This slow cooker whole chicken is juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to a lovely mix of herbs. Toss it in the pot and let it cook all day while you go about your life!
I enjoy coming home to a warm, tasty meal. Plus, the smell of herbs filling the house is simply divine! It’s like a comforting hug after a long day. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Chicken: This is the star of the dish! A 4-5 lb chicken works great here. If you’re looking for a smaller portion, a smaller chicken or even a spatchcocked chicken can be used. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the herbs stick. If you don’t have it on hand, feel free to swap in melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Parsley): Fresh herbs make a big difference! If you don’t have fresh, use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs per tablespoon of fresh. My personal favorite combo is rosemary and thyme!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic really enhances flavor. If you’re pressed for time, garlic powder can substitute, but I prefer the taste of fresh!
Lemon: The lemon helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a nice brightness. In a pinch, lime works too!
Vegetables: You can mix and match the veggies. Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or celery can replace the carrots and potatoes. This recipe is super flexible!
How Do You Get the Perfectly Cooked Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking a whole chicken in a slow cooker can be easy, but getting it just right is key for perfect tenderness and flavor. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve a nice texture.
- Don’t rush the cooking time. If you’re using low heat, aim for 6-7 hours; on high, about 3-4 hours.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- Broiling for a few minutes can give you that golden, crispy skin without drying out the meat!
Taking the time to season well and monitor cooking will yield a juicy, flavorful chicken your family will love!
How to Make Slow Cooker Whole Chicken with Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby potatoes, quartered
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- Optional: 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine for extra moisture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This slow cooker whole chicken requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Total time is around 7-8 hours, which gives you plenty of time to relax while the flavors meld!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix them together to create a flavorful herb paste. This mixture is what will make your chicken taste magical!
2. Rub the Chicken:
Using paper towels, pat the whole chicken dry. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Take your herb paste and rub it all over the chicken, making sure to get it underneath the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor!
3. Add the Lemon:
Take the halved lemon and place it inside the chicken’s cavity. The lemon will keep the chicken moist and add a wonderful flavor as it cooks.
4. Layer the Vegetables:
Now, arrange the quartered baby potatoes, carrot chunks, and onion at the bottom of your slow cooker. If you’d like, pour in the chicken broth or white wine. This will keep everything moist while adding extra flavor to the veggies!
5. Place the Chicken in the Slow Cooker:
Carefully set the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables, making sure it’s breast side up. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
6. Cook the Chicken:
Set your slow cooker to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh. Take a moment to marvel at the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
7. Finish with Crispy Skin (Optional):
If you prefer crispy skin, carefully transfer the chicken to a baking sheet. Broil it in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely until the skin turns golden brown. This step is optional, but it definitely adds an extra touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your beautifully cooked chicken with fresh rosemary sprigs, and serve alongside the tender slow-cooked vegetables. Get ready for a hearty, mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
Enjoy your flavorful, tender slow cooker whole chicken infused with fragrant herbs!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it first! The safest method is to place the chicken in the fridge for 24 hours before cooking. If you’re short on time, submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for quicker thawing, changing the water every 30 minutes.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No problem! You can substitute dried herbs, just use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so adjust to your taste. Mix dried herbs into the olive oil to ensure they release their flavor during cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover the chicken with foil to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match any vegetables you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers can be great additions. Just make sure they’re cut to a similar size for even cooking!