instant pot whole chicken recipe
- The Best instant pot whole chicken recipe
- Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce
The Best instant pot whole chicken recipe
This recipe is perfect for so many reasons. It’s easy to prep ahead—you can marinate the whole chicken in the fridge overnight, and the pressure cooker takes care of the rest while you’re working on something else. It’s also a great way to use up any herbs or spices you have on hand, whether it’s fresh rosemary, thyme, or even just a sprinkle of paprika. And because it’s a whole bird, you get all the meat—no waste, no leftovers that end up forgotten in the fridge. My family loves it for everyday meals, but it’s also a hit when we’re hosting guests, especially since it serves six or eight without feeling like a lot of work. Plus, the health benefits are solid. The Instant Pot keeps the chicken moist without needing extra oil, and the herbs and spices add flavor without the added sodium. It’s a balanced meal—lean protein, fiber-rich veggies if you add them, and a whole chicken that’s packed with nutrients. No one has to feel guilty about eating it, and it’s always a hit with everyone, kids included.
Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce
A flavorful and easy whole chicken recipe cooked in the Instant Pot, infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, perfect for a comforting meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat Instant Pot by placing the trivet at the bottom. Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. -
2
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it coats evenly. -
3
Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast-side up. Add chicken broth and chicken stock around the chicken. -
4
Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 60 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. -
5
While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, heat garlic over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes, parsley, thyme, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 2 minutes. -
6
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the Instant Pot. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then shred or slice the meat. Discard any bones and skin if desired. -
7
Pour the sauce into a saucepan and heat through. Pour the sauce over the shredded chicken and mix well. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
🔧Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Serving dishes
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a sprig of rosemary to the Instant Pot with the chicken.
- To make it lighter, use chicken broth instead of heavy cream and consider adding a splash of low-sodium soy sauce.
- This recipe can be adjusted for dietary preferences by substituting ingredients like using vegetable broth or coconut milk.
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce
What is the best way to prepare a whole chicken for the Instant Pot?
The best way to prepare a whole chicken for the Instant Pot is to pat it dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices (like garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary). You can also marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for extra flavor before cooking.
How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in an Instant Pot?
A whole chicken typically cooks in about 60-75 minutes in the Instant Pot, depending on the size and your specific settings. For an average 3-4 lb chicken, set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 60 minutes, then allow for a natural release (about 10-15 minutes) before opening.
What pressure setting should I use for cooking a whole chicken?
Use High Pressure for cooking a whole chicken in the Instant Pot. This setting ensures the chicken cooks evenly and tenderizes it properly. Always check the Instant Pot manual for your specific model’s guidelines, as some may require slightly different settings.
Can I use a bone-in or boneless chicken for this recipe?
You can use either bone-in or boneless chicken, but bone-in versions tend to be more flavorful and juicier due to the fat and connective tissue. If using a boneless chicken, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as it cooks faster. A general guideline is to aim for 5-10 minutes less than a bone-in chicken.
What are some great side dishes to serve with an Instant Pot whole chicken?
Some delicious side dishes pair perfectly with an Instant Pot whole chicken:
– Creamy mashed potatoes
– Roasted garlic green beans
– Honey-glazed carrots
– Buttery corn
– Simple sautéed vegetables (like zucchini or bell peppers)
– Instant Pot biscuits or cornbread
– A fresh salad with a tangy dressing
