the chicken whole at the center of the table for a family-style dinner, allowing everyone to carve their portions.
• Special Occasions: This dish is perfect for gatherings or celebrations. It’s impressive yet requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests.
• Leftover Ideas: Don’t forget about the leftovers! Shred any remaining chicken for use in soups, tacos, or sandwiches.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for easy meals later.
• Seasonal Pairings: In winter, serve with hearty root vegetables. In summer, consider lighter sides like a fresh cucumber salad.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Crockpot Whole Chicken is a centerpiece dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Its ease of preparation combined with the rich flavors makes it a favorite for busy nights or gatherings. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings to your meals. Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated; with this dish, you’ll impress your family and friends effortlessly.

Crockpot Whole Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, this Crockpot Whole Chicken is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering, it’s a dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you'll want to make this tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Crockpot
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole chicken thawed if frozen; giblets removed
• 1 whole sweet onion roughly chopped
• 1 whole bell pepper any color, roughly chopped
• 1 rib celery roughly chopped
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

Instructions

 

• Start by spraying the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking, making it easier to remove once cooked.
• Next, take some kitchen foil and create a ring on the bottom of the slow cooker. This ring will act as a rack for the chicken and allow airflow under it, ensuring even cooking.
• Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the bottom of the pot. These vegetables not only add flavor but also help to keep the chicken moist during the cooking process.
• Create two strips of foil by folding them over and over, letting them hang over the sides. These will serve as handles to easily lift the chicken out once it’s fully cooked.
• In a small bowl, mix together the seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and poultry seasoning. This combination adds a savory depth of flavor to the chicken.
• Take your whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up. Then, rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
• Place the seasoned chicken inside the slow cooker, on top of the foil strips and ring. The foil strips will help lift the chicken out once it’s fully cooked.
• Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the chicken on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours, or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the bird and your slow cooker model.
• When the chicken is ready, the internal temperature should reach 170 to 175 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Carefully remove the chicken and transfer it to an oven-safe dish. Broil it for about 5 minutes in the oven until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
• Serve the chicken hot with your choice of sides. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

• Tip 1: I like to use 3.5 to 4.5-pound whole chickens in my slow cooker. These sizes seem to fit just perfectly with the veggies.
• Tip 2: A crockpot rack works well in place of the foil ring and sling.
• Tip 3: Feel free to change up the seasonings to suit your tastes. Check out my chicken seasoning for a family favorite with a kick!
• Tip 4: The vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker are there to add flavor and steam the chicken so it stays moist.
• Tip 5: Instead of tossing the onion, bell pepper, and celery from the bottom of the pot, blend them into a quick gravy or sauce. It’s a flavor-packed base you don’t get from just broth and cornstarch, and it saves food waste.
• Tip 6: Just like roasting, letting your slow-cooked chicken rest (10–15 minutes loosely covered with foil) before carving allows the juices to redistribute. It prevents the meat from drying out the second you slice in.
• Tip 7: Leftover slow cooker whole chicken is so yummy in a number of recipes. I think it tastes great in crockpot chicken noodle soup or my favorite crack chicken tacos.

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.