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How Long to Cook Whole Chicken in Slow Cooker

Time, temperature, and tips for perfect results every time.

Slow Cooker

Whole Chicken

Cook Time

360-480 min

Set Slow Cooker To

low

cooking temperature

Safe Internal Temp

165°F

74°C · USDA FSIS

Cooking Tips

  • Place on a bed of vegetables to elevate the chicken
  • No liquid needed as the chicken releases its own juices
  • Skin will not be crispy in a slow cooker

Kitchen Timer

180:00

180 min preset

min
:
sec

Adjust for Weight

64oz
48 oz112 oz

Adjusted cooking time

360-480 min

Temperature Options

TemperatureTimeNotes
low(recommended)360-480 min6-8 hours on low, incredibly tender
high240-300 min4-5 hours on high

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to cook Whole Chicken in Slow Cooker?

Whole Chicken takes 360-480 minutes in Slow Cooker at low. Verify internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer.

What temperature to slow cooker Whole Chicken?

The recommended temperature for Whole Chicken in Slow Cooker is low. 6-8 hours on low, incredibly tender

Should I cover Whole Chicken when slow cookering?

It is generally not necessary to flip Whole Chicken during this cooking method. Check your specific recipe for guidance.

Can I cook frozen Whole Chicken in Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can cook frozen Whole Chicken in Slow Cooker. Add approximately 50% more time (540-720 minutes). Always verify internal temperature before serving.

Do I need to preheat Slow Cooker for Whole Chicken?

Preheating is optional for this method but can improve results. Most recipes benefit from starting with a heated cooking surface.