This Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. In just over an hour, you can create a succulent, tender chicken that practically falls off the bone. The convenience of the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in a dish that is both juicy and savory. With a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that your entire family will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe for its incredible flavor and unmatched ease of cooking. The pressure cooking method ensures the meat is juicy and tender, while the crisp skin can easily be achieved with a quick broil at the end. This recipe is perfect for busy lifestyles, enabling you to prep a complete meal in under 90 minutes. Plus, it fits perfectly into a variety of diets, including gluten-free and paleo, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal planning.
Tips and Tricks
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A good rub of herbs and spices both inside and outside the chicken will enhance the flavor immensely.
- Use a Trivet: Elevate the chicken with a trivet to prevent it from sitting in its juices, allowing for better cooking and crispier skin.
- Natural Release: For the juiciest chicken, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes before switching to quick release. This helps retain moisture.
- Sear First: If you have time, sear the chicken on the sauté function before pressure cooking for an added layer of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Ensure you don’t exceed the recommended cooking time; otherwise, the chicken may become dry. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Skipping the Trivet: Cooking the chicken directly in the pot can lead to uneven cooking and soggy skin. Always use a trivet or a steaming basket.
- Inadequate Seasoning: A bland chicken can result from insufficient seasoning. Make sure to season both inside and out.
- Not Allowing for Natural Release: Rushing the pressure release can dry out the meat. Patience is key for juicy results.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep your whole chicken by seasoning it and leaving it to marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This will enhance the flavors significantly. If you have leftover chicken, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can shred the chicken and freeze it for up to 3 months, making it perfect for quick meals later on.
Recipe Variations
- Herb Variations: Swap out rosemary and thyme for your favorite herbs, like oregano or basil.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy version.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the seasoning for a zesty twist.
- Cooking Method: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 375°F for about 1.5 hours.
How to Serve
Serve the whole chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Don’t forget to drizzle the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or thyme before serving.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing iced tea. Complement your meal with sides like garlic green beans or a simple garden salad. For dessert, a light fruit tart or sorbet would make a delightful finish.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, shred the chicken and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
- Trivet
- Meat thermometer (optional, but highly recommended)
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free option, ensure that any seasoning blends do not contain dairy. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if using pre-packaged seasonings. If you need a nut-free version, simply avoid any nut-based thickeners in your sauces.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, add fresh herbs like dill or basil to your seasoning mix. In fall and winter, consider using warming spices such as paprika or cinnamon to enhance the cozy flavors of your dish.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost for this whole chicken recipe is around $10, serving approximately 4 people. Opting for a smaller chicken can save you money while still delivering a delicious meal. Buying in bulk or choosing store brands can also reduce costs.
Kitchen Hacks
- Peeling Garlic: Smash the garlic clove with the flat side of your knife to make peeling easier and faster.
- Chopping Herbs: Use kitchen scissors to quickly chop fresh herbs directly into your seasoning mix.
- Speedy Cleanup: Line your Instant Pot with parchment paper to make cleaning up easier after cooking.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken?: Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.
- What if my chicken is too big?: Make sure it fits comfortably in the pot. If it doesn’t, you may need to cut it into pieces.
- How do I know when it’s done?: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Instant Pot Whole Chicken
This Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. In just over an hour, you can create a succulent, tender chicken that practically falls off the bone.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and rosemary to create a seasoning rub.
- Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
- Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and pour in the chicken broth.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken on top of the trivet.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then switch to quick release.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and place it on a baking sheet.
- Optional: Broil the chicken in the oven for 5-10 minutes to crisp the skin.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 432Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 133mgSodium 1942mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 42g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe is not only a delicious and satisfying meal but also a quick and easy solution for busy cooks. The flavors are rich, the meat is tender, and the skin is perfectly crispy — all achievable in a fraction of the time it would normally take. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!
