Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Slow cooker whole chicken is an effortless way to enjoy tender, juicy poultry with minimal fuss. This recipe yields a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chicken seasoning

Instructions

1. Step 1: Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the skin dry with paper towels.
2. Step 2: Lightly coat the inside of the slow cooker with oil.
3. Step 3: Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper, including inside the cavity.
4. Step 4: Place the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Step 5: Mix the olive oil and chicken seasoning in a small bowl, then rub it all over the chicken to coat evenly.
6. Step 6: Turn the chicken breast side up, cover, and slow cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours.
7. Step 7: At the 4-hour mark, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 160°F.
8. Step 8 (optional): For crispy skin, preheat the broiler to high and position the top oven rack 6-8 inches from the heat. Transfer the chicken to a roasting pan, brush with olive oil, and broil for 5 to 8 minutes until the skin is golden brown.
9. Step 9: If not broiling, turn off the slow cooker and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10. Step 10: Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme inside the chicken cavity before cooking.
• To vary the seasoning, try a blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder instead of the chicken seasoning.
• If you prefer, cook the chicken on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, but check frequently to avoid overcooking.

Storage

Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I cook a larger chicken in the slow cooker?

Yes, but cooking times will increase. For chickens over 5 pounds, plan for 6 to 8 hours on low and always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 78 reviews

This Slow Cooker Whole Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker. Seasoned simply with salt, pepper, olive oil, and chicken seasoning, it’s a convenient and flavorful way to prepare a hearty meal at home. Optional broiling at the end adds perfectly crispy skin for a delicious finishing touch.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 Whole Chicken (about 4–5 pounds)

Seasoning

• Salt and Pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Chicken Seasoning

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the skin dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure better seasoning adherence and cooking.
2. Prepare the slow cooker: Lightly coat the inside of your slow cooker with olive oil to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
3. Season the chicken: Generously season the whole chicken inside and out with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
4. Place chicken in slow cooker: Set the chicken inside the slow cooker, breast side up to ensure even cooking.
5. Coat with oil and seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil with the chicken seasoning; then rub this mixture all over the chicken thoroughly for balanced seasoning.
6. Slow cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook the chicken on LOW heat for 4 to 6 hours. Check at 4 hours for doneness with a meat thermometer.
7. Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer around the 4-hour mark to ensure the chicken reaches at least 160°F internal temperature for food safety.
8. Optional broiling for crispy skin: To crisp the skin, preheat your broiler to high and place the oven rack about 6-8 inches from the heat source. Transfer the chicken to a roasting pan, brush it with olive oil, and broil for 5 to 8 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
9. Rest the chicken: If skipping broiling, turn off the slow cooker and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
10. Serve: Serve the chicken warm, pairing it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
11. Store leftovers: Cool the chicken completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Broiling at the end is optional but recommended for crispy skin.
• Cooking times may vary depending on slow cooker model and chicken size.
• Remove giblets before cooking as they can affect flavor and texture.
• Letting the meat rest allows juices to redistribute, making the chicken moist.
• You can customize the chicken seasoning to your preferred blend of herbs and spices.

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