When it comes to weeknight dinners, busy home cooks are always on the lookout for quick and delicious solutions. One popular kitchen appliance that has become a staple in many households is the Instant Pot. This pressure cooker can be used to cook a wide variety of meals, including whole chickens. In this article, we will explore 20 different Instant Pot whole chicken recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic flavors like lemon garlic and BBQ to international inspirations like Greek-style and Teriyaki, these recipes offer something for everyone. Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation, making them ideal for a quick and tasty dinner. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, these Instant Pot whole chicken recipes are sure to please.
In this article, we will provide the recipes and instructions for each of the 20 different flavors listed below…
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Whole Chicken
This Instant Pot recipe yields a juicy and aromatic whole chicken with the perfect balance of lemony brightness and savory garlic flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Sear the whole chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Add sliced lemons, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Pressure cook on high for 25-30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Open the valve and quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Whole Chicken
Savor the flavors of a classic BBQ whole chicken with minimal effort and maximum tenderness. This recipe yields a mouthwatering, fall-apart result that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Sear the chicken for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Pour in the BBQ sauce and close the lid.
5. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook at high pressure for 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes (depending on the size of your chicken)
Instant Pot Herb-Roasted Whole Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this simple and flavorful recipe for a whole chicken roasted to perfection in the Instant Pot. The result is a juicy, aromatic bird with crispy skin that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In the Instant Pot, combine the olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in the pot, breast side up.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 20-25 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Mustard Whole Chicken
Transform your whole chicken into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy Instant Pot recipe. The honey mustard glaze adds a rich and tangy flavor that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme until well combined.
3. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and brush with the honey mustard glaze.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot Spicy Cajun Whole Chicken
This recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional roasted chicken, with the added kick of spicy Cajun seasonings and the convenience of cooking it all in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken to the pot, breast side down.
3. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 25 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Instant Pot Greek-Style Whole Chicken
Enjoy a deliciously moist and flavorful whole chicken with this simple Instant Pot recipe, infused with the classic flavors of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, quartered
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
4. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on High Pressure for 20-25 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Whole Chicken
This recipe yields a mouthwatering teriyaki whole chicken that’s cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With its sweet and savory glaze, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the sesame oil until shimmering.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot breast side up.
5. Pour in the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Cook on “High Pressure” for 20 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Whole Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this simple yet impressive Instant Pot recipe that yields a succulent whole chicken smothered in rich garlic butter. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Place the whole chicken in the pot, breast side up.
4. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the cooking time to 12 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Instant Pot Rosemary Lemon Whole Chicken
Elevate your meal with this aromatic and flavorful Instant Pot recipe. Tender, juicy chicken infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary – perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot with 2 tbsp of olive oil.
2. Add the whole chicken, breast side down. Cook for 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Add the sliced lemons and sprigs of rosemary around the chicken.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 20-25 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken, slice, and serve with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (high pressure)
Instant Pot Mexican-Spiced Whole Chicken
This recipe yields a deliciously tender and flavorful whole chicken with the perfect blend of spices, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook at high pressure for 25-30 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Whole Chicken
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Indian-inspired cuisine with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup curry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the cumin, turmeric, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
2. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side down. Pour in the curry sauce and coconut milk.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 25 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5-7 minutes before carving. Serve with garnishes of your choice.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes (plus natural release time)
Instant Pot Smoky Paprika Whole Chicken
Transform a whole chicken into a mouthwatering main course with the rich flavors of smoky paprika and tenderizing pressure cooking. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Season the whole chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, rubbing the spices all over the bird.
3. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
5. Press the “Manual” button and set the cooking time to 25 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot Balsamic Glazed Whole Chicken
Impress your family with this tender and flavorful whole chicken dish, all thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot using the “Saute” function until shimmering.
3. Sear the chicken on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add the balsamic glaze to the pot and stir to combine with the pan juices.
5. Place the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Cook at high pressure for 20-25 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Instant Pot Italian Herb Whole Chicken
Elevate your meal with a flavorful and tender whole chicken infused with the aromas of Italy.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lbs) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken to the pot, breast side down. Cook for 5 minutes or until browned.
3. Flip the chicken and add the rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 12 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 22 minutes (includes natural release)
Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Whole Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this mouthwatering Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Whole Chicken recipe, packed with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. This easy-to-make dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the honey, sriracha sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
3. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
4. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot, making sure the chicken is submerged.
5. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Whole Chicken
Moist and flavorful, this Garlic Parmesan Whole Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering main course ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
3. Sear the chicken for 5 minutes, then flip and sear for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and Parmesan cheese to the pot, stirring to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 20 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Lemon Pepper Whole Chicken
Impress your family and friends with this easy and delicious Instant Pot Lemon Pepper Whole Chicken recipe. With a burst of citrusy flavor and a hint of pepper, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the whole chicken to the pot, breast side down.
3. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
4. Add the lemon juice, garlic, and chicken broth to the pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes + 10-minute natural release
Instant Pot Asian-Style Whole Chicken
Transform a whole chicken into a mouthwatering, savory delight with this easy and convenient recipe for the Instant Pot. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and moist main course in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
5. Add water to the pot and close the lid. Set valve to “sealing”.
6. Cook on HIGH PRESSURE for 25-30 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Instant Pot Ranch-Seasoned Whole Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields a moist and delicious whole chicken, infused with the richness of ranch seasoning. This Instant Pot recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp ranch seasoning mix
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Instant Pot by turning it on “Saute” mode for 2 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir to combine.
3. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side down.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 25 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Instant Pot Maple Dijon Whole Chicken
Impress your family with this effortless and delicious whole chicken recipe, infused with the sweetness of maple syrup and tanginess of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard until smooth.
3. Rub the maple-Dijon mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
5. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “sealing”. Cook on HIGH PRESSURE for 20-25 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with these 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot whole chicken recipes! From classic flavors like lemon garlic and BBQ, to international twists like Greek-style and Mexican-spiced, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a simple dinner solution, these delicious recipes are sure to become new family favorites. So why wait? Try one (or all!) of these incredible Instant Pot whole chicken recipes tonight!
