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Slow Cooker Whole Chicken with Garlic + Herbs

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This slow cooker whole chicken is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Seasoned with garlic, herbs, and a touch of lemon, it’s a no-fuss dinner that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day. Perfect for a cozy family meal or easy meal prep for the week!


Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds), giblets removed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon paprika

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

  • 2 teaspoons onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

  • 6 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed

  • 1 lemon, halved

  • 1 onion, quartered

  • Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme), optional for stuffing


Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

  2. Rub olive oil all over the chicken.

  3. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.

  4. Stuff the cavity with garlic cloves, lemon halves, onion, and fresh herbs if using.

  5. Place a few onion slices or balls of foil at the bottom of the slow cooker to lift the chicken slightly.

  6. Place the seasoned chicken on top.

  7. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

  8. Optional: For crispy skin, place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 4–5 minutes.

  9. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.


Notes

  • Use the leftover juices from the slow cooker as a base for gravy.

  • You can add carrots and potatoes to the slow cooker for a full one-pot meal.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of chicken
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg