Simple Crockpot Whole Chicken
This simple crockpot whole chicken is one of those easy dinners that feels like a small victory at the end of a busy day. The slow cooker does the work for you, and the result is tender, juicy chicken with cozy flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4 to 5 pounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon halved
- 1 onion quartered
- 4 cloves garlic smashed
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and gives the skin a better finish.
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter, then season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Make sure to season the cavity too for fuller flavor.
- Place the onion, garlic, and lemon inside the cavity of the chicken. These simple ingredients add a lot of flavor while the chicken cooks.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the crockpot, then place the chicken breast-side up on top. Cover and cook on low until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This helps the juices settle back into the meat.
Notes
For the best texture, do not overcook the chicken. Start checking early if your slow cooker runs hot, since cook times can vary a bit from one appliance to another.
If you want the skin a little more golden, you can place the cooked chicken under a broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking. Keep a close eye on it so it does not burn.
Also, resist the urge to lift the lid too often. Every time you peek, heat escapes and the chicken may take longer to finish.