Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

This sumptuous slow cooker whole chicken recipe is your ticket to a no-fuss dinner. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, and all it takes is a little prep time. You get to come home to a juicy, flavorful chicken that's ready to carve. Not to mention, the aroma that fills your kitchen is absolutely divine. The vegetables get a nice, slow cook and have all the savory flavors of the chicken. The result is a comforting, satisfying meal with the bonus of a homemade gravy.

Photos of Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are pretty straightforward and can be found in your local supermarket. However, there are a few items you'll need to be aware of. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme will impart a more robust flavor than their dried counterparts. If you can't find them fresh, dried herbs will work in a pinch. Also, make sure to pick up a whole chicken that will fit in your slow cooker. Lastly, you'll need a fat separator for the gravy, but don't worry if you don't have one. You can also use a spoon to skim the fat off the top of the drippings.

Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe Ingredients

Celery ribs: Celery adds a nice crunch and refreshing flavor. It's also a great source of antioxidants.

Carrots: Carrots provide a sweet flavor and an extra dose of nutrition.

Red onion: Red onion brings a mild flavor and adds a lovely color to the dish.

Garlic cloves: Garlic infuses the chicken with a savory depth of flavor.

Rosemary sprigs: Rosemary imparts a woody, herbal taste and is a classic pairing with chicken.

Thyme sprigs: Thyme adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Chicken: The star of this dish is a whole chicken, which turns incredibly tender and juicy in the slow cooker.

Butter: Butter makes the gravy rich and silky. It also helps to thicken it.

All-purpose flour: All-purpose flour is used to thicken the gravy, giving it a nice, creamy texture.

One reader, Francine Waltz says:

This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is a game-changer! The chicken turned out incredibly tender and flavorful, and the gravy was the perfect finishing touch. The veggies were a delightful bonus. It's so easy to make, and the result is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying it out!

Francine Waltz

Techniques Required for Making a Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

How to prepare the chicken: This involves removing the giblets and neck from the chicken, then drying the outside and inside of the chicken with paper towels before spreading the seasoning paste evenly over the chicken skin.

How to make the gravy: This involves transferring the chicken drippings to a fat separator, then melting unsalted butter in a pan and whisking in the flour to form a pale roux. Gradually whisk in the defatted chicken drippings and stir continuously until thickened. Add more chicken drippings for a thinner sauce, then season with salt and pepper.

How To Make Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Make cooking easier by whipping up our slow cooker chicken recipe! The chicken is cooked with an array of tender and seasoned vegetables for a filling meal.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Rest Time: 15 minutes

Total: 4 hours 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6celery ribscut into 2-inch pieces
2carrotspeeled and cut into 1½ inch pieces
1red onionpeeled and cut into 8 wedges
8ozred potatoescut into 1-inch pieces
5garlic clovespeeled and smashed
4rosemary sprigs
4thyme sprigs
2tspkosher saltplus more for seasoning
1½tsppaprika
½tspblack pepperplus more for seasoning
½tspdried thymeor 1 tsp chopped fresh
4tspolive oilplus more for brushing
5lbchicken

For Gravy:

2tbspunsalted butter
2tbspall-purpose flour

Instructions

Chicken:

Arrange the celery, carrots, onion, garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme sprigs in a nest into a 6-quart slow cooker bowl.
Combine the salt, paprika, black pepper, dried thyme, and olive oil in a small bowl.
Remove the giblets and neck from the chicken.
Dry the outside and inside of the chicken with paper towels.
Spread the seasoning paste evenly over the chicken skin.
Place the chicken breast side-up on the vegetables.
Cover and cook on the High setting for 4 to 5 hours, or Low setting for 6 to 8 hours.
Breasts should reach an internal temperature of 160 to 165 degrees F, and the thighs reach 170 degrees F.

Crispy Skin (Optional):

Carefully transfer the chicken to a foil-lined baking tray with a rack on top.
Brush the chicken with olive oil.
Broil the chicken 10-inches away from the top of the oven for 5 minutes until the skin is browned and crisp.
Transfer to a foil-lined baking tray of vegetables, then broil 10-inches away from the top of the oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
Transfer the chicken to a carving board, then let rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Gravy:

Transfer chicken drippings to a fat separator.
Heat a medium-sized pan over medium heat.
Melt the unsalted butter in the pan and then whisk in the flour.
Once a pale roux is formed, turn the heat up to medium-high.
Gradually whisk in 1 cup of the defatted chicken drippings.
Stir continuously for 2 minutes until thickened.
Add more chicken drippings for a thinner sauce, then season with salt and pepper.
Place the vegetables to a platter, then top the chicken over.
Serve chicken with gravy, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1417.08kcal
Fat: 96.47g
Saturated Fat: 28.97g
Trans Fat: 0.78g
Monounsaturated Fat: 40.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 19.28g
Carbohydrates: 23.41g
Fiber: 5.06g
Sugar: 4.45g
Protein: 108.78g
Cholesterol: 440.51mg
Sodium: 1421.97mg
Calcium: 152.94mg
Potassium: 1727.15mg
Iron: 7.30mg
Vitamin A: 584.92µg
Vitamin C: 27.05mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

