Name: Instant Pot Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken; 1 Large Onion; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; salt and pepper; 1 handful fresh herbs; For Gravy:; chicken broth; 2 tbsp flour; 2 tbsp water

This Instant Pot Chicken Delight is a true delight for chicken lovers. It's a simple and quick recipe that uses a whole chicken and a few other ingredients to create a savory dish that's both comforting and satisfying. The best part is that it's all made in an Instant Pot, which cuts down on cooking time and ensures a perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Photos of Instant Pot Chicken Recipe

The ingredient list for this recipe is pretty straightforward, with most items being accessible in any grocery store. The whole chicken is the star of the recipe, so opt for a high-quality, organic chicken if your budget allows. Fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley would add extra flavor, but dried herbs will work fine too. The chicken broth can be store-bought or homemade.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Delight

Whole chicken: The backbone of the dish, providing meat and flavor.

Onion: Adds a depth of flavor to the broth and chicken.

Chicken broth: Used for adding moisture and flavor.

Olive oil: Helps to crisp up the skin and add richness.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the chicken's natural flavor.

Fresh herbs: Takes the flavor profile up a notch. Pick ones you love.

Flour: Helps to thicken the gravy.

Water: Needed to create the gravy.

One reader, Ernest Cartwright says:

This instant pot chicken delight is a game-changer! The chicken turns out incredibly tender and flavorful, and the gravy is the perfect finishing touch. It's so easy to make, and the whole family loves it. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a winner!

Ernest Cartwright

Techniques Required

How to prepare the chicken: Rub the chicken with olive oil and season it with salt, pepper, and any desired chicken seasoning.

How to cook under pressure: Select manual/high pressure and set the Instant Pot to 25 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.

How to natural release: Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release for 20 minutes, then turn the valve to release any remaining pressure.

How to make gravy: Remove the onions and herbs from the broth in the bottom of the pot. Turn the Instant Pot onto sauté and allow it to come to a rolling boil. Make a slurry of equal parts flour and water, then add it a little at a time while whisking until the desired thickness is reached.

How To Make Instant Pot Chicken

This instant pot chicken is cooked with onions and a handful of herbs, broiled for a crispy skin, and paired with creamy gravy.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1whole chicken
1large onion
1cupchicken broth
2tbspolive oil
salt and pepper,to taste
1handfulfresh herbs,such as parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage, optional

For Gravy:

chicken broth,from reduction
2tbspflour,or cornstarch
2tbspwater

Instructions

Place the trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot. Slice onion ½-thick and place on the trivet. Add broth.
Rub chicken with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and chicken seasoning if desired. Place chicken on top of onions and add herbs to the instant pot.
Select Manual/High Pressure and turn it to 25 minutes. The Instant Pot will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure.
Allow to natural release for 20 minutes. Turn valve to release remaining pressure.
To crisp the skin, once pressure is released, open the lid and place the chicken on a small pan. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes or until skin is golden.

Gravy:

Remove onions and herbs from the broth in the bottom of the pan. Add additional chicken broth if desired.
Turn Instant Pot onto sautee and allow to come to a rolling boil. Make a slurry of equal parts flour (or cornstarch) and water. Start with 2 tablespoons of each.
Add a little at a time while whisking until desired thickness is reached.

Nutrition

Calories: 789.36kcal
Fat: 53.78g
Saturated Fat: 14.36g
Trans Fat: 0.29g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.50g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.74g
Carbohydrates: 12.47g
Fiber: 1.12g
Sugar: 3.89g
Protein: 60.42g
Cholesterol: 229.30mg
Sodium: 1167.77mg
Calcium: 55.40mg
Potassium: 803.84mg
Iron: 3.41mg
Vitamin A: 132.67µg
Vitamin C: 10.36mg

Technique Tip for Instant Pot Chicken Delight

To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. This will ensure your chicken is cooked to the correct temperature and is safe to eat, while also preventing overcooking and keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the chicken broth in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cut chicken: Save time by using pre-cut chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken.

Quick release: To speed up the cooking process, use the quick release function on the Instant Pot to release the pressure.

Multi-task: While the chicken is cooking, use the time to prepare side dishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Invest in an electric pressure cooker: An electric pressure cooker, such as the Instant Pot, can significantly reduce cooking time and simplify the overall process.

Opt for pre-made gravy: Save time by using pre-made gravy or sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Chicken Recipe

whole chicken - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are more forgiving and won't dry out as easily as a whole chicken when pressure cooked.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a lighter alternative and will still provide a flavorful base for the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
fresh herbs - Substitute with dried herbs: Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh herbs, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated in flavor.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used to thicken the gravy instead of flour, and it creates a glossy texture.

