If you’re craving a dish that melds convenience with comforting, herb-infused flavor, the Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs and Optional Crispy Skin Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe takes a whole chicken and transforms it into juicy perfection, fully infused with fragrant herbs, all in less than an hour. Plus, it offers the delightful option to finish with irresistibly crispy skin for that extra touch of indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or a casual gathering, this chicken is sure to impress while keeping things refreshingly simple and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the rich, balanced flavors and tender texture you’ll fall in love with. These essentials come together to ensure the chicken tastes fresh, aromatic, and comforting.
- 8 cups cold water: The cooking base that gently steams the chicken and infuses the herbs.
- 5 teaspoons fine sea salt: Enhances flavor and seasons the chicken deeply during cooking.
- 2 bay leaves: Adds a subtle earthy aroma that complements the herb mix.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a warm, slightly bitter herb note to the broth.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Offers a piney, fragrant touch that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Contributes a delicate, minty flavor that brightens the dish.
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds): The star ingredient; choosing a fresh, high-quality bird makes all the difference.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional): For brushing and adding richness if you opt for crispy skin.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional): Adds a savory, umami kick, amplifying the skin’s flavor during broiling.
How to Make Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs and Optional Crispy Skin Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
This first step is all about setting the stage for flavorful, tender chicken. Combine the cold water, salt, bay leaves, oregano, rosemary, and thyme right inside the pot. Give it a good stir so the salt dissolves fully, creating a fragrant herb bath that will gently season your whole chicken as it cooks.
Step 2: Submerge the Chicken
Gently place your whole chicken breast side up into the liquid mixture. It’s important that the chicken is at least 90% submerged, so it cooks evenly and picks up all the herbal goodness swimming in the broth. The Instant Pot will work its magic by infusing those flavors into the meat.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Seal the lid tightly and set the venting knob to sealing. Select the high-pressure cooking setting and program it for zero minutes; yes, zero! This surprising timing takes advantage of the pressure build-up and gradual cooking process inside the pot, making the chicken incredibly juicy and tender without overcooking.
Step 4: Natural Release
Patience pays off here. Allow the pressure to naturally release for 20 to 22 minutes. During this window, the chicken continues to cook gently and soak up herbal flavors, locking in moisture and resulting in melt-in-your-mouth meat.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Once the pressure has fully released, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken. The goal is at least 161°F (72°C) to ensure it’s safe and perfectly cooked. This simple check guarantees a juicy bird every single time.
Step 6: Optional Step for Crispy Skin
If crispy skin is your thing, this optional step is a game-changer. Brush the chicken all over with unsalted butter and soy sauce for that savory caramelized finish, then pop it under the broiler for a few minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. It’s a delightful textural contrast to the tender meat underneath.
Step 7: Serve
After broiling, let your chicken rest a few minutes before slicing. This little pause allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful. Now it’s ready to make its grand entrance at your table!
How to Serve Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs and Optional Crispy Skin Recipe
Garnishes
Keep garnishes fresh and simple to highlight the herbaceous notes of the chicken. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, thyme sprigs, or lemon wedges brightens the plate and adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. These little touches invite your eyes and palate to savor every bite even more.
Side Dishes
This herb-infused chicken pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Think buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up the juices, roasted seasonal vegetables for earthiness, or a crisp green salad for contrast. The possibilities are endless and tailor your meal to whatever mood or occasion you’re celebrating.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family dinner, slice the chicken and serve it on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh herbs and lemon wedges. Hosting friends? Impress by plating each portion with a drizzle of herb cooking liquid or a quick gremolata of zest and garlic for an extra herb burst. Presentation can be as relaxed or elegant as you like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to four days, ready to be enjoyed in sandwiches, salads, or reheated for a quick meal. Keeping the chicken moist is key, so save any juices to pour over leftovers.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze portions of the cooked chicken for up to three months. Just pack pieces tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags, ideally with a splash of the cooking liquid to prevent drying. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy your Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs and Optional Crispy Skin Recipe leftovers, gently reheat in the oven at low temperature or in a covered skillet with a little broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve texture and avoid drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add a brighter flavor. Use about two to three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, and add some to the cooking liquid and some tucked under the skin for more aroma.
What if I want to cook a larger chicken or turkey?
For larger birds, you may need to increase the cooking and natural release times slightly to ensure even cooking. A good rule of thumb is to add about 5-7 minutes per extra pound and always check internal temperature carefully.
Is the crispy skin really necessary?
Not at all! The chicken is delicious and juicy without the crispy skin step. That finishing step is simply for those who want that golden, slightly crunchy exterior which pairs wonderfully with the tender meat.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Simply skip the butter in the crispy skin step or substitute with a dairy-free spread or oil. The soy sauce adds plenty of flavor and helps achieve a great crispy finish too.
Why do we cook the chicken for zero minutes under high pressure?
This method leverages the time it takes for the Instant Pot to reach pressure and the natural release period to cook the bird gently and evenly. It prevents tough or dry chicken while still ensuring food safety and tenderness.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Herbs and Optional Crispy Skin Recipe, it’ll quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. The simplicity, the comforting herb flavors, and the option for that mouthwatering crispy skin create a perfect combination every time. Don’t hesitate to make it tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.
