How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the Instant Pot
Try this recipe for cooking a whole chicken in the Instant Pot, or contribute your own.
Try this recipe for cooking a whole chicken in the Instant Pot, or contribute your own.
- Carbohydrate 102.870205725 g
- Cholesterol 73.08 mg
- Fat 20.33327875 g
- Fiber 14.5976676554108 g
- Protein 20.834097475 g
- Saturated Fat 11.84874985 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (908g)
- Sodium 1028.16437 mg
- Sugar 88.2725380695892 g
- Trans Fat 1.50240155 g
- Calories 634 calories
Step-by-step
- Prepare your chicken. Remove innards and season with your favorite seasonings. I like to use sea salt, pepper, thyme, sage, and rosemary. I liberally sprinkle and rub it all into every crevice.
- Stuff your chicken. Adding things to the inside of your chicken is going to help it retain moisture. I usually stuff mine with a half an apple, half an onion, a lemon cut in two and squeezed, and crushed garlic.
- Add 1/2 cup of broth to your Instant Pot Pressure Cooker.
- Place the trivet inside of the pot and set the chicken on top.
- Put the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the valve is in the SEALING position.
- Using the display panel select the MANUAL/PRESSURE COOK function. Make sure the pot is on HIGH pressure and use the +/- buttons to select 24 minutes.
- When the time is up let the pot naturally release the pressure, about 30 minutes.
- Your chicken should read a perfect 165F. You can place it underneath the broiler to crisp up the skin. Enjoy!
The Instant Pot Whole Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknight dinners often feel like a race against the clock, a frantic scramble to get something nutritious and delicious on the table before bedtime. That’s why I’ve become obsessed with my Instant Pot. It's a lifesaver, a culinary superhero that’s transformed the way I approach weeknight cooking. And nothing showcases its magic quite like a perfectly cooked whole chicken.
Forget the hours of roasting in the oven! This Instant Pot method delivers juicy, tender chicken in a fraction of the time. The result? A flavorful, fall-apart chicken that’s ready to grace your table with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. Seriously, it's so easy, even my kids could (almost) do it!
Why this recipe works: The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function locks in moisture, resulting in a supremely succulent chicken. The added aromatics – apple, onion, lemon, and garlic – infuse the meat with incredible flavor. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! Most of the cooking happens inside the pot, so there's minimal mess to contend with. This means more time spent with my family and less time scrubbing pots and pans. That’s a win-win in my book.
Beyond the basics: This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices. A blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds a beautiful smoky depth. Or, for a more Mediterranean twist, try oregano, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil before cooking. You can also substitute the apple and onion for other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes. The possibilities are endless!
Serving suggestions: The cooked chicken is incredibly versatile. Shred it for tacos, salads, or sandwiches. Slice it for a classic chicken dinner with roasted vegetables. Or, simply serve it whole, letting everyone carve their own portions. The leftover broth from the Instant Pot is also fantastic for making soup or gravy.
Making this recipe a family affair: I often involve my kids in the process. Older children can help with washing and prepping the vegetables, while even younger ones can sprinkle the herbs and spices (with supervision, of course!). Cooking together is a fantastic way to bond and share the joy of creating a delicious meal as a family. It's become one of our favorite weeknight rituals.
More than just dinner: This Instant Pot chicken is not just a quick and easy meal; it’s a time-saver that allows me to enjoy more quality time with my family. It frees up precious evenings to focus on what truly matters – laughter, conversation, and creating lasting memories. So, ditch the complicated recipes and embrace the simplicity of this Instant Pot chicken. It’s the perfect weeknight solution for a busy family.
A final thought: Cooking shouldn’t be a chore; it should be a source of joy and nourishment. This recipe embodies that philosophy – simple, delicious, and perfect for busy lives. Give it a try and see the difference it makes!
