This unique twist on a classic slow cooker whole chicken recipe uses citrus and fresh rosemary for an aromatic and flavorful midweek dinner. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and stuffed with lemon, orange, and herbs for a fragrant, juicy meal.

Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 pounds whole chicken (1 kg), cleaned and giblets removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
Herb Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Stuffers:
- 1 small lemon, halved
- 1 small orange, halved
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Coat it with olive oil, ensuring it’s well covered.
- Make the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix all the herb seasoning ingredients. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
- Stuff the Chicken: Stuff the cavity with the halved lemon, orange, rosemary, thyme, and garlic cloves.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned and stuffed chicken breast-side up in your slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3.5–4 hours (or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
- Optional Step for Crispy Skin: If you prefer crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 5–10 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Citrus Substitutes: If you don’t have lemon or orange, use lime or grapefruit for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Variations: Swap rosemary and thyme for sage or parsley if desired.
- Slow Cooker Size: A 4-quart/3.5-liter slow cooker works for a 2-pound chicken. Adjust cooking time for larger chickens.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.