Crockpot Whole Chicken
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
6 hrs
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Servings
6
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Calories
422 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Crockpot Whole Chicken
Description
Prepare by placing chopped onions at the slow cooker's base, then seasoning a whole chicken thoroughly with a mixed spice blend both under and over the skin to maximize flavor penetration. The chicken rests chilled overnight before cooking. The slow cooker is set to low to cook the chicken for 5 to 6 hours until tender and cooked through. The onions beneath add moisture and flavor to the cooking environment.
The chicken develops subtle smokiness and balanced heat from the cayenne and smoked paprika. The low-and-slow cooking method ensures a moist texture without drying. For a more browned skin finish, briefly broil after slow cooking. Serving suggestions include pairing the chicken with fluffy rice or potatoes to absorb the cooking juices.
Adjust salt quantity for smaller birds as needed. Planning to prepare overnight is recommended for optimal seasoning. Leftovers can be stored and reheated.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion chopped
- 5-6 lbs chicken whole
- 4 tsp salt
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp white pepper
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place chopped onion on bottom slow cooker. Remove giblets from chicken and towel dry entire chicken well, both inside and out - this step is important to ensure chicken doesn't turn out "watery." Using your fingers, gently pry the skin away from the chicken all around, so you'll be able to season chicken underneath skin.
- Combine Spices (can be done in advance:) In a small bowl, combine all the spices, from salt to black pepper. Mix well. Use your hands to evenly spread two-thirds of the spice mixture onto chicken, underneath the skin. Be sure to include all areas of chicken (legs, back, thighs, etc.) Use remaining spice mixture to spread on top of skin. Place seasoned chicken on top of chopped onion in slow cooker. Cover and keep chilled overnight.
- Cook: When ready to cook, turn slow cooker on Low for 5-6 hours only. Keep on warm until ready to serve.
Notes
- Adjust salt amounts if using a smaller chicken.
- Cooking the chicken overnight after seasoning improves flavor absorption.
- Broiling the chicken briefly after slow cooking gives a browned, crispy skin.
- Serve over rice or potatoes to enjoy the flavorful cooking juices.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 422 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 422kcal | 21% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 35g | 70% |
| Fat | 28g | 43% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6g | 35% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 11g | 55% |
| Trans Fat | 0.2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 136mg | 45% |
| Sodium | 160mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 422mg | 9% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 738IU | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 7% |
| Calcium | 33mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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