Instant Pot Whole Roast Chicken
This recipe creates a flavorful and juicy whole chicken using your Instant Pot. The cooking time is quick and allows you to prep other dishes while the chicken steams.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken, thawed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 lemon (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic (optional)
- Fresh herbs (optional: parsley, thyme, rosemary)
Cooking Guide:
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Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets from the cavity and discard or save for another use. Season the chicken generously inside and out with salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Sauté (Optional): While not necessary for a delicious chicken, this step adds a bit of browning to the skin. Heat olive oil on the Sauté function in your Instant Pot. Carefully place the chicken breast-side down and sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 1 minute.
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Pressure Cook: Pour in the chicken broth. Add the lemon and garlic cloves to the pot (if using). Place the trivet in the pot and arrange the chicken on top, breast-side up. Close the lid and ensure the pressure valve is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to Manual (High Pressure) for cook time. Here’s a guide:
- 4 pound chicken: 30 minutes
- 5 pound chicken: 35 minutes
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Natural Pressure Release: Once the cook time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking and keeps it moist. After 15 minutes, you can carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
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Rest and Carve: Carefully remove the chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
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Serve: Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides. You can also use the leftover pan drippings to make a simple gravy.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Stuff the lemon cavity with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary before placing it inside the chicken.
- Rotisserie Seasoning: Substitute the individual herbs with 1-2 tablespoons of rotisserie chicken seasoning for a quick flavor option.
- Sides: While the chicken cooks, you can prepare rice, potatoes, or vegetables in another pot or steamer.
- Leftovers: Leftover shredded chicken can be used in sandwiches, salads, or chicken pot pie. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy your delicious and juicy Instant Pot Whole Roast Chicken!