Whole Chicken Crockpot Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinners

A tender whole chicken slow-cooked in a crockpot with herbs, garlic, and lemon for a juicy, flavorful meal perfect for effortless weeknight gatherings or cozy family dinners.

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Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 8

Total Time: 8 30

Servings: servings

Calories: 420kcal

Author: Eva Stoner

Ingredients

1.5 to 2.5 kg bone-in whole chicken (e.g., 3.5 to 5.5 pounds)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried thyme
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 large onion, sliced
2 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper

Instructions

Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, cook garlic and herbs for 2-3 minutes until fragrant
Place onion, garlic, and herbs in the crockpot
Rub chicken with salt and pepper, then place on top of aromatics in crockpot
Pour lemon juice, zest, and chicken broth over the chicken
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds
Remove chicken from crockpot and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving or shredding

Notes

Adjust cooking time based on chicken weight: smaller chickens (3.5 lbs) may cook in 6 hours, larger ones (5.5 lbs) may need 8
Add apple cider vinegar or non-alcoholic citrus zest for extra brightness if desired
Use leftover broth in risotto or soup for added flavor
For quicker access, shred the chicken rather than carving it

Nutrition