Tender & Juicy Crock Pot Whole Chicken Recipe
This Crock Pot Whole Chicken recipe is the ultimate solution for a juicy, tender, and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Slow-cooked to perfection, the chicken is infused with a rich blend of garlic, herbs, and buttery goodness. Perfect for family dinners, it’s versatile enough for meal prep or special occasions. The optional crispy skin step adds a golden, irresistible finish. Save the flavorful broth for soups or gravies to maximize every bit of this easy and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
1 (5-lb) Whole Chicken
1 Large Yellow Onion, cut into large pieces
6 tbsp Unsalted Butter, softened (plus extra for greasing)
1 Head Garlic, 4 cloves minced, remaining peeled and whole
12 Sprigs Fresh Thyme, divided (half whole, half leaves only)
4 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary, divided (half whole, half chopped)
2 tsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
2 tsp Sea Salt
1/2 tsp Paprika
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions:
Prep the Chicken
1. Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry inside and out. Drying ensures the herb butter adheres properly.
Make the Herb Butter
2. In a small bowl, mash together:
Butter
4 minced garlic cloves
6 chopped thyme sprigs
2 chopped rosemary sprigs
Parsley, salt, paprika, and black pepper.
(Tip: If the butter is firm, soften it using a warm water bath.)
Prepare the Crock Pot
3. Grease the Crock Pot base with butter. Add onion pieces to form a layer.
4. Place the whole chicken breast side up on top of the onions.
Season the Chicken
5. Carefully separate the skin from the chicken breast, thighs, and legs using your hands.
6. Spread half the herb butter under the skin and rub the remaining butter on the outside of the chicken.
Stuff & Cook
7. Stuff the chicken cavity with:
Remaining garlic cloves
2 whole rosemary sprigs
6 whole thyme sprigs.
Tie the legs with kitchen twine.
8. Cover and cook on:
Low: 5-8 hours
High: 3-4.5 hours
(Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C.)
Optional: Crispy Skin
Preheat the broiler. Transfer the chicken to a roasting pan, breast side up. Broil for 4-6 minutes until golden and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, tented with foil, before carving. Discard onions but save the flavorful broth for soups or gravies.
Perfect for Meal Prep!
Use leftovers in soups, salads, or sandwiches. This Crock Pot Whole Chicken is an easy, versatile recipe that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress.
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