To ensure that your chicken is cooked evenly in the slow cooker, it's important to place it breast side up. This allows the heat to circulate around the bird, ensuring that the breast meat, which can often dry out, stays juicy and tender. Additionally, using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken is crucial for food safety and to avoid overcooking. The breast should reach an internal temperature of 160 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, and the thighs should reach 170 degrees Fahrenheit.

Time-Saving Tips for Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out seasonings the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut vegetables to minimize prep time and effort.

Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and less time spent on washing dishes.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, use the time to prepare side dishes or work on other tasks to maximize efficiency.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife can make chopping and prepping ingredients quicker and more efficient.

Plan your meals: Plan a weekly menu to streamline grocery shopping and meal preparation, saving time and reducing waste.

Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, saving time during cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

celery ribs - Substitute with fennel bulbs: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can work well in slow cooker recipes.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor than carrots, and they hold up well in slow cooking, adding a unique taste to the dish.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to red onions and work well in slow cooker recipes, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
red potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and a buttery flavor, making them a great substitute for red potatoes in slow cooker recipes.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a similar flavor and aroma to the dish.
rosemary sprigs - Substitute with thyme sprigs: Thyme has a slightly earthy and floral flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the slow cooker recipe.
thyme sprigs - Substitute with oregano sprigs: Oregano has a robust and slightly peppery flavor that can add depth to the dish, similar to thyme.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste in a similar way to regular paprika.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor compared to black pepper and can be used as a substitute to add a different dimension to the dish.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can be used as a substitute for dried thyme, providing a similar herbaceous flavor to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for slow cooking and a good substitute for olive oil.
chicken - Substitute with cornish game hen: Cornish game hen is a smaller poultry option that can be cooked whole in a slow cooker, providing a similar taste and texture to chicken.
unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee, or clarified butter, can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the gravy.

Presenting Your Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow-cooked whole chicken, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Arrange the vegetables in a nest-like formation, and carefully place the beautifully browned and crispy-skinned chicken on top, creating a stunning centerpiece for the dish.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to add a pop of color and a touch of natural beauty to the plating. The vibrant green hues of the herbs will complement the golden-brown tones of the chicken and create a visually striking presentation.
Highlight the crispy skin: Showcase the perfectly crisped skin of the chicken by carefully arranging it on the serving platter. The glistening, golden-brown skin will serve as a focal point, enticing diners with its irresistible appeal.
Create a harmonious composition: Pay attention to the arrangement of the dish, ensuring that each element is thoughtfully placed to create a balanced and visually appealing composition. Consider the color, texture, and placement of each component to achieve a harmonious presentation.
Emphasize the gravy: Drizzle the rich and flavorful gravy over the chicken and vegetables with precision, adding an extra layer of indulgence to the dish. The glossy sheen of the gravy will enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience.
Utilize elegant serving platters: Choose sophisticated and refined serving platters and dinnerware to complement the upscale nature of the dish. Opt for sleek, minimalist designs that allow the vibrant colors of the food to take center stage.
Incorporate artistic elements: Consider incorporating artistic elements such as delicate edible flowers or microgreens to add a touch of sophistication and artistry to the presentation. These subtle yet impactful details will elevate the overall aesthetic of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making a Whole Chicken in a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering, which requires maintaining a relatively low temperature. It's perfect for cooking the whole chicken recipe slowly and evenly.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for prepping the vegetables, trimming the chicken, and carving the cooked chicken.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping the vegetables and preparing the chicken.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing the seasoning paste for the chicken.
Basting brush: A basting brush is used for brushing olive oil onto the chicken before broiling to achieve a crispy skin.
Slow cooker liner: While optional, a slow cooker liner can make cleanup easier after cooking the chicken.
Instant-read thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it's fully cooked.
Fat separator: A fat separator is used for separating the fat from the chicken drippings when making the gravy.
Medium-sized pan: A medium-sized pan is used for making the gravy by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding the chicken drippings.
Whisk: A whisk is used for stirring and thickening the gravy.

