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slow cooker whole chicken recipe

Juicy Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Ryan BennettRyan Bennett
This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is perfect for busy families who want a delicious, hassle-free meal. Enjoy tender and juicy chicken infused with herbs and spices.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 slow cooker large enough for a whole chicken
  • 1 meat thermometer
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken 4-5 lbs
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 lemon halved
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Vegetables

  • 1 onion quartered
  • 3 carrots chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Remove giblets from the chicken. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season inside and out with salt and pepper.
  • Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and garlic cloves. Rub olive oil over the chicken skin.
  • Place the chicken breast-side up in the slow cooker. Add optional vegetables around the chicken for added flavor.

Serving

  • Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes. Carve and serve with vegetables from the slow cooker.

Storage

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Use the chicken in sandwiches or salads.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Let the chicken rest before carving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Try using lime instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
How to Serve: Carve at the table for family-style serving.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prep the chicken and vegetables the night before for easy morning assembly.
Keyword crockpot whole chicken, easy slow cooker chicken, slow cooker whole chicken