If you’re looking for a comforting, foolproof dish that’s both juicy and packed with flavor, this Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or weekend centerpiece, delivering tender meat and vibrant seasonings without hours of fuss. The magic lies in using the Instant Pot to lock in moisture and infuse the chicken with herbs and spices, turning a simple whole bird into something irresistibly delicious every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to this recipe’s success. Each one is simple yet essential, working together to create the perfect balance of savory, aromatic, and just a hint of brightness.
- Whole chicken (about 4 lbs): The star of the show, providing juicy, tender meat that serves the whole family.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the seasoning stick and contributes to a silky texture on the skin.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and aids in tenderizing the meat.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a mild, warming heat that complements the herbs.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the chicken with a deep, savory aroma.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle sweetness and depth without overpowering.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a smoky warmth and beautiful color to the skin.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Offers an earthy, herbal note that pairs perfectly with poultry.
- Dried rosemary (1/2 teaspoon): A fragrant addition that lifts the flavor profile.
- Lemon (1, halved): Inserted inside the cavity, this brightens and tenderizes from within.
- Garlic cloves (4, smashed): Release intense, aromatic flavor while steaming with the chicken.
- Chicken broth or water (1 cup): Keeps the environment moist inside the pot for juicy results.
- Onion (1, quartered): Adds natural sweetness and acts as a flavorful bed for the chicken.
How to Make Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting your whole chicken dry with paper towels—this ensures the skin will be as crisp as possible later on. Mix all the dry seasonings in a small bowl. Rub the olive oil thoroughly over the chicken, then generously sprinkle the spice mixture, making sure to cover every part, including the cavity.
Step 2: Stuff the Cavity
Place the halved lemon, smashed garlic cloves, and a few pieces of the quartered onion inside the chicken’s cavity. This infuses the meat from within during cooking, delivering a fragrant burst of flavor with every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Instant Pot
Put the remaining onion quarters at the bottom of your Instant Pot, then pour in the chicken broth or water. Position the metal trivet inside the pot and carefully place your stuffed chicken breast-side down on it. This setup allows steam to circulate properly and keeps the chicken out of the liquid while cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Seal the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 24 minutes. That timing is calculated at 6 minutes per pound, perfect for a 4-pound bird. After cooking, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 15 minutes—this resting period helps keep the meat extra juicy—then manually release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Rest and Optional Crisping
Carefully remove the chicken and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving to redistribute the juices. For an irresistibly crispy skin, pop the chicken under a broiler for 5 to 7 minutes. This final step is optional but highly recommended for that golden finish.
How to Serve Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled over the carved meat instantly elevate the dish with a pop of color and brightness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving enhances all those lovely flavors.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a lighter option. The pan juices can be spooned over side dishes for added moisture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the carved chicken on a rustic wooden board surrounded by lemon wedges and herb sprigs for a warm, inviting centerpiece. For a casual meal, pile the meat on buttery dinner rolls with a smear of mayonnaise and crisp lettuce for an unforgettable sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken with some of its cooking juices helps maintain moisture and flavor upon reheating.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, shredded or carved chicken freezes beautifully. Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible, and use within 3 months for the best taste.
Reheating
Warm leftover chicken gently in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave with a splash of broth to prevent drying out. Quick stovetop reheating in a covered skillet also works well, especially when adding it back to prepared dishes.
FAQs
Can I use a frozen whole chicken for this Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipe?
While you can technically cook a frozen chicken in the Instant Pot, it’s best to thaw it beforehand for even seasoning and ideal results. Seasoning won’t stick well to frozen meat, and cooking times will need adjustment.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The Instant Pot cooking time ensures the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. However, double-check with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh—it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
Can I add vegetables to cook alongside the chicken?
Absolutely! Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips can be placed at the bottom of the pot with the broth. They’ll cook in the flavorful steam and make for a convenient one-pot meal.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
Water works perfectly fine if you don’t have broth on hand. The seasoning on the chicken brings plenty of flavor, so don’t worry if broth isn’t available.
How can I make the skin extra crispy without broiling?
While broiling is the easiest way to crisp the skin, you can also finish the chicken in a hot oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes. Just be sure to watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a whole chicken cooked to juicy perfection, and this Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipe delivers it with effortless ease. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a tasty, no-fuss meal, this recipe will quickly become a go-to. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love how simple cooking chicken can be when the flavors and timing are just right!
Print
Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare a tender, juicy chicken with perfectly seasoned skin. Utilizing the pressure cooking method drastically reduces the cooking time while retaining moisture and enhancing the natural flavors. The chicken is infused with aromatic herbs and spices, lemon, and garlic, making it an effortless yet impressive main course suitable for any weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Stuffing and Broth
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 4 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well and to help crisp the skin later. This step is essential for optimal flavor and texture.
- Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. This blend creates a fragrant and savory crust for the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil evenly over the entire chicken to help the seasoning stick and promote browning. Then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, covering all sides and inside the cavity thoroughly.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place the halved lemon, smashed garlic cloves, and a few onion pieces inside the chicken’s cavity. This adds aromatic flavor from the inside while cooking.
- Prepare Instant Pot: Place the remaining onion quarters at the bottom of the Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of chicken broth or water to generate steam for pressure cooking.
- Position the Chicken: Place the metal trivet inside the pot and position the chicken breast-side down on top of the trivet. This keeps the chicken out of the liquid and helps it cook evenly.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and ensure the steam valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 24 minutes, which corresponds to 6 minutes per pound for a 4 lb chicken.
- Release Pressure: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes to let the juices redistribute, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually before opening the lid.
- Rest and Optional Broil: Remove the chicken carefully and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving to lock in juices. For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken in the oven for 5–7 minutes just before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, place the cooked chicken under a broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking.
- You can add root vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the pot to create a complete one-pot meal.
- Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking for even results.
- Adjust cooking time slightly if your chicken is larger or smaller than 4 lbs, using 6 minutes per pound as a guideline.