Presenting Instant Pot Chicken Delight

Elevate the chicken: Carefully carve the chicken into elegant portions, ensuring each piece is presented with precision and finesse.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a delicate arrangement of fresh herbs over the chicken to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle with homemade gravy: Artfully drizzle the rich, velvety gravy over the chicken, allowing it to cascade gracefully down the sides of the plate.
Accompany with roasted vegetables: Serve the chicken delight alongside a medley of roasted vegetables, arranged in an eye-catching manner to complement the dish.
Use fine dining plating techniques: Employ meticulous plating techniques, such as using precise swooshes and artistic smears, to create a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by incorporating delicate and edible flowers as a sophisticated garnish for the dish.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Select exquisite serving platters and dinnerware to enhance the overall presentation and create a luxurious dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used for pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more.
Trivet: A metal rack used to elevate the chicken above the liquid in the Instant Pot, allowing for even cooking.
Small pan: A shallow cooking vessel used for broiling the chicken to crisp the skin.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending and mixing ingredients, essential for making the gravy.
Saucepan: Used for making the slurry and thickening the gravy.
Mixing bowl: Used for preparing the slurry for the gravy.
Food tongs: Used for handling the chicken when broiling and transferring it to the small pan.
Knife: Used for slicing the onion and herbs.
Measuring cup/spoon: Used for accurately measuring the chicken broth, olive oil, flour, and water.

How To Store and Freeze This Dish

Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure that the chicken remains fresh and safe to eat.
To store the chicken in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The chicken will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when it was frozen.
When freezing the chicken, it's best to portion it out into individual servings or meal-sized portions. This will allow you to thaw only what you need, without having to defrost the entire chicken.
To freeze the gravy, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Leave some headspace at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion during freezing.
The frozen chicken and gravy will keep in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When you're ready to use them, thaw the chicken and gravy in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until they're heated through.
To reheat the chicken, place it in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat the chicken in the microwave, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
To reheat the gravy, transfer it to a saucepan and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. If the gravy is too thick, you can thin it out with a little chicken broth or water.

Random Fact about Instant Pot Chicken Delight

Instant Pot Chicken Delight is a versatile dish that can be customized with different herbs and seasonings to suit individual tastes.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

The cost-effectiveness of this instant pot chicken delight recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of the ingredients in your area. While a whole chicken and basic pantry items are generally affordable, the use of fresh herbs and olive oil may slightly increase the overall cost. However, considering the potential for leftovers and the versatility of a whole chicken, this recipe can provide multiple meals, making it a budget-friendly option in the long run. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is estimated to be around $15-$20. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The instant pot chicken delight recipe is relatively healthy, but there are a few aspects that could be improved:

Using a whole chicken is a good choice as it is a lean protein source
Onions and fresh herbs add flavor and some nutrients to the dish
Olive oil is a healthy fat, but the amount used is minimal
The recipe relies on salt and pepper for seasoning, which can lead to a high sodium content
The gravy is made with flour, which adds calories and carbohydrates to the dish

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall salt content
Use a variety of herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt, such as garlic, thyme, rosemary, or paprika
Replace the flour in the gravy with a healthier alternative like arrowroot powder or cornstarch to reduce the carbohydrate content
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to increase the nutrient density of the meal
If you're watching your calorie intake, remove the skin from the chicken before eating, as it is high in saturated fat

By making these simple adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious instant pot chicken dinner that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Recipe

This Instant Pot Chicken Delight recipe is a delightful and convenient way to prepare a succulent whole chicken. The use of the Instant Pot ensures that the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the addition of onions, herbs, and chicken broth infuses it with aromatic and savory notes. The simple gravy adds an extra layer of richness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a winner for its ease of preparation and delicious results.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and parmesan cheese

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Tomato Soup: Homemade tomato soup with a hint of basil and a dollop of sour cream

Chocolate Mousse: Decadent chocolate mousse topped with whipped cream and shaved chocolate

Similar Recipes to Try

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef and flavorful vegetables, it's sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Citrus Grilled Salmon: This light and refreshing dish is perfect for a summer barbecue. The tangy citrus marinade pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the grilled salmon.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These tropical popsicles are a refreshing treat on a hot day. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Dish

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with these crispy coconut shrimp. The crunchy coating and sweet coconut flavor make for a delightful appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and decadent chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake that is bursting with the fresh and fruity flavor of ripe strawberries. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a few sliced strawberries for a delightful presentation.

Why trust this Instant Pot Chicken Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a succulent and flavorful whole chicken cooked to perfection in an instant pot. The use of fresh herbs and onions infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors, while the chicken broth ensures moist and tender meat. The olive oil and precise seasoning create a crispy and golden skin, elevating the dish. The accompanying gravy is rich and velvety, adding an extra layer of indulgence. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of this recipe to deliver a delightful chicken dish that will impress and satisfy.

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FAQ:

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time to 8-10 minutes on high pressure for boneless chicken breasts, and 10-12 minutes for boneless chicken thighs.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs instead of fresh ones. Use about 1/3 of the amount of dried herbs as the recipe calls for fresh.

Can I skip the broiling step to crisp the chicken skin?

Yes, you can skip the broiling step, but the skin may not be as crispy. If you prefer crispy skin, I recommend broiling it for a few minutes.

Can I make the gravy without using flour?

Yes, you can make the gravy without using flour. You can use cornstarch as a gluten-free alternative or omit the thickening agent for a lighter sauce.

Can I add vegetables to cook with the chicken?

Yes, you can add vegetables to cook with the chicken. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes work well in the Instant Pot and will absorb the delicious flavors from the chicken and herbs. Cut them into large chunks and place them around the chicken before cooking.