Slow Cooker Whole Chicken with Garlic + Herbs

Juicy, tender, and infused with the rich flavors of garlic and fresh herbs, this Slow Cooker Whole Chicken is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner. Cooking a whole chicken in the slow cooker not only delivers incredible taste but also fills your home with the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to make a flavorful, fuss-free roast chicken without turning on the oven. It’s perfect for meal prepping, Sunday dinners, or even impressing guests with minimal effort.

• Easy one-pot, hands-off cooking
• Incredibly juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender
• Infused with fresh garlic and aromatic herbs
• Makes a beautiful main dish with minimal cleanup
• Perfect for leftovers and repurposing

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Whole chicken
• Fresh garlic cloves
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Onion
• Lemon
• Salt and black pepper
• Paprika
• Chicken broth or water

directions

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and remove any giblets.
2. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter.
3. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Stuff the cavity with halved lemon, a few garlic cloves, and sprigs of fresh herbs.
5. Place thick slices of onion at the bottom of the slow cooker to form a base.
6. Set the seasoned chicken on top of the onions. Add remaining garlic cloves and herbs around it.
7. Pour a small amount of broth or water into the bottom (about ½ cup).
8. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
9. Optional: For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 5–8 minutes.
10. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high
Total Time: Approx. 6–8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Citrus Twist: Use oranges or limes instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor.
• Butter Herb Blend: Mix softened butter with chopped herbs and garlic, and rub it under the skin.
• Vegetable Base: Add carrots, celery, and potatoes beneath the chicken for a built-in side dish.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika or a touch of liquid smoke for depth.

storage/reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

To reheat, cover and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals. Add a splash of broth to keep the meat moist. Leftovers can also be used in soups, sandwiches, or salads.

Freeze shredded or chopped chicken in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I cook the chicken from frozen?

No, for safety and even cooking, always thaw the chicken completely before slow cooking.

Do I need to brown the chicken first?

It’s optional. Browning it in a pan before slow cooking can add extra flavor and color, but it’s not necessary.

Can I stuff the chicken with more than lemon and herbs?

Yes, you can add aromatics like onion, garlic, or even apple slices inside the cavity.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.

Can I use dried herbs instead?

Yes, substitute with about one-third the amount of dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available.

What size chicken works best?

A 4 to 5-pound chicken fits most slow cookers and cooks evenly in the given time.

Will the skin be crispy?

No, slow cookers don’t crisp skin. To get it crispy, finish the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes.

Can I cook vegetables with the chicken?

Absolutely. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes work well and absorb the flavorful juices.

Do I need to add broth or water?

A small amount (about ½ cup) helps create steam and keeps the chicken moist, but you don’t need much.

Can I use the leftover broth?

Yes, strain and use it as a flavorful base for soups, gravies, or rice dishes.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Whole Chicken with Garlic and Herbs is a perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. It’s a wholesome, comforting dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights, special occasions, or anything in between. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you’ll have a beautiful main dish with minimal effort and maximum reward.

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