Cooking a whole chicken in the Crockpot | Slow Cooker Recipes
This is one of the easiest ways to prepare a whole chicken at home using your slow cooker. Simply season the bird with a flavourful blend of garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, paprika, and thyme, then let it cook on high for 4 to 5 hours. The result is succulent, tender meat with a texture remarkably similar to rotisserie chicken, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. No fussing required—just set and forget

Watch: Cooking a whole chicken in the Crockpot | Slow Cooker Recipes
Original recipe video — click to play
Original method: High 4 to 5 hours in slow cooker
Ingredients
Main
- 2 ½ kg whole chicken
Patted dry for best results
Seasonings
- 15 ml salt
- 10 ml granulated garlic powder
- 10 ml granulated onion powder
- 10 ml salt-free lemon pepper
- 5 ml smoked paprika
- 5 ml paprika
- 5 ml dried thyme
Method
- 1
Pat the whole chicken dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture.
~5 minsTip: Drying the chicken helps seasonings adhere better
- 2
In a small bowl, combine the salt, granulated garlic powder, granulated onion powder, salt-free lemon pepper, smoked paprika, paprika, and dried thyme.
~3 minsTip: Mix thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly
- 3
Rub the seasoning mixture generously all over the chicken, inside and out, ensuring even coverage.
~5 minsTip: Be thorough with the cavity and under the wings
- 4
Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up in your slow cooker (at least 6-quart capacity).
~2 minsTip: No liquid is needed for this recipe
- 5
Cover and cook on High for 4 to 5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
~4 hrs 30 minsTip: Do not lift the lid unnecessarily as this releases heat and extends cooking time
- 6
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before carving.
~10 minsTip: Resting helps retain juices and makes carving easier
Nutrition
Detailed nutritional information is coming soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can cook it on Low for approximately 8 to 10 hours. However, High heat is recommended as it produces a texture more similar to rotisserie chicken. Monitor the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 75°C (165°F)
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