A deliciously moist and flavorful whole chicken is just a slow cooker away! This effortless recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of thyme and rosemary, and the richness of olive oil to create a truly mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ready Time

7 hrs

Yields

8 servings

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs), 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 lemons, 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.

Cut one of the lemons in half and squeeze the juice all over the chicken, then place the lemon halves inside the chicken’s cavity. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and slice the second lemon on top of the chicken.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.

Notes

Use a large slow cooker to ensure the chicken fits comfortably. Make sure to get some of the rub under the skin for maximum flavor.

If you prefer a crisper skin, remove the chicken from the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving and broil in the oven for a few minutes.

Acidic ingredients like lemon juice help break down the proteins in the chicken, making it tender and juicy. You can serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Refrigerate or freeze leftovers for up to 5 days.

You can also use the leftover chicken to make chicken salad, sandwiches, or soups.