Name: Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 pound whole chicken; ½ cup butter ((unsalted)); 4 cloves garlic ((minced)); 1 tablespoon rosemary ((fresh, chopped)); 1 tablespoon thyme ((fresh, chopped)); 2 teaspoon lemon zest ((zest from one lemon)); ½ teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); ½ teaspoon pepper ((or to taste)); 1 cup chicken broth ((low sodium or no sodium added))

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The Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken is one of those magical meals that bring the family together, filling the home with mouthwatering aromas and creating a cozy atmosphere. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy weekend, and I craved something warm and comforting. As the chicken cooked, I could hardly wait to see how it would turn out. With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty pressure cooker, I created a dish that was not only delicious but also incredibly moist. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a culinary rock star without spending hours in the kitchen, and I guarantee it will become a staple in your household.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Air Fryer, Instant Pot, Mixing Bowl, Skillet

The Appeal of This Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken

Speed and Convenience

One of the main reasons to love the Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken is the sheer speed at which you can have a hearty meal ready. Unlike traditional roasting, which can take hours, the pressure cooker dramatically reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a tender and juicy chicken in just about 30 minutes.

Moist and Flavorful

Cooking under pressure locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in a beautifully tender chicken that’s bursting with taste. The compound butter, infused with garlic and herbs, seeps into the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. You won’t find a drier piece of chicken here!

Versatility

This recipe provides a fantastic base for so many meals. Once you have your pressure-cooked chicken, you can easily shred it for tacos, add it to salads, or serve it with your favorite sides. The possibilities are endless!

Easy Cleanup

Let’s be honest: nobody loves doing dishes. The beauty of the pressure cooker lies not only in its cooking prowess but also in the ease of cleanup. One pot does it all, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining.

Healthier Cooking

By cooking your chicken in a pressure cooker, you’re also making a healthier choice. The method uses less oil and keeps the natural juices intact, leading to a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor. It’s a win-win!

Family Favorite

Lastly, the Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken is universally loved. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages. Whether you have picky eaters or adventurous palates, everyone will be satisfied with this comforting meal.

What to Buy for Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken

When preparing the Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken, the quality of your ingredients truly matters. Fresh, wholesome ingredients create not just a meal but an experience that nourishes the body and soul. The key players in this dish are the chicken, aromatic herbs, and flavorful butter that harmonize beautifully for a taste that’s unforgettable.

3 pound whole chicken: This is the star of the show, providing succulent meat that serves multiple purposes. Opt for an organic bird if possible, as it tends to be more flavorful and healthier.
½ cup unsalted butter: This rich ingredient helps create the compound butter that infuses the chicken with savory goodness. Unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
4 cloves minced garlic: Garlic adds depth and a fragrant aroma that elevates the chicken’s flavor profile.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary: This herb brings a distinct aroma and slight pine-like flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme: Thyme complements the rosemary beautifully, adding a subtle earthiness.
2 teaspoons lemon zest: The zest brightens up the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter and adding a refreshing flavor.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your preference.
½ teaspoon pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle kick.
1 cup low sodium chicken broth: Acts as the cooking liquid and helps to keep the chicken moist while infusing additional flavor.

How to Prepare Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken

Preparing the Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll soon have a feast that impresses everyone at the table. Let’s dive into making this fantastic dish!

Make the compound butter: Start by mixing the butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl until thoroughly combined. This will become the flavorful stuffing for under the chicken’s skin.
Season the chicken: With your hands, carefully create pockets between the skin and meat of the whole chicken. Gently spread the prepared butter mixture under the skin, ensuring both the breasts and legs are well-coated. Tie the ends of the legs together using butcher’s twine to keep everything intact during cooking.
Pressure cook the chicken: Pour the chicken broth into the pressure cooker pot. Place the chicken on the wire rack inside the pot. Melt the remaining compound butter and brush half of it over the chicken’s exterior. Seal the lid and cook on the pressure setting for 15 minutes.
Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out the remaining steam.
Air fry the chicken: If your pressure cooker has an air crisp function, set the temperature to 400F. Brush the chicken with the remaining melted butter and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Things Worth Knowing

Finding the right balance of seasoning is essential; don’t be shy with the salt and pepper.
Make sure the chicken is completely thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.
Using fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can make a significant difference in flavor.
If using an air fryer, ensure the chicken doesn’t overcrowd the basket for optimal crispiness.

Helpful Notes about Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken

Here are some helpful notes to make your cooking experience smoother and ensure the best results with your Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken.

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Freezing: You can freeze leftover cooked chicken for easy future meals. Just shred it and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Pairing: This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Cooking times: For a thawed chicken, cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per pound. For frozen, aim for 10 to 12 minutes per pound.
No air fryer: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use the broil function on your oven as an alternative to achieve crispy skin.

Serving Options for Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken

When it comes to serving the Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken, the options are as delicious as the dish itself. Here are some delightful ideas:

With roasted vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts for a colorful and nutritious plate.
In salads: Shred the leftover chicken and toss it in a fresh green salad topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
For lunch: Use the chicken in wraps or sandwiches, adding your favorite condiments and veggies for a satisfying lunch option.
During special occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even casual dinner parties. It impresses without being overly complicated.
For seasonal dishes: Pair the chicken with side dishes that reflect the current season, such as a pumpkin soup in the fall or a bright cucumber salad in the summer.
With grains: Serve the chicken with quinoa or rice to soak up all the flavorful juices from the meat.

FAQ

To ensure your Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken is fully cooked, it’s essential to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends that chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. If it reads 165°F or above, your chicken is safe to eat and wonderfully juicy!

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for the Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken. Just keep in mind that the cooking time will increase. For frozen whole chicken, the general rule is to cook for 10 to 12 minutes per pound. Make sure to check that it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F once done.

The Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I recommend serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even mashed potatoes. You can also shred the leftover chicken and use it in tacos or wraps for a delightful meal the next day!

To keep your Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken moist, it’s important to use a compound butter under the skin and to avoid overcooking. Sealing the chicken tightly during pressure cooking helps retain moisture. Additionally, allowing it to rest after cooking will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicy bite.

Conclusion

The Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. With just a few ingredients and a reliable pressure cooker, you can create a meal that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners.