20 Flavorful Instant Pot Whole Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

When it comes to busy weeknights, it can be a challenge to come up with delicious and easy meal ideas that fit your schedule. That’s why we’re excited to share our collection of 20 flavorful Instant Pot whole chicken recipes with you! These recipes are perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

From classic flavors like garlic herb and lemon pepper, to international-inspired dishes like teriyaki and Jamaican jerk, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe uses just one ingredient – a whole chicken! No need to worry about complicated prep work or cleanup. Just toss everything in the Instant Pot, set it, and forget it.

In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouth-watering recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and mouthwatering photos to help you create your next family favorite dinner. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on-the-go, or just someone who loves easy and delicious meals, you’re in luck!

Garlic Herb Instant Pot Whole Chicken

This recipe yields a moist and flavorful whole chicken with a savory garlic herb crust, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
4. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and add the butter to the liquid.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes total (20 minutes cooking + 10 minutes natural release)

Lemon Pepper Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Elevate your dinner game with this moist and flavorful whole chicken recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of pepper.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the sliced lemons, black peppercorns, and garlic; cook for 2 minutes.
2. Add the whole chicken to the pot, breast side up. Season with kosher salt.
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 10-15 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

BBQ Glazed Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Simplify your Sunday dinner with this mouthwatering BBQ glazed whole chicken recipe that’s cooked to perfection in under an hour.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tbsp of butter. Add the brown sugar and whisk until dissolved.
3. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot breast-side down. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Spicy Cajun Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering whole chicken recipe, infused with a spicy kick from Cajun seasoning.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Place the whole chicken in the pot, breast side up.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
5. Set the valve to “SEALING” and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
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 10-15 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Enjoy your juicy, spicy Cajun whole chicken!

Honey Mustard Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Transform your chicken into a sweet and tangy masterpiece with this easy-to-make recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the honey-mustard mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot and add the chicken broth.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Press “manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
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 10-15 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Rosemary Garlic Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and flavorful whole chicken recipe, perfectly cooked to tender perfection using the Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the olive oil, garlic, and rosemary; sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time:

– High-pressure cook time: 20 minutes
– Natural pressure release time: 10-15 minutes

Teriyaki Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Transform a whole chicken into a tender and flavorful dish with this easy recipe, featuring the classic Japanese flavors of teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the teriyaki sauce, garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Stir until combined.
3. Place the whole chicken in the inner pot, breast side up. Pour the teriyaki mixture over the chicken.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Greek Style Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this tender and juicy whole chicken recipe cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Place the whole chicken in the pot, breast side down. Pour in the chicken broth and red wine (if using).
4. 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.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Smoky Paprika Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Savor the rich flavors of this slow-cooked whole chicken, infused with the deep smokiness of paprika and a hint of garlic. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp 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 smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
5. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook on “High Pressure” for 20 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Citrus Herb Instant Pot Whole Chicken

A bright and citrusy twist on a classic whole chicken recipe, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the lemons, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot and pour in the chicken broth.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Garlic Butter Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a juicy and flavorful chicken that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 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 Instant Pot, breast side down.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
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 steam.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including pressure release)

Asian Five-Spice Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Elevate your dinner game with this effortless and aromatic whole chicken recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Asian five-spice.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp Asian five-spice powder
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the vegetable oil and swirl it around.
3. Place the whole chicken in the pot, breast side up.
4. Sprinkle the Asian five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot 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 steam.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Enjoy your perfectly cooked, flavorful whole chicken with minimal effort!

Herbed Lemon Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Transform your dinner routine with this flavorful and moist whole chicken recipe, infused with the brightness of lemon and herbs.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Place the whole chicken in the pot, breast side up.
3. Add the sliced lemons, rosemary leaves, salt, and pepper around the chicken.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Maple Dijon Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Transform a whole chicken into tender, flavorful perfection with this easy and impressive recipe. The sweetness of maple syrup pairs beautifully with the tanginess of Dijon mustard, all infused into the moistest meat.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the chicken, breast-side down, and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Flip the chicken over and add the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally (10-15 minutes).
6. Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering recipe that cooks a whole chicken to perfection in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp Jamaican jerk seasoning
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken inside and out with Jamaican jerk seasoning.
2. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk, making sure the chicken is covered.
7. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
8. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
9. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Enjoy your deliciously tender and flavorful Jamaican Jerk Instant Pot Whole Chicken!

Pesto Infused Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this mouthwatering Pesto Infused Instant Pot Whole Chicken recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3.5 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder.
2. In the Instant Pot insert, add the olive oil and pesto. Stir until combined.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the pot, breast-side down.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 25 minutes.
5. Let the 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 serving.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Soy Ginger Instant Pot Whole Chicken

This recipe brings together the savory flavors of soy sauce and ginger to create a deliciously moist and aromatic whole chicken dish, all in under an hour.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
3. Place the whole chicken in the pot, breast side up.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes (25 minutes cooking time + 10 minutes natural release)

Garlic Parmesan Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Elevate your mealtime with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields a tender, juicy whole chicken with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the olive oil, then add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Place the whole chicken in the Instant Pot breast side up.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 12 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.

Cooking Time: 22 minutes (including natural pressure release)

Tandoori Style Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Experience the authentic flavors of India with this simplified tandoori-style whole chicken recipe, cooked to perfection using your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated.
3. Place the marinated chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side down.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
5. Press “manual” mode 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 steam.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of yogurt, if desired.

Balsamic Glazed Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Transform your whole chicken with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

– 1 (4-6 pound) whole chicken
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, breast side up.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Remove the chicken from the pot and glaze with the balsamic mixture.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Summary

Discover delicious and easy whole chicken recipes for busy weeknights with your Instant Pot. From savory flavors like Garlic Herb, Spicy Cajun, and Smoky Paprika to sweet and tangy options like Lemon Pepper, Honey Mustard, and Balsamic Glazed, these 20 recipes offer a variety of mouthwatering flavors. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, these Instant Pot whole chicken recipes are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.