Master the Perfect Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken: Juicy, Flavorful & Effortless Homemade Goodness
Transform your weeknight dinners and holiday tables with this incredibly easy and flavorful Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken recipe. Achieving a perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy whole chicken has never been simpler, thanks to the magic of pressure cooking. Seasoned with a robust blend of aromatic spices, fresh lemon, fragrant garlic, and sweet onions, this recipe yields a chicken so delicious, you’ll wonder why you ever bought it pre-made. Whether you plan to shred it for versatile meal prep or slice it for a show-stopping main course with your favorite sides, this homemade rotisserie-style chicken offers minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, making it ideal for busy families and festive gatherings alike.
Your Go-To Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
As the holiday season approaches, many of us might find ourselves planning smaller, more intimate gatherings. Instead of preparing a massive turkey, a perfectly cooked whole chicken can be a fantastic alternative. This Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken recipe is not only a brilliant choice for your holiday table but also a game-changer for effortless weeknight meals. The beauty of using an Instant Pot lies in its ability to deliver a tender, moist chicken with minimal effort and, crucially, very little cleanup.
Gone are the days of long roasting times and constant basting. The Instant Pot streamlines the process, locking in moisture and flavor under pressure. This results in a chicken that is incredibly juicy from the inside out, making it an ideal candidate for shredding into delicious ingredients for a variety of dishes or serving sliced alongside your favorite sides. It offers the classic rotisserie flavor we all love, but with the convenience and health benefits of a homemade meal.
If you’re exploring other whole chicken options, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Mediterranean Whole Chicken or the classic Whole Roasted Chicken with Potatoes. However, for sheer speed and ease, the Instant Pot version truly shines.
The best part about cooking a whole chicken, regardless of the method, is the generous amount of delicious leftovers it provides. This makes meal prepping a breeze! You can effortlessly transform the leftover chicken into diverse meals throughout the week. For more Instant Pot chicken inspiration, check out our Instant Pot Creamy Rosemary Chicken Thighs, Easy Instant Pot Shredded Chicken, or this comforting Instant Pot White Chicken Chili. With the succulent meat from this rotisserie chicken, you can whip up quick Easy Chicken Sliders or a flavorful Simple Curry Chicken Salad. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a versatile foundation for countless family favorites.
Essential Ingredients for Your Pressure Cooker Whole Chicken
Crafting the perfect Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken begins with a selection of fresh, quality ingredients that truly elevate the flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:
WHOLE CHICKEN: For this recipe, we recommend a 3 to 4-pound whole chicken. This size fits well within most standard Instant Pot models and cooks efficiently. When selecting your chicken, aim for one without giblets if possible, or remember to remove them from the cavity before you begin preparation. Patting the chicken thoroughly dry with paper towels before applying the spice mixture is a crucial step. This ensures the spices adhere beautifully and helps achieve a more desirable skin texture, especially if you opt for a quick broil at the end.
GARLIC & ONION: These foundational aromatics are key to infusing deep, savory flavors into your chicken. We use both minced garlic for the spice rub and whole garlic cloves, along with chunks of onion, to stuff inside the chicken cavity. Stuffing the cavity allows these flavors to permeate the meat from the inside out as the chicken cooks under pressure, contributing significantly to its overall succulence and taste. The combination creates a rich, fragrant backdrop for the chicken’s natural flavors.
SPICES & HERBS: Our signature blend for this rotisserie chicken includes Italian seasoning, oregano, paprika, a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick (optional), salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a classic, well-rounded flavor that is both comforting and delicious. However, one of the joys of cooking is customization! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. Thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, or even a Mediterranean-inspired za’atar blend would work wonderfully. Pre-made rubs or spice mixes are also excellent time-savers that can add unique dimensions of flavor. For a fresh, vibrant finish, we love garnishing the cooked chicken with fresh herbs just before serving.
LEMON: Lemon is more than just a garnish here; it’s a vital component. The acidity from fresh lemon juice helps to tenderize the chicken meat, ensuring it’s incredibly moist. By juicing half a lemon into the Instant Pot and then stuffing the squeezed lemon halves, along with additional slices, into the chicken’s cavity, you allow its bright, citrusy notes to infuse throughout the cooking process. This adds a delightful zing that beautifully complements the savory spices.
BROTH OR WATER: A pressure cooker requires liquid to build and maintain pressure, preventing burning and ensuring even cooking. While water will certainly do the job, using chicken broth (or even vegetable broth) is highly recommended. Broth adds another layer of flavor to the chicken and its drippings, which can then be used to create a flavorful gravy or pan sauce. Approximately one cup of liquid is usually sufficient for most whole chicken recipes in an Instant Pot.
How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the Instant Pot for Perfect Results
Follow these simple steps to prepare a mouth-watering Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor:
Prepare the Chicken: Start by carefully removing any giblets or neck from the chicken cavity. Trim away any excess fat and ensure no pin feathers remain. The most important step here is to thoroughly pat the entire chicken dry with paper towels. This creates a better surface for the spice rub to adhere to and contributes to a more appealing skin texture if you choose to crisp it later.
Create the Flavorful Spice Rub: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using for a hint of spice), salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a thick, aromatic paste. This paste is where much of the rotisserie flavor comes from, so ensure it’s well combined.
Apply the Rub and Stuff the Cavity: Generously spread the spice paste all over the exterior of the chicken, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Don’t forget to get some inside the cavity as well. Next, place the quartered lemon, whole garlic cloves, and onion chunks into the chicken’s cavity. These aromatics will steam and infuse the chicken with incredible flavor and moisture from the inside while it cooks.
Set up the Instant Pot: Place the trivet (the metal rack that comes with your Instant Pot) at the bottom of the inner pot. Pour 1 cup of water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot, along with the juice from half a lemon. This liquid is essential for creating the pressure needed for cooking and helps produce flavorful drippings.
Position the Chicken and Add Herbs: Carefully place the prepared chicken on top of the trivet, ensuring the breast side is facing up. Add the two sprigs of fresh rosemary into the pot, either tucked around the chicken or directly into the liquid. Close the Instant Pot lid and turn the sealing valve to the “Seal” position.
Pressure Cook: Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting on high pressure. For a 4-pound chicken, set the cooking time to 25 minutes. If your chicken is a different weight, adjust according to the guidelines provided below.
Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. This natural release (NR) period is crucial as it allows the chicken to rest and redistribute its juices, resulting in a more tender and moist bird. After 15 minutes, carefully perform a quick release (QR) by turning the valve to the “Venting” position to release any remaining pressure.
Check for Doneness: Open the lid and carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). If it’s not quite there, you can place it back in the Instant Pot for a few more minutes on high pressure, or proceed to crisping the skin as described below.
Crispy Skin (Optional but Recommended!): For that coveted crispy rotisserie skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet. Broil it in a preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, if you have an Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid, you can use that to crisp the skin directly in the pot. This step adds wonderful texture that truly completes the rotisserie experience.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and rested (if you skipped the broil), transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh rosemary, parsley, and additional lemon slices for an elegant presentation. Carve and serve warm with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your incredibly flavorful and effortlessly made Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken!
Expert Tips for Cooking a Perfect Homemade Rotisserie Chicken
Achieving a truly outstanding Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken is easy with a few key techniques. Here are some pro tips to ensure your chicken is always flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked:
- Know Your Chicken’s Weight: The cooking time for a whole chicken in the Instant Pot is directly dependent on its weight. A good rule of thumb is to cook for 6 minutes per pound on high pressure. Always weigh your chicken to accurately determine the cooking time. This precision is essential for ensuring the chicken is cooked through without becoming overcooked.
- Embrace Natural Pressure Release (NPR): After the cooking cycle finishes, resist the urge to immediately release the pressure. Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 15 minutes is crucial. This resting period allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in an exceptionally tender and moist chicken.
- Get That Crispy Skin: While the Instant Pot excels at tenderizing, it doesn’t create crispy skin on its own. If you desire a golden, crispy skin reminiscent of traditional rotisserie chicken, a quick finishing step is required. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil it for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the skin crisps up and turns golden brown. Alternatively, if you own an Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid, you can use its air fry or crisp function for a few minutes directly in the pot.
- Use a Trivet for Even Cooking: To ensure the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t sit directly in the liquid, always use the metal trivet (steamer rack) that came with your Instant Pot. This elevates the chicken, allowing the hot steam to circulate all around it, leading to consistent doneness and preventing the bottom from becoming soggy. You can find a suitable trivet here if yours is missing or you need a spare.
- Don’t Skimp on Patting Dry: We mentioned it in the instructions, but it bears repeating: patting the chicken completely dry before applying the spice rub is essential. Moisture on the skin creates steam and prevents the spices from forming a delicious crust. A dry surface means a more flavorful, adhered rub.
- Make Flavorful Gravy: Don’t discard those precious drippings at the bottom of the Instant Pot! They are packed with flavor. You can easily strain them, skim off excess fat, and thicken them on the sauté setting with a cornstarch slurry to create a quick and delicious gravy to serve alongside your chicken.
Optimal Cook Times for Your Instant Pot Whole Chicken
Getting the timing right is crucial for a perfectly cooked whole chicken in your Instant Pot. The general rule of thumb is 6 minutes of high-pressure cooking time per pound of chicken. This ensures that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature while remaining incredibly moist. Here’s a quick guide to commonly used cook times based on chicken weight:
- 3-pound chicken: Cook for 18 minutes on high pressure.
- 4-pound chicken: Cook for 24 minutes on high pressure.
- 5-pound chicken: Cook for 30 minutes on high pressure.
- 6-pound chicken: Cook for 36 minutes on high pressure.
Remember, these times are for the actual high-pressure cooking phase. Always account for the time it takes for your Instant Pot to come to pressure (which can vary based on the amount and temperature of liquid, and the chicken’s initial temperature), and the crucial natural pressure release time.
After the pressure has been released (natural release for 15 minutes, then quick release of any remaining pressure), it is absolutely essential to verify the chicken’s internal temperature with a reliable meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch any bone. The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
If your chicken has not reached 165 degrees F, don’t worry! Simply replace the Instant Pot lid, ensure the valve is set to the sealing position, and cook on high pressure for an additional 2 minutes for every 5 degrees below 165 degrees F it registers. For example, if your chicken is at 155 degrees F, you would cook it for another 4 minutes. This method allows you to safely bring the chicken up to temperature without overcooking the rest of the bird.
Delicious Pairings: What to Serve with Your Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken
This versatile Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making it perfect for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to a festive holiday meal. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to complete your meal:
BREAD: Complement the rich flavors of the chicken with some crusty bread. Warm rolls, soft pita bread, or a hearty slice of homemade Artisan Bread are excellent for soaking up any delicious juices or serving alongside the meal. A good piece of bread adds comfort and substance to your plate.
SIDE DISHES: Vegetable sides are always a great pairing for chicken. Some of our top recommendations include savory RoastedBalsamic Brussels Sprouts, earthy Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower, or these flavorful Italian Green Beans with Parmesan. For heartier options, consider creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or a classic rice pilaf to round out your meal.
SALAD: A fresh, crisp salad offers a wonderful contrast to the tender chicken. We love serving a vibrant salad with this type of meal. Some favorites include a bright Lemon Arugula Salad, a refreshing Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad, or a simple yet satisfying Easy Italian Salad. The freshness of the greens and a tangy dressing perfectly complement the rich chicken.
LEFTOVER USES: The beauty of a whole chicken is the potential for amazing leftovers! Shred any remaining chicken and use it in a variety of dishes throughout the week. It’s perfect for chicken tacos, quesadillas, chicken noodle soup, hearty casseroles, or even topping a pizza. This makes your initial cooking effort go a long way, providing delicious and quick meals for days to come.
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Instant Pot Rotisserie Chicken
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Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic coves, minced plus two whole garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoon oregano
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional for a hint of spice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 4 pound whole chicken, washed and patted dry
- 1 lemon, 1/2 juiced and 1/2 cut into quarters
- 1/2 onion, cut into small chunks
- 1 cup water, for the instant pot
- 4 sprigs rosemary, 2 for in the Instant pot and 2 for garnish
- parsley , for garnish
- Lemon slices , for garnish
Instructions
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Remove the chicken giblets and any excess fat or leftover pin feathers. Thoroughly pat the outside of the chicken dry with paper towels.
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In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and black pepper to form a paste.
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Generously spread the spice paste all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
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Stuff the lemon quarters, whole garlic cloves, and onion chunks into the chicken’s cavity.
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Place the trivet in the Instant Pot. Pour 1 cup of water or broth, along with the juice from half of a lemon, into the inner pot.
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Carefully place the chicken on the trivet, breast side up. Add 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary into the pot.
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Close the Instant Pot lid and set the sealing valve to the “Seal” position.
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Pressure cook on high pressure for 25 minutes (for a 4lb chicken; adjust based on weight).
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Once done, allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
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If you desire crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes, or use an Instant Pot air fryer lid until golden and crisp.
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Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reads 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) in the thickest part. Serve warm, garnished with fresh rosemary, parsley, and lemon slices.
Notes
- Feel free to customize your spice blend with other favorites like Cajun, Tuscan, or poultry seasoning for a different flavor profile.
- A dry rub can be used instead of the paste for a different texture and flavor.
- For an extra kick of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes with the spice rub.
- Always use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) in its thickest part.
- Store any cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It’s fantastic for meal prep!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.