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this image shows perfectly cooked whole chicken is served on a square white plate, surrounded by caramelized onions that enhance its flavor, making for a hearty and comforting meal.

Crockpot Whole Chicken Recipe

This Crockpot Whole Chicken recipe is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy a tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort. Seasoned with a homemade spice rub and slow-cooked to perfection, it’s ideal for busy days when you crave a hearty, comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 320 kcal

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.
    this image shows bowl filled with various spices and seasonings being mixed together, ready to coat the crockpot whole chicken for a flavorful dish.
  • Remove the giblets from the chicken, clean it, and pat it dry.
    this image shows A raw whole chicken is shown being prepared by patting it dry with paper towels, an essential step before applying spices and cooking.
  • Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring it’s coated well.
    this image shows whole chicken being thoroughly coated with a spice mixture, ensuring it is evenly seasoned for flavorful and aromatic cooking.
  • For best results, place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag and refrigerate overnight, though this step can be skipped if short on time.
    this image shows seasoned whole chicken is shown placed in a bowl and covered, resting in the refrigerator to allow the spices to penetrate for better flavor.
  • When ready to cook, spread chopped onions evenly across the bottom of the crockpot.
    this image shows crockpot base is prepared with a generous layer of caramelized onions, creating a flavorful foundation for the whole chicken.
  • Place the seasoned chicken on top of the onions.
    this image shows seasoned whole chicken is gently placed in the crockpot on top of a bed of caramelized onions, ready for slow cooking.
  • Avoid adding liquid as the chicken will release its own juices.
    this image shows A tender and golden whole chicken, fresh out of the crockpot, sits with caramelized onions, ready for plating and serving.
  • Cover the crockpot with the lid.
    this image shows crockpot is shown cooking the whole chicken, surrounded by steam and onions, ensuring the meat turns tender and juicy.
  • Cook on low for 4-8 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
    this image shows A tender and golden whole chicken, fresh out of the crockpot, sits with caramelized onions, ready for plating and serving.
  • A pop-up timer in the chicken is highly recommended to account for variations in crockpot cooking times.
    this image shows beautifully cooked crockpot whole chicken is served on a plate with caramelized onions, showcasing its rich flavor and tender texture.

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.