How To Cook A Whole Chicken In Instapot

Mastering the Art of Cooking a Whole Chicken in an Instapot

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Cooking a whole chicken in an Instapot can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. But fear not! With a few insider tips and tricks, you’ll be able to confidently create a delicious and tender chicken dish that will leave your taste buds singing.

Why Choose an Instapot?

The Instapot has become a kitchen staple for its versatility and convenience. It combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more, making it the perfect tool for cooking a whole chicken. With its sealed lid and high-pressure cooking capabilities, an Instapot allows for faster cooking times and seals in the flavors and juices, resulting in a moist and succulent chicken.

Preparation is Key

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to properly prepare your whole chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. A whole chicken (around 4-5 pounds) – preferably organic or free-range for enhanced flavor
2. Seasonings and herbs of your choice – think garlic, thyme, rosemary, or lemon
3. Vegetables – carrots, celery, and onions are classic choices to enhance the flavor of your chicken
4. Olive oil or butter
5. Salt and pepper
6. Chicken broth or broth substitute (optional)

Once you have gathered all your ingredients and equipment, you’re ready to get cooking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by rinsing the chicken thoroughly and patting it dry with paper towels. This will ensure a crispy skin and prevent excess moisture.

2. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty here – massaging the seasoning into the skin will infuse the flavors into the meat.

3. For added flavor, stuff the cavity with your chosen herbs and aromatics. This will give your chicken a delightful aroma and taste.

4. Set your Instapot to “SAUTE” mode and heat the olive oil or butter. Once hot, place the whole chicken in and brown it on all sides for about 5 minutes. This step will lock in the juices and add a beautiful golden color to your chicken.

5. Remove the chicken from the Instapot and set it aside. Add the chopped vegetables to the pot, stirring occasionally until they become slightly softened and golden.

6. Place a trivet or steamer basket inside the Instapot and put the chicken back on top. This will prevent the chicken from sitting directly in the liquid, ensuring a crispy skin.

7. If desired, pour in chicken broth or broth substitute around the chicken. This will enhance the flavors and keep the meat moist during the cooking process.

8. Secure the lid of your Instapot and set it to “PRESSURE COOK” mode. Cook the chicken for approximately 6 minutes per pound. For example, a 4-pound chicken would cook for about 24 minutes.

9. Once the cooking time is complete, naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes. Afterward, use the quick release method to release any remaining pressure.

10. Carefully remove the chicken from the Instapot and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve successfully cooked a whole chicken in your Instapot, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here are a few ways to serve your delectable creation:

• Carve the chicken and serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
• Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or wraps.
• Add the chicken to a comforting soup or flavorful stir-fry.
• Use the leftover bones and carcass to make a homemade chicken stock for future recipes.

With these tips and tricks, cooking a whole chicken in an Instapot will become second nature. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let your Instapot work its magic. Bon appétit!