Whole Chicken Instant Pot Recipe: Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy!
Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook a whole chicken? Look no further! This Instant Pot whole chicken recipe will become your new go-to for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It produces incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken every single time, with minimal effort. Say goodbye to dry, overcooked chicken breasts!
Why Use an Instant Pot for Whole Chicken?
The Instant Pot offers a revolutionary way to cook a whole chicken. Unlike traditional roasting, which can take hours, the Instant Pot cooks a whole chicken perfectly in a fraction of the time. This method results in:
- Faster cooking time: Enjoy a delicious, fully cooked chicken in under an hour!
- Juicy and tender meat: The Instant Pot's pressure cooking method locks in moisture, ensuring incredibly tender and juicy meat.
- Easy cleanup: Minimal cleanup is required, as everything cooks in one pot.
- Flavorful results: The Instant Pot allows for incredible flavor infusion, resulting in a flavorful chicken you'll crave.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- One (3-4 pound) whole chicken: Make sure to remove the giblets from the cavity.
- 1 cup of water: This creates the necessary liquid for pressure cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the chicken (optional).
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1 onion, quartered: Adds depth of flavor to the broth.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Contributes sweetness and color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds subtle flavor and texture.
- Fresh herbs (optional): Rosemary, thyme, or sage add a delicious aromatic touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry. Season generously with salt and pepper, inside and out. You can also add herbs under the skin for extra flavor.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional): If you want to enhance the browning and flavor, you can sear the chicken in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add olive oil and brown the chicken on all sides before adding the remaining ingredients. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- Add Aromatics: Place the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and celery stalks in the bottom of the Instant Pot.
- Add Water and Chicken: Pour one cup of water into the Instant Pot. Carefully place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes for a 3-4 pound chicken. Adjust cooking time based on the weight of your chicken – add 5 minutes for every additional pound.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking gently and stay extra juicy.
- Quick Release (Optional): After the natural pressure release, you can carefully perform a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Remove and Rest: Carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Instant Pot whole chicken with your favorite sides. Some delicious options include:
- Roasted vegetables: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, asparagus.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting.
- Gravy: Made from the flavorful pan drippings.
- Rice: A simple and versatile side dish.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Whole Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space for the chicken to cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
- Save the broth: The broth leftover in the Instant Pot is incredibly flavorful and can be used for soup, gravy, or other dishes.
This Instant Pot whole chicken recipe is a guaranteed winner. Enjoy the delicious and easy meal! Remember to share your culinary creations with us using #InstantPotChicken. Happy cooking!
