How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the Crock Pot

This recipe is an absolute staple in my household. Not only is the meat a part of my daily diet, the broth is the base of all my soups! We got a two-for-one special today!

If you’ve never purchased a whole chicken before, fear not! Here are a few reasons why you should definitely buy whole chickens:

1. They’re cheaper. Even at Whole Foods, I can get an organic whole chicken for $15-20 (depending on the size). That’ll last me at least 7-8 meals. But when I spend the same amount on organic chicken breast, it’ll only last me 3-4 meals. I’m all for saving money.
2. Most whole chickens will come with giblets inside. The first time I ever reached into the chicken and pulled out a bag of giblets, I had no idea what it was, let alone what to do with it. But guess what, you can save those giblets for making bone broth! I have 6 or 7 bags in my freezer right now, ready for my next batch!
3. Speaking of bone broth, you can save the bones after you cook the chicken to make some! Once the chicken is cooked, I take off the meat and throw the bones back in with the liquid and veggies, add a bit more filtered water and some ACV, and boom! 10-12 hours later, you have bone broth. Cartons of bone broth at the store usually run $6-10 and they’re not nearly as good. So not only are you getting double the quantity of meat for the same price, you’re also getting fresh bone broth for free!

If that hasn’t convinced you to try this recipe, maybe the crock pot will. If you aren’t a fan of crock pots, please leave this blog. If you’ve never used a crock pot, where is this rock you’ve been living under? And can we send Donald Trump there? If you already love crock pots, we’re about to become best friends. Please. Any takers?

Anyways, this chicken is the star of my chicken turmeric curry soup and I highly recommend it on my winter kale salad. It’s also good to keep on hand for a quick meal, especially if you’re doing the whole30.

Once you finish making bone broth, as I know you money savvy health nuts will, eat the veggies. Those are by far the best carrots and celery you’ll ever have in your life. Once you’ve done that, you can start making soups! I highly recommend using homemade broth in my Roasted Carrot Ginger Soup and my Butternut Squash Soup. Let me know what other recipes you try!