20 Flavorful Crockpot Whole Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Are you tired of the same old weeknight routine? Do you find yourself scrambling to get dinner on the table after a long day? Look no further! Crockpots are a busy cook’s best friend, and we’ve got 20 mouth-watering whole chicken recipes that will revolutionize your weeknight meals.

From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors, our slow cooker whole chicken recipes have something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a tangy BBQ glaze or a savory teriyaki sauce, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are incredibly easy to make and require minimal hands-on time, leaving you free to tackle your day while dinner cooks itself.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of crockpot whole chicken recipes and share our top 20 picks for flavorful meals that will impress even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, grab your slow cooker, and let’s get cooking!

Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Garlic Herb Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
Transform a humble whole chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this easy and aromatic slow cooker recipe. Perfect for a stress-free Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal that’s ready when you are!

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in the slow cooker breast-side up.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Lemon Pepper Crockpot Whole Chicken

Lemon Pepper Crockpot Whole Chicken
Lemon Pepper Crockpot Whole Chicken: A flavorful and moist whole chicken recipe infused with a zesty lemon pepper flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp black peppercorns
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, black pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the lemon mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

BBQ Glazed Slow Cooker Chicken

BBQ Glazed Slow Cooker Chicken
Transform your chicken breasts into a sweet and tangy masterpiece with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying fall-apart tender and flavorful chicken in no time!

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Honey Mustard Crockpot Whole Chicken

Honey Mustard Crockpot Whole Chicken
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional slow-cooked chicken, this recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously moist and flavorful whole chicken in no time!

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the honey-mustard mixture over it.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Spicy Cajun Slow Cooker Chicken

Spicy Cajun Slow Cooker Chicken
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines the bold flavors of Louisiana with tender chicken and a spicy kick. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Rosemary Garlic Butter Whole Chicken

Rosemary Garlic Butter Whole Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this aromatic and flavorful whole chicken recipe, featuring the perfect blend of rosemary, garlic, and butter. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and rosemary until well combined.
4. Rub the butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Teriyaki Crockpot Whole Chicken

Teriyaki Crockpot Whole Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this effortless recipe that yields a mouthwatering, glazed whole chicken with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy days or special occasions!

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your crockpot to low (6-8 hours) or high (3-4 hours).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
4. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the glaze over it.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Time: 3-8 hours

Serve with: Steamed vegetables, rice, or noodles to soak up that delicious glaze!

Mexican-Inspired Slow Cooker Chicken

Mexican-Inspired Slow Cooker Chicken
This flavorful dish combines the richness of slow-cooked chicken with the bold flavors of Mexico, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying tender and juicy chicken breasts smothered in a spicy tomato sauce.

Ingredients:

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
2. In a large slow cooker, combine the chicken, diced tomatoes with green chilies, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, scallions, or a sprinkle of queso fresco (optional).

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Herbed Lemon Butter Whole Chicken

Herbed Lemon Butter Whole Chicken
Moist and flavorful, this herbed lemon butter whole chicken recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon quarters and remaining herbs.
5. Rub the herbed butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Maple Dijon Crockpot Chicken

Maple Dijon Crockpot Chicken
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken recipes, this Maple Dijon Crockpot Chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the rich flavors of maple syrup and Dijon mustard, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the chicken in the crockpot and pour the maple-Dijon mixture over it.
4. Add chicken broth to the crockpot.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Greek-Style Slow Cooker Whole Chicken

Greek-Style Slow Cooker Whole Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic whole chicken dish inspired by Greek cuisine, cooked low and slow to tender perfection.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using).
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Smoky Paprika Crockpot Chicken

Smoky Paprika Crockpot Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of this slow-cooked chicken dish, infused with smoky paprika and tenderly cooked to perfection.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. In a crockpot, combine the chicken, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, and chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred with two forks.
5. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to combine with the juices.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Orange Ginger Whole Chicken

Orange Ginger Whole Chicken
Orange Ginger Whole Chicken Recipe

Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this Orange Ginger Whole Chicken recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner. This easy-to-make dish is infused with the warmth of ginger and the brightness of orange, making it a standout on any table.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup sliced fresh oranges
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, ground ginger, and brown sugar.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush the chicken evenly with the orange-ginger glaze, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour in the chicken broth, water, and sliced oranges.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Balsamic Glazed Slow Cooker Chicken

Balsamic Glazed Slow Cooker Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy slow cooker recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In the slow cooker, whisk together balsamic glaze, honey, and olive oil.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Add chicken to the slow cooker and coat with the balsamic mixture.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Serve: With your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Whole Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Whole Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this deliciously easy recipe that combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a stress-free dinner, this slow-cooked whole chicken is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In the crockpot, combine the garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
3. Place the chicken in the crockpot and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Coconut Curry Slow Cooker Chicken

Coconut Curry Slow Cooker Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of India with this comforting Coconut Curry Slow Cooker Chicken recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a slow cooker, combine chopped onions, minced garlic, ground cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the chicken and pour in coconut milk.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)

Lemon Garlic Herb Whole Chicken

Lemon Garlic Herb Whole Chicken
Impress your family and friends with this flavorful and aromatic whole chicken dish, perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Brown Sugar Bourbon Crockpot Chicken

Brown Sugar Bourbon Crockpot Chicken
Elevate your comfort food game with this mouthwatering slow-cooked dish, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey (or substitute with apple cider vinegar)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey (or apple cider vinegar), cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over both pieces.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)

Pesto-Stuffed Slow Cooker Chicken

Pesto-Stuffed Slow Cooker Chicken
Pesto-Stuffed Slow Cooker Chicken: A flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for a busy day!

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and mozzarella cheese.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff each breast with the pesto-mozzarella mixture, dividing it evenly between the two breasts.
4. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the chicken.
6. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Tips:

– You can also add some cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or onions to the slow cooker with the chicken for added flavor and nutrients.
– Serve with your favorite pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Herb-Roasted Crockpot Whole Chicken

Herb-Roasted Crockpot Whole Chicken
A flavorful and effortless way to cook a whole chicken, this recipe uses the power of your crockpot to infuse tender meat with aromatic herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Place the chicken in a crockpot and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Remove the chicken from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Summary

Looking for delicious and easy meals to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 mouthwatering crockpot whole chicken recipes that are sure to please. From classic flavors like garlic herb and lemon pepper, to more adventurous options like spicy Cajun and coconut curry, there’s something for every taste bud. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these slow-cooked chickens are perfect for a stress-free dinner solution. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and tangy or savory and spicy, these recipes will become your new go-to’s.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *