Juicy Instant Pot Whole Chicken and Gravy: Your Easiest Dinner Solution

Prepare to delight your family with a truly savory and unforgettable meal: Instant Pot Whole Chicken and Gravy. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, yet it will leave you feeling like a seasoned chef in your own kitchen. Imagine a perfectly cooked, succulent whole chicken, falling off the bone, accompanied by a rich, homemade gravy that simply elevates every bite. It’s comfort food at its finest, made accessible even on your busiest days thanks to the magic of pressure cooking.

Who says a magnificent roast chicken is only for special occasions or the holidays? While Thanksgiving Roasted Turkey certainly has its place, it’s wonderful to have versatile options throughout the year. Sometimes, securing a large turkey can be a challenge, especially as holidays approach. That’s where a whole chicken steps in as a delicious and convenient alternative. And when you can achieve such incredible results with your Instant Pot, it becomes a weeknight hero or a stress-free centerpiece for any gathering. This Instant Pot Whole Chicken and Gravy recipe delivers all the flavor and tenderness you crave without hours of oven time, providing a fantastic fallback that might just become your new favorite go-to.

Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Whole Chicken

If you’re still on the fence about cooking a whole chicken in your Instant Pot, let me tell you why it’s a game-changer. The pressure cooker environment creates incredibly moist and tender chicken because it locks in all the steam and juices. Unlike oven roasting which can sometimes dry out parts of the bird, the Instant Pot ensures a consistently juicy result from breast to thigh. Plus, it significantly cuts down on cooking time, turning what used to be an hour-plus endeavor into a much quicker process. Another huge bonus? The Instant Pot collects all those delicious drippings at the bottom, making it incredibly easy to whip up a flavorful, silky-smooth gravy right in the same pot. It’s a win-win for flavor, speed, and convenience!

Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a few simple, fresh ingredients to bring out the best in your whole chicken. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need and why each component is essential for achieving that mouthwatering flavor:

• Whole Chicken: The star of our show! A 4-lb chicken is ideal for a 6-quart Instant Pot.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter infused with herbs and garlic creates an incredible flavor and helps the skin crisp up beautifully under the broiler.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the chicken’s natural taste. We’ll discuss optimal salt levels below.
• Fresh Garlic: Both minced for the butter rub and a whole head to stuff inside the chicken for aromatic depth.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Parsley): These fragrant herbs are key to that classic, comforting roast chicken flavor. Finely chopped, they distribute their essence perfectly.
• Chicken Stock: Provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking and forms the flavorful base for your gravy.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux, thickening your drippings into a rich gravy.

Having these ingredients ready ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Instant Pot Whole Chicken

1. Prep the Chicken for Flavor: Begin by thoroughly patting your whole chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the skin brown and crisp later. Gently separate the skin from the breast meat by carefully sliding your hand under the skin from the bottom of the breast. In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with the precise amount of kosher salt (3/4 tsp to 1 tsp per pound of chicken is a good rule of thumb), fresh black pepper, two cloves of minced garlic, finely chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley. This aromatic mixture is what will infuse your chicken with incredible flavor. Rub about half of this herb butter mixture directly under the skin, spreading it evenly over the breast meat. Set the chicken aside.
2. Set Up the Instant Pot: Place the trivet (or steamer rack) at the bottom of your Instant Pot. This elevates the chicken, preventing it from sitting directly in the liquid and ensuring even cooking. Pour 1 cup of chicken stock into the pot; this liquid is essential for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking and will form the flavorful foundation of your gravy. Carefully place the prepared whole chicken, breast-side up, onto the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
3. Flavor Enhancements: Take the remaining head of garlic and cut it in half lengthwise, exposing all the cloves. Stuff these two halves inside the cavity of the chicken. Now, take the rest of your herb butter mixture and rub it generously all over the top of the chicken, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor and a golden finish.
4. Pressure Cook to Perfection: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes per pound of chicken. For example, a 4-lb chicken would cook for 24 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a 15-minute natural pressure release. This is important for keeping the chicken juicy and allowing the internal temperature to equalize. After 15 minutes, carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish.
5. Broil for Crispy Skin: For that coveted golden-brown, crispy skin, place the chicken under the broiler in your oven. Broil on high for approximately 2-5 minutes, watching it very closely to prevent burning. The skin will transform into a beautiful, appealing golden hue.
6. Craft the Ultimate Gravy: While the chicken broils, it’s time to make the rich gravy. Carefully pour all the chicken drippings from the Instant Pot into a fat separator or a bowl. Skim off about 3 tablespoons of fat from the drippings. Wipe out the bottom of the Instant Pot to remove any residue. Return the pot to the appliance and set it to the high sauté setting. Once hot, add the reserved 3 tablespoons of fat and whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for about two minutes.
7. Thicken and Serve: Gradually whisk in 3 cups of the chicken drippings. If your chicken didn’t yield 3 cups of drippings, simply make up the difference with additional chicken stock. Continue to whisk constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the gravy to come to a simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve your beautifully cooked Instant Pot Whole Chicken alongside this incredible homemade gravy and enjoy!

 

Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Whole Chicken & Gravy

• Enhance with Internal Stuffing: Don’t limit yourself to just garlic! For even more flavor from the inside out, consider stuffing the chicken cavity with aromatics like quartered onions, carrots, celery, or fresh lemon slices. These additions infuse the chicken with subtle, delicious notes as it cooks.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Want to explore different flavor profiles? The Instant Pot whole chicken is a fantastic canvas for various seasoning blends. Beyond our herb butter, try a vibrant Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick, a zesty Greek blend, a smoky chipotle seasoning, classic lemon pepper, or even a robust BBQ rub. For deeper flavor, you can rub these seasonings on the chicken a few hours or even overnight before cooking.
• Adjusting Gravy with Drippings: It’s perfectly normal if your chicken doesn’t yield exactly 3 cups of drippings for the gravy. No need to worry! Simply make up the difference with good quality chicken stock. The goal is to reach that 3-cup volume for the ideal gravy consistency.
• Don’t Skip the Broiler: While the Instant Pot cooks the chicken to tender perfection, it won’t give you crispy skin. The broiler is your best friend here! A few minutes under high heat will transform the skin into a beautiful golden-brown and delightfully crisp texture. Just remember to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
• Rest Your Chicken: After broiling and before carving, let your whole chicken rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and flavorful. Covering it loosely with foil can help retain warmth.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For ultimate food safety and perfectly cooked chicken, always use a reliable meat thermometer. The internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone) should reach 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken & Gravy

The beauty of a classic whole chicken and gravy meal is its versatility when it comes to side dishes. You can hardly go wrong! Here are some of my favorite accompaniments that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this Instant Pot creation:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The quintessential pairing! Velvety mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up every last drop of that savory homemade gravy.
• Mashed Sweet Potatoes: For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, mashed sweet potatoes offer a delicious contrast to the chicken.
• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: Layers of tender potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce add a wonderfully indulgent element to the meal.
• Cheese Garlic Biscuits: Fluffy, buttery biscuits with a hint of garlic are perfect for wiping your plate clean and enjoying alongside the chicken.
• Creamed Mushrooms: Earthy and rich, creamed mushrooms provide a sophisticated and flavorful vegetable side.
• Creamed Corn: A sweet and creamy side that appeals to all ages, adding a comforting touch.
• Loaded Mac & Cheese: For a truly hearty and satisfying feast, a rich and cheesy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: Keep it simple and fresh with a vibrant green vegetable, lightly seasoned to balance the richness of the main course.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted alongside the chicken (if doing a hybrid approach) or separately provide wholesome goodness.

No matter which sides you choose, this Instant Pot Whole Chicken and Gravy is sure to be the star of your dinner table.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Instant Pot Size: Will a 6-Quart Instant Pot Hold a Whole Chicken?

Yes, most 6-quart Instant Pots can comfortably accommodate a whole chicken, especially one weighing up to 5-6 pounds. For this Instant Pot whole chicken recipe, a 4-pound bird fits perfectly, leaving enough room for the trivet and liquid. However, if you frequently cook for more than 3-4 people, or if you prefer larger chickens, I would definitely suggest investing in an 8-quart Instant Pot. The extra capacity is incredibly handy for bigger cuts of meat, larger batches of soup, or when entertaining a crowd. Knowing the proper size for your family unit and cooking needs is key to maximizing the utility of your pressure cooker.

Cooking a Frozen Whole Chicken in the Instant Pot: Is it Possible?

Absolutely! One of the fantastic advantages of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook a whole frozen chicken. However, there are a couple of crucial adjustments you’ll need to make for safe and delicious results. First, it’s imperative to ensure all plastic ties, covers, and internal packaging (like the giblet bag) are removed from the chicken *before* placing it in the pot. If these are frozen inside, you may need to run some warm water over the cavity to loosen them. Second, you’ll need to significantly increase the cooking time. As a general rule, increase the cooking time by approximately 5 minutes per pound for a frozen chicken. For instance, if you normally cook a 10-pound thawed whole chicken for an hour, a frozen 10-pound chicken would require about 1 hour and 50 minutes (10 lbs * 5 min/lb = 50 min extra). Always double-check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

How Much Salt Should I Add for Optimal Flavor?

The amount of salt is largely a matter of personal preference, but a good rule of thumb for a perfectly seasoned whole chicken is to add 3/4 tsp to 1 tsp of Kosher salt per pound of chicken. For a 4-lb whole chicken, this would mean approximately 3 teaspoons of Kosher salt. Keep in mind that Kosher salt has a larger grain size than table salt, so if you’re using table salt, you’ll need slightly less (about half the amount for the same saltiness). It’s always best to start on the conservative side and add more to taste, especially since you can adjust the gravy seasoning at the end.

The Broiler Finish: Do I Have to Broil the Chicken?

If you desire a visually appealing, golden-brown chicken with wonderfully crisp skin, then yes, broiling is a highly recommended step. While the Instant Pot excels at delivering incredibly tender and juicy meat, it doesn’t brown the skin. After your chicken is cooked in the Instant Pot, transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish and place it under a preheated broiler for 2-5 minutes. This brief stint under high heat will quickly render the skin delightfully crispy and give it that attractive, appetizing color. Be sure to keep a close watch, as broilers work quickly and can burn the skin if left unattended for too long. It’s a small extra step that makes a big difference in presentation and texture!

 

Storage and Reheating Best Practices

Having leftovers of this delicious Instant Pot whole chicken and gravy is a wonderful thing! Here’s how to store them properly and reheat for optimal enjoyment:

• Fridge Storage: Once cooled, carve the chicken and store the meat and gravy separately (or together, if preferred) in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
• Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, portion out the cooked chicken and gravy into freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating Methods:
  • Microwave: For quick reheating, place individual portions of chicken and gravy in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, which can dry it out.
  • Stovetop: Reheat gravy gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. For the chicken, add a splash of chicken broth or water to a pan, add the chicken pieces, cover, and heat gently until warmed through.
  • Oven/Air Fryer: For crispier chicken, especially if you have skin on, preheat your oven to 300-325°F (150-160°C) or air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken pieces in a single layer and heat until warmed through and the skin crisps up.

 

 

If you’re a fan of the convenience and incredible results of Instant Pot recipes, then you absolutely must try this Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken and Instant Pot Smothered Turkey Wings. These recipes further showcase the versatility of your pressure cooker for creating flavorful, easy meals. For more delicious recipes and insightful cooking tutorial videos, be sure to check out Julie Maestre’s Youtube channel and Facebook page.