Description

This Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe uses the “Zero-Minute” cooking method, resulting in perfectly tender and juicy chicken with minimal effort. The cooking process leverages the pressure building and release phases of the Instant Pot to cook the chicken gently, making both the dark and white meat equally moist and flavorful. It’s quick, easy, and yields a delicious roast-style chicken every time!

Ingredients

8 cups cold water
5 teaspoons fine sea salt
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot:
Add the water, salt, bay leaves, oregano, rosemary, and thyme to the Instant Pot. Stir to dissolve the salt.

2. Submerge the Chicken:
Carefully place the whole chicken into the Instant Pot, breast side up. Ensure the chicken is at least 90% submerged in the liquid.

3. Cook the Chicken:
Close the lid, set the venting knob to the sealing position, and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 0 minutes.

4. Natural Release:
Let the pressure naturally release for 20-22 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook gently.

5. Check for Doneness:
After the release, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches at least 161°F (72°C).

6. Optional Step for Crispy Skin:
For a crispy skin, brush the chicken with butter and soy sauce, then broil for a few minutes in the oven until golden brown.

7. Serve:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Flavor Boost: Add a few garlic cloves or lemon wedges inside the chicken for extra flavor.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs such as sage or thyme for a fresh taste.
Crispy Skin: Broil the chicken after cooking for a crispy, golden skin.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-32 minutes (including pressure time)
Category: Main Course
Method: Instant Pot, Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: American