5 Easy Crock Pot Whole Chicken Recipes

The idea of cooking a whole chicken might seem daunting or time-consuming, but with a Crock Pot, also known as a slow cooker, it becomes an effortless task that yields delicious results. Slow cooking retains moisture, infuses flavors, and ensures the chicken is tender, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Here are five easy Crock Pot whole chicken recipes that will transform your culinary routine, each bringing a unique twist to the classic roasted chicken.

1. Classic Herb Crock Pot Chicken

Nothing beats the simplicity and taste of a chicken seasoned with an array of fresh herbs:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3-4 sprigs of rosemary, thyme, and parsley
• 3 cloves of garlic, peeled
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Directions:

1. Rinse the chicken inside and out, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper.
2. Place half the lemon slices, garlic, and herb sprigs inside the cavity.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season the skin with more salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Set the chicken breast side up in the Crock Pot, arrange the remaining lemon slices around it.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

👩‍🍳 Note: Using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.

2. Crock Pot Chicken with 40 Cloves of Garlic

The magic of garlic transforms this chicken into a gourmet treat:

• 1 whole chicken
• 40 cloves of garlic, peeled
• Fresh thyme
• 1 cup chicken stock
• Olive oil

Directions:

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with a few sprigs of thyme.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan, sear the chicken until golden.
3. Transfer the chicken to the Crock Pot, scatter garlic cloves around and on top, pour in chicken stock.
4. Cook on low for 7-8 hours.

🧄 Note: Garlic gets tender when slow-cooked and can be spread like butter on bread.

3. Hawaiian Pineapple Crock Pot Chicken

Bring a taste of the islands to your dinner table with this tropical twist:

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 can of pineapple chunks with juice
• ¹⁄₂ cup soy sauce
• ¹⁄₄ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp grated ginger

Directions:

1. Mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and ginger in a bowl.
2. Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper, place in the Crock Pot.
3. Pour the pineapple mixture over the chicken, add pineapple chunks.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, basting occasionally.

🌺 Note: Pineapple not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.

4. Mediterranean Spiced Chicken in the Crock Pot

Take your taste buds on a journey with this flavorful Mediterranean-inspired recipe:

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tbsp oregano
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil

Directions:

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and minced garlic.
2. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices.
3. Place the chicken in the Crock Pot, drizzle with olive oil.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

🇬🇷 Note: Serve this chicken with rice or couscous to soak up all the delicious juices.

5. Butter Lemon Chicken in the Crock Pot

This recipe is for those who enjoy a rich, buttery taste combined with zesty lemon:

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 stick of butter, room temperature
• 1 large lemon, zested and sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Combine butter with lemon zest and garlic, season with salt and pepper.
2. Gently lift the skin of the chicken and spread the butter mixture under the skin, on the breast and thighs.
3. Season the outside with salt and pepper, place lemon slices inside the cavity.
4. Cook in the Crock Pot on low for 6-8 hours.

🍋 Note: After cooking, pour the juices over the chicken to enhance flavor before serving.

The Crock Pot simplifies the process of cooking a whole chicken, reducing both time and effort while delivering a meal that is both nutritious and delicious. Each of these recipes brings something different to the table, from the classic herb flavors to the exotic tropical pineapple, or the comforting garlic. They demonstrate how versatile and easy slow cooking can be, making it perfect for anyone from busy professionals to novice cooks looking to impress.

Your cooking journey with a whole chicken in the Crock Pot can be as creative or as simple as you wish. The slow cooking method allows for deep flavor development, making each bite a testament to the patience of cooking. Next time you think about roasting a chicken, consider your Crock Pot for a stress-free, flavor-packed meal that's sure to become a family favorite.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out in the Crock Pot?

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Keeping the chicken in liquid helps retain moisture, so ensure there’s enough stock or sauce at the bottom of the pot. Also, cooking on low rather than high heat prevents the chicken from overcooking and drying out.

Can I prepare the chicken the night before and cook it in the morning?

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Yes, you can season and prep the chicken the night before, store it in the fridge, and just place it in the Crock Pot in the morning for an easy, slow-cooked dinner.

What can I do with the leftovers?

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The possibilities are endless. Shred or cut the leftover chicken for sandwiches, salads, soups, or stir-fry dishes. The bones can also be used to make a homemade chicken stock.