insta pot whole chicken recipe

The Best insta pot whole chicken recipe

This recipe for an Insta Pot whole chicken is one of those things that feels like a total game-changer in my kitchen. You know how sometimes you’re just too tired to deal with a whole roasted chicken—too much fuss with trussing, basting, and worrying about it burning? No more. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting for you, and the result is juicy, flavorful meat that falls apart at the touch of a fork. My kids swear by it—they love how easy it is to pull out a perfectly cooked bird, and honestly, it’s one of the few meals they’ll actually eat that isn’t some sad, sad takeout take. Plus, it’s not just quick, it’s simple, and the whole family can get involved if they want to. You can even let the kids help with the seasoning or the cleanup afterward—it’s a win all around.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s not just dinner—it’s a meal that can be made ahead and reheated, or turned into sandwiches, tacos, or even a hearty soup if you’re feeling lazy. The Instant Pot keeps all the moisture locked in, so the chicken stays tender and packed with flavor, and the whole family will be begging for seconds. I’ve used it for Sunday dinners, for quick weeknight meals, and even for a special occasion when we wanted something impressive but didn’t have time to fuss. And the health benefits? Well, a whole chicken is a great source of lean protein, and the Instant Pot keeps it juicy without all the extra fat from frying. Plus, you can easily add veggies or herbs to boost the nutrition without sacrificing taste. It’s the kind of meal that makes life easier without making you feel guilty.

Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce

4.9 from 1087 votes

A flavorful, one-pot meal featuring a tender whole chicken cooked with aromatic garlic, herbs, and a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ cup chicken stock (optional, for depth)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat Instant Pot by placing the trivet at the bottom and adding 1 cup of water. Set to ‘Sauté’ mode, then add olive oil. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
2. 2 Place the whole chicken on the trivet. Season all over with salt, pepper, paprika, chopped rosemary, and thyme.
3. 3 Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. 4 Close the lid, set to ‘High Pressure’ for 25 minutes. Allow for a natural release (20 mins), then quick-release the remaining pressure.
5. 5 Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes. Pour the sauce into a saucepan, simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in heavy cream (or coconut milk). Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. 6 Slice the chicken and serve with the warm sauce over rice or roasted vegetables.
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🔧Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 14❤️Cholesterol: 250🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 12🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 4🥩Protein: 50

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine while cooking. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Insta-Pot whole chicken recipe is a lifesaver for any busy weeknight or family gathering because it’s foolproof—no stress, just flavorful, tender meat that falls apart easily. It’s perfect for potlucks or holidays because you can prep it ahead and let everyone else focus on the fun part, while you’re left with a meal that’s always a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, the crispy skin and juicy meat make it a crowd-pleaser that won’t leave anyone wanting more.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Garlic Herb Sauce

What is the best way to season a whole chicken for the Instant Pot?

For the best flavor, season your whole chicken generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and any other herbs or spices you prefer (like rosemary, thyme, or sage). Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken before placing it in the Instant Pot to ensure even coating.

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How long should I cook a whole chicken in the Instant Pot, and what pressure setting should I use?

For a whole chicken (about 4–6 lbs), cook on High Pressure for 60–75 minutes. If your chicken is larger (7+ lbs), increase the time to 75–90 minutes. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh or breast.

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Can I use bone-in or boneless chicken for this recipe, and does it affect the cooking time?

Yes, you can use either bone-in or boneless chicken. Bone-in chicken takes slightly longer to cook (about 10–15 minutes extra) because the bones retain heat, but it’s more flavorful. If using boneless, reduce pressure time by 5–10 minutes (but still check the internal temp to safety).

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