Name: Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Recipe
Ingredients: 1 Whole Frozen Chicken (3-4 lbs): The star of the show! Using a frozen chicken is not only convenient but also yields incredibly moist results in the Instant Pot. Opt for a 3-4 pound chicken to ensure it cooks evenly within the specified time. When selecting your frozen chicken, consider factors like quality and sourcing. Choosing organic or free-range chicken can elevate both the flavor and nutritional value of your meal. Don’t worry about thawing – the Instant Pot works its magic directly on the frozen bird, saving you precious prep time. The frozen state actually helps to keep the chicken incredibly moist during pressure cooking, preventing it from drying out as easily as a thawed chicken might.; 1 Cup Chicken Broth or Water: Liquid is essential for pressure cooking, as it creates the steam needed to build pressure and cook the chicken efficiently. Chicken broth is highly recommended as it infuses the chicken with extra flavor and richness. Low-sodium chicken broth is a healthier option, allowing you to control the salt content of the final dish. If you don’t have broth on hand, water will certainly work in a pinch, but broth truly elevates the taste. Consider using homemade chicken broth if you have some stored away for an even deeper flavor profile. The liquid not only aids in cooking but also creates a flavorful base in the pot that can be used to make a delicious gravy later on.; 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil serves multiple purposes in this recipe. First, it adds a touch of richness and flavor to the chicken. Secondly, it helps the spices adhere to the frozen chicken and penetrate as it cooks. While it might seem counterintuitive to drizzle oil on frozen chicken, it actually works wonders in distributing flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a great choice for its robust flavor and health benefits, but you can also use light olive oil or another neutral cooking oil if preferred. In a pinch, melted butter can also be used for a richer flavor.; 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a convenient and potent garlic flavor that complements chicken beautifully. It’s readily available and evenly distributes flavor across the chicken. While fresh garlic is fantastic, garlic powder works particularly well in this recipe for its ease of use and consistent flavor, especially when working with a frozen chicken. The heat of the Instant Pot intensifies the garlic powder, creating a savory aroma and