Storing and Freezing Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Allow the slow cooker whole chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Remove any remaining vegetables and herbs from the slow cooker and discard.
Carve the chicken into desired portions, such as breasts, thighs, and wings.
For storing in the refrigerator:
- Place the carved chicken pieces into an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For freezing:
- Wrap the carved chicken pieces tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring no air pockets remain.
- Place the wrapped chicken pieces into a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Store the chicken in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the stored or frozen chicken:
- For refrigerated chicken, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken pieces in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- For frozen chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated chicken.
To store any leftover gravy, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the gravy in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can become rubbery.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover chicken, try shredding it and adding it to a soup or stew. The slow cooker is perfect for this method. Simply add the shredded chicken to the slow cooker along with some broth, vegetables, and your favorite seasonings. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, or until the soup is heated through.
Another delicious way to reheat leftover chicken is to make a chicken pot pie. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, and a can of cream of chicken soup. Pour the mixture into a pie crust and top with another crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
For a healthier option, try making a chicken salad. Shred the leftover chicken and mix it with some Greek yogurt, chopped celery, and your favorite seasonings. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or in a whole wheat wrap.

Random Fact About Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

The slow cooker whole chicken recipe is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a flavorful meal. It allows for the chicken to cook slowly, resulting in tender and juicy meat. This method also allows the flavors of the vegetables and herbs to infuse into the chicken, enhancing its taste. Additionally, using a slow cooker can save time and effort in the kitchen, making it a great option for busy days. This recipe provides a wholesome and satisfying meal for the whole family, and it's a great way to enjoy a homemade comfort food dish.

Is Making a Whole Chicken in a Slow Cooker Cost-Effective?

This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as celery, carrots, red potatoes, and chicken makes it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the dish also allows for the utilization of leftover ingredients. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an economical choice. The convenience of using a slow cooker further adds to its cost-effectiveness, requiring minimal energy consumption. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The slow cooker whole chicken recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and herbs. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The herbs and spices add flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives.

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

The skin of the chicken, although crispy and flavorful, is high in saturated fat. Removing the skin before cooking or before serving can significantly reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
The gravy, made with butter and flour, adds extra calories and fat to the meal. Consider skipping the gravy or using a lower-fat alternative, such as a broth-based sauce thickened with cornstarch.

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables in the dish. Add nutrient-dense options like bell peppers, zucchini, or leafy greens to boost the vitamin and mineral content.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt. Try using lemon zest, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for a flavorful twist.
Serve the chicken with a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates to the meal.
Use the leftover chicken in salads, sandwiches, or soups to create balanced meals throughout the week.

Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe

The slow cooker whole chicken recipe is a delightful and convenient way to prepare a succulent and flavorful chicken dish. The combination of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors, while the slow cooking process ensures tender, juicy meat. The optional step to crisp the chicken skin adds a delightful textural contrast. The accompanying gravy, made from the chicken drippings, elevates the dish with its rich and savory flavor. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, seasoned with herbs and drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Garlic Bread: Warm and toasty garlic bread, brushed with herb-infused butter and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate your favorite vegetables and grill them to perfection for a healthy and delicious side dish or main course.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: Create a savory and satisfying stir fry with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a flavorful sauce for a quick and easy meal.

Mango Sorbet: Blend ripe mangoes with a touch of sugar and lime juice, then freeze for a refreshing and fruity dessert option.

Chicken Noodle Soup: Simmer chicken, vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth for a comforting and classic soup that's perfect for any time of year.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Elevate your appetizer game with these colorful and refreshing caprese skewers. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Whole Chicken Recipe:

This slow cooker whole chicken recipe guarantees succulent and flavorful results, thanks to the use of fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme, enhancing the aroma and taste. The combination of paprika and olive oil creates a rich and savory seasoning paste, ensuring a crispy and golden-brown skin. The slow cooking process allows the vegetables to infuse the chicken with their natural flavors, resulting in a wholesome and hearty dish. The addition of a homemade gravy made from the chicken drippings promises a delectable finishing touch. Trust in the quality and balance of ingredients for a delightful dining experience.

Share your experience with this slow cooker whole chicken recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

How long should I cook the chicken in the slow cooker?

Cook the chicken on the high setting for 4 to 5 hours, or on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours. The breasts should reach an internal temperature of 160 to 165 degrees F, and the thighs should reach 170 degrees F.

Can I skip broiling the chicken for crispy skin?

Yes, broiling the chicken is optional. If you prefer not to broil the chicken, you can skip this step and still enjoy a deliciously cooked whole chicken.

Can I use other vegetables in the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the vegetables to your preference. You can use vegetables such as bell peppers, parsnips, or even butternut squash to add your own twist to the recipe.

How do I know when the gravy is ready?

The gravy is ready when it has thickened to your desired consistency. Be sure to continuously stir for about 2 minutes after gradually whisking in the defatted chicken drippings. You can adjust the thickness by adding more chicken drippings if needed.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

While the slow cooker method yields tender and flavorful results, you can still make this recipe in the oven. Simply follow the same steps and cook the chicken in a roasting pan at 350 degrees F for approximately 20 minutes per pound, until it reaches the recommended internal temperatures.