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December 10, 2024
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to cook a whole chicken, look no further than the Instant Pot. This popular kitchen appliance can cook a chicken to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven or stovetop. Whether you’re pressed for time or just want a hassle-free meal, the Instant Pot is your answer.
Why cook a whole chicken in the Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a versatile appliance that can be used to cook a wide range of meals, but it really shines when it comes to cooking a whole chicken. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender, while the high heat and sealed lid help to lock in flavor. Plus, the Instant Pot cooks the chicken much faster than traditional cooking methods, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
“With the Instant Pot, you can have a perfectly cooked whole chicken on the table in under an hour.”
How to cook a whole chicken in the Instant Pot:
Cooking a whole chicken in the Instant Pot is simple and straightforward. Start by seasoning the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices. Then, place the chicken on the trivet that came with your Instant Pot, and add some liquid to the bottom of the pot, such as chicken broth or water. Close the lid, set the cooking time, and let the Instant Pot work its magic.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure using the quick release valve. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F. If it needs more time, you can return it to the Instant Pot for a few more minutes of cooking. Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before carving and serving.
Preparation for cooking a whole chicken in the insta pot
Step 1: Gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. You will need a whole chicken, seasonings of your choice, such as salt, pepper, and herbs, and an insta pot.
Step 2: Prepare the chicken by removing any giblets or organs that may be inside the cavity. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
Step 3: Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or seasonings you prefer. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
Step 4: Preheat your insta pot by selecting the “Saute” function and adjusting the heat to medium. Add a drizzle of oil to the pot and sear the chicken on all sides until it is browned and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step will help seal in the juices and enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Step 5: Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Pour in a cup of chicken broth or water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will prevent any burnt pieces from sticking to the chicken during pressure cooking.
Step 6: Place the trivet or a steamer basket into the pot and carefully place the chicken on top. Close the lid, ensuring it is properly sealed, and select the “Pressure Cook” function. Set the cooking time according to the weight and size of the chicken, typically around 25 minutes for a 4-pound chicken.
Step 7: Allow the insta pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10-15 minutes after the cooking time is complete. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before carving and serving.
Note: The cooking times may vary depending on the make and model of your insta pot, so it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
Gathering the ingredients
Before you start cooking a whole chicken in the instapot, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a flavorful and delicious result. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:
1. Whole chicken
Choose a fresh or frozen whole chicken, preferably organic for the best taste and quality. Make sure the chicken is properly thawed if using frozen.
2. Seasonings
The key to a flavorful chicken is using the right blend of seasonings. You’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning according to your taste preferences.
3. Cooking liquid
To ensure the chicken cooks properly and remains moist, you’ll need a cooking liquid. You can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. Approximately 1 cup of liquid should be sufficient.
4. Optional ingredients
Depending on your personal preference, you can also gather some optional ingredients to add extra flavor to your chicken. Some suggestions include:
- Lemon slices
- Onion slices
- Garlic cloves
- Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
These ingredients can be placed inside the chicken cavity or added to the cooking liquid.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to move on to the next steps in cooking your whole chicken in the instapot!
Cleaning and seasoning the chicken
Before cooking a whole chicken in the Insta Pot, it is important to properly clean and season the chicken to enhance its flavor. Follow these steps to clean and season the chicken:
| Step 1: | Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity and discard them. |
| Step 2: | Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to rinse off any visible dirt or debris. |
| Step 3: | Season the chicken with your desired spices and herbs. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. |
| Step 4: | Mix the seasonings together in a small bowl and rub the mixture over the entire chicken, covering it evenly. Be sure to rub the seasoning inside the cavity as well. |
| Step 5: | Allow the chicken to sit and marinate for at least 15 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. |
Once the chicken has been properly cleaned and seasoned, it is ready to be cooked in the Insta Pot. Following these steps will ensure a juicy and flavorful whole chicken that is perfect for any meal.
Preparing the insta pot
Before you start cooking the whole chicken in your insta pot, it’s important to prepare the pot properly. Follow these steps to ensure a successful cooking process:
- Clean the insta pot: Make sure the insta pot is clean by washing it with mild dish soap and warm water. Rinse and dry it thoroughly before proceeding.
- Insert the trivet: Place the trivet into the insta pot. The trivet will help lift the chicken off the bottom of the pot and prevent it from sticking.
- Add liquid: Pour in chicken broth, water, or any other cooking liquid of your choice into the insta pot. This will help create steam and keep the chicken moist during cooking.
- Season the chicken: Season the whole chicken with your favorite herbs, spices, and salt. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, making sure to get it in all the nooks and crannies.
- Place the chicken in the insta pot: Carefully place the seasoned chicken onto the trivet in the insta pot.
Once you have prepared the insta pot, you are ready to start cooking the whole chicken to perfection!
Cooking the chicken in the Instant Pot
To cook a whole chicken in the Instant Pot, follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions:
1. Preparing the chicken:
– Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
– Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
2. Browning the chicken:
– Select the “Sauté” function on the Instant Pot and set it to high heat.
– Add the olive oil to the pot and let it heat up for a minute.
– Place the chicken in the pot, breast-side down, and let it brown for 5-6 minutes, or until golden.
– Flip the chicken using tongs and brown the other side for an additional 5-6 minutes.
3. Cooking the chicken:
– Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
– Pour the chicken broth or water into the pot and scrape the bottom to remove any browned bits.
– Place a trivet or a steamer basket into the pot and place the chicken on top.
– Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” on high for 25 minutes.
– Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then use the quick release to release any remaining pressure.
4. Serving the chicken:
– Carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
– Serve the chicken with your preferred side dishes and enjoy!
Note: The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F before serving.
Q&A
How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in the instant pot?
The cooking time for a whole chicken in the instant pot depends on its weight. As a general guideline, you can cook a whole chicken in the instant pot for about 6-8 minutes per pound. So if you have a 4-pound chicken, it will take approximately 24-32 minutes to cook. However, it’s important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the size and thickness of the chicken. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the time it takes for the instant pot to come to pressure and release the pressure naturally.
Can I cook a frozen whole chicken in the instant pot?
Yes, you can cook a frozen whole chicken in the instant pot. However, it’s important to note that the cooking time will be longer compared to a thawed chicken. As a general guideline, you can increase the cooking time by about 50% when cooking a frozen chicken in the instant pot. For example, if a thawed chicken takes 30 minutes to cook, a frozen chicken of the same weight will take approximately 45 minutes. It’s also recommended to add an extra cup of liquid to the instant pot when cooking a frozen chicken.