Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herb Butter Recipe

Introduction

This Instant Pot whole chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful way to prepare a juicy, tender bird without hours in the kitchen. Infused with fresh herbs and garlic, it makes a perfect family dinner or weekend meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary (plus 2-3 sprigs)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme (plus 2-3 sprigs)
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 small onion (halved)
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, minced garlic, and salt.
2. Step 2: Gently loosen the skin on the breast and legs of the chicken to create pockets. Rub the butter mixture under the skin to coat these areas evenly.
3. Step 3: Place the halved onion and sprigs of thyme and rosemary inside the chicken cavity.
4. Step 4: Tie the ends of the legs together using butcher’s twine and tuck the wings underneath the legs for a compact shape.
5. Step 5: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside, then set the chicken on top. Dot the remaining butter mixture over the top of the bird.
6. Step 6: Close the lid and set to seal. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes per pound, adding 4 minutes for every additional half pound.
7. Step 7: Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then vent the remaining pressure by turning the valve or waiting for the pin to drop.
8. Step 8: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot using the trivet handles.
9. Step 9: If you prefer crispy skin, place the chicken in a baking dish and broil for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
10. Step 10: Cut the twine, then slice or shred the chicken before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken with the herb butter mixture a few hours ahead or overnight in the fridge.
• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces if you don’t have a whole bird; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Broil the chicken skin briefly just before serving to enhance both color and texture.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain juiciness. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I cook a larger chicken in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can. Adjust the cooking time to 6 minutes per pound plus 4 minutes for every additional half pound over the base weight. Make sure the chicken fits comfortably in your Instant Pot.

Do I need to add liquid when pressure cooking a whole chicken?

Yes, adding at least 1 cup of liquid such as chicken broth or water is necessary to create steam and build pressure inside the Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herb Butter Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.4 from 363 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe offers a simple, flavorful way to prepare a juicy and tender whole chicken infused with fresh herbs and garlic. Using the pressure cooker method ensures the chicken cooks evenly and quickly, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Optionally finishing under the broiler crisps the skin for added texture and flavor.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Herb Mixture

• 1 whole chicken (3–4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary (plus 2–3 sprigs)
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped thyme (plus 2–3 sprigs)
• 2–3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients

• 1 small onion (halved)
• 1 cup chicken broth

---

Instructions

1. Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, minced garlic, and salt until well mixed.
2. Apply Herb Butter Under Skin: Gently loosen the skin on the breast and legs of the chicken to create pockets. Rub the butter mixture underneath the skin to evenly coat these areas, infusing flavor directly into the meat.
3. Stuff the Chicken Cavity: Place the halved onion and sprigs of rosemary and thyme inside the chicken cavity to add aromatic flavor during cooking.
4. Truss the Chicken: Tie the ends of the chicken legs together using butcher’s twine and tuck the wings under the legs to ensure even cooking and maintain shape. This helps the chicken cook uniformly.
5. Prepare Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the metal trivet inside. Set the prepared chicken on top of the trivet. Dot the remaining butter mixture on the top of the chicken for added moisture and flavor.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes per pound of chicken, adding an extra 4 minutes for every half pound above 3 pounds to ensure thorough cooking.
7. Natural Release: When cooking completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to vent to release any remaining pressure.
8. Remove Chicken: Open the lid carefully and lift the chicken from the pot using the trivet handles to avoid burns or damage to the meat.
9. Optional Broiling for Crispy Skin: If a browned, crispy skin is desired, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and place under a broiler for a few minutes. Watch closely as broiling browns quickly to prevent burning.
10. Serve: Remove the twine, carve or shred the chicken as preferred, and serve immediately, enjoying juicy, flavorful meat.

Notes

• Trussing the chicken ensures even cooking and helps maintain a nice shape.
• Natural pressure release helps retain moisture and tenderness in the chicken.
• Broiling is optional but adds a crispy skin finish if desired.
• Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking for even pressure cooking.
• Use fresh herbs when possible for the best flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes (for 3.5-pound chicken, approximate)
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Instant Pot
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Instant Pot whole chicken, pressure cooker chicken, herb butter chicken, easy whole chicken recipe, one-pot chicken