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Homemade Easy Whole Chicken in a Crockpot photo

Easy Whole Chicken in a Crockpot

A simple, hands-off slow-cooker whole chicken with minimal prep and tender results.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole roasting hen (whole chicken)
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup broth chicken or vegetable
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted, optional
  • lemon slices for garnish, optional
  • rosemary sprigs for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Slow cooker/crockpot
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring cup
  • Paper Towels
  • tongs or large spoons
  • oven-safe skillet (optional for broiling)
  • basting brush (optional)

Method
 

  1. Remove the whole chicken from packaging, rinse if desired, and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Season the inside cavity and the outside of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon dried thyme evenly over the chicken.
  4. Pour 1/4 cup broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.
  5. Place the chicken in the slow cooker breast-side up.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for about 8 hours; do not lift the lid while cooking.
  7. When cooking is complete, the chicken should be tender; for crisper skin (optional), carefully transfer the chicken to an oven-safe skillet.
  8. If using the broiler, brush melted butter over the skin and broil 3–5 minutes until golden and crisp, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Garnish with lemon slices and rosemary if desired, then carve and serve.

Notes

  • Use a roasting hen for best tenderness.
  • Seasonings can be adjusted; salt and pepper are a good base.
  • The skin will not be fully crispy unless finished under the broiler.
  • This chicken works well shredded for other recipes.
  • Do not add extra water while cooking; the broth is sufficient.