Some recipes feel like they do all the heavy lifting for you—and this Crockpot Whole Chicken is one of them. When I first discovered how to make an entire roast chicken in a slow cooker, it felt like a small miracle.
No basting, no oven babysitting, and yet, the result is tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with rich, savory juices perfect for drizzling over rice or soaking up with crusty bread. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
Here’s what makes this recipe stand out: it’s not just convenient—it’s healthier, too. Studies show that slow-cooked meals often retain more nutrients than other cooking methods, making this an ideal option for busy families looking for wholesome, balanced meals.
Plus, the simplicity of seasoning the chicken with a blend of pantry staples like garlic, thyme, and paprika lets the natural flavors shine. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen as this cook is enough to make everyone impatient for dinner.
It’s the perfect centerpiece for cozy weeknights, Sunday lunches, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Pair it with a light and refreshing Kani Salad or a crunchy Simple Oriental Asian Cabbage Salad for a complete, fuss-free meal.
So, grab your slow cooker, and let’s make this happen. Your future self will thank you!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Set it and forget it: The crockpot transforms a simple chicken into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with minimal effort.
- Juicy, not dry: Unlike some oven-roasted chickens, this method guarantees a moist and juicy result every single time.
- Versatile flavors: The seasoning blend is classic yet customizable—swap in your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste.
- Meal prep hero: Leftovers shred easily for tacos, salads, or soups, making it a lifesaver for busy weeks.
- Healthier cooking: Slow cooking locks in nutrients while avoiding the need for extra fats or oils.

Crockpot Whole Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- Crockpot
- Small mixing bowl
- Sharp knife (for onion)
- Resealable plastic bag (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup chopped onion (optional)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 large roasting chicken
- 4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Mix spices in a small bowl.
- Remove the giblets from the chicken, clean it, and pat it dry.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring it’s coated well.
- For best results, place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate overnight, though this step can be skipped if short on time.
- When ready to cook, spread chopped onions evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.
- Place the seasoned chicken on top of the onions.
- Avoid adding liquid as the chicken will release its own juices.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Cook on low for 4-8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- A pop-up timer in the chicken is highly recommended to account for variations in crockpot cooking times.
Notes
- For crispier skin, broil the cooked chicken in the oven for a few minutes after removing it from the crockpot.
- Save the flavorful juices in the crockpot to make a delicious gravy or broth.
Nutrition | Value |
Calories | 320kcal |
Carbohydrates | 1g |
Fibre | 0.2g |
Fat | 18g |
Protein | 40g |
Cholesterol | 120g |