Slow Cooker Recipe for Whole Chicken and Vegetables Made Simple

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a whole chicken slow-cooked to tender perfection alongside hearty vegetables. This slow cooker recipe for whole chicken and vegetables is the ultimate weeknight solution when you want a delicious, wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing all the hard work, you’ll come home to a flavorful, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked vegetables that soak up all those savory juices. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is both convenient and crowd-pleasing.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily swap vegetables or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Plus, the slow cooker method locks in moisture and flavor, making the chicken incredibly juicy and the veggies melt-in-your-mouth soft. If you’re a fan of hearty, rustic meals that require little effort but deliver big on taste, you’re going to love making this classic slow cooker chicken dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker whole chicken recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s fuss-free!

Just season, layer your ingredients, and let the slow cooker do its magic. No need to constantly watch or stir, freeing up your time to relax or focus on other tasks.

Additionally, the combination of chicken and mixed vegetables creates a balanced meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The slow cooking method ensures the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender, while the vegetables absorb the rich flavors from the broth and herbs.

For those who appreciate healthy home-cooked meals, this recipe offers lean protein and nutrient-packed vegetables, all cooked without added fats. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, or anyone who loves satisfying comfort food.

Plus, you can customize it easily by adding your favorite herbs and spices!

Ingredients

Equipment

• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or fork for handling chicken
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Remove any giblets from the cavity of the chicken. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for better seasoning adherence.
2. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. For extra flavor, place a few lemon slices inside the cavity as well.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Peel and chop carrots, potatoes, onion, and celery into large chunks. Toss them with a tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Layer the slow cooker: Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly on the bottom of the slow cooker. This will act as a flavorful bed for the chicken and also keep it from sitting directly on the slow cooker base.
5. Place the chicken: Lay the whole chicken breast-side up on top of the vegetable bed.
6. Add chicken broth: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth gently around the vegetables, avoiding washing off the seasoning on the chicken.
7. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
8. Optional crisping: For crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Be sure to watch it carefully to prevent burning.
9. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve the tender chicken alongside the flavorful vegetables and spoon some of the cooking juices over the top.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To infuse even more flavor, consider stuffing the chicken cavity with fresh herbs like sage or thyme, or a halved onion instead of lemon.

Variation: Swap potatoes with sweet potatoes or add parsnips and turnips for a different vegetable medley. You can also add a splash of white wine to the broth for extra depth.

If you want a gluten-free or paleo-friendly version, just ensure your chicken broth is free from additives or use homemade broth.

For a twist on this recipe, try using different herbs such as oregano or tarragon, or sprinkle some chili flakes for a hint of heat. You can even add a can of diced tomatoes to the vegetables for a more robust sauce.

Curious about other slow cooker recipes? Check out my Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals for plant-based inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker whole chicken pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon to keep things fresh and light. If you want a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the savory juices.

For a low-carb option, you can add steamed asparagus or green beans on the side. Leftovers make great sandwiches or can be shredded over rice or quinoa for a quick lunch.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes that complement this meal, like the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious or the comforting Baked Chicken Thigh with Vegetable Recipes for Easy Dinner.

Conclusion

Slow cooker whole chicken with vegetables is a timeless dish that combines convenience, flavor, and nutrition in one pot. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy a wholesome meal that tastes like it was cooked all day by a professional chef.

The slow cooking process ensures every bite is juicy, tender, and packed with savory goodness.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, the versatility in vegetables and seasonings means you can tailor it to your personal taste or what you have on hand.

Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becoming your go-to comfort meal!

For more inspiring and easy recipes, explore my collection of Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade and Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide to round out your cooking repertoire.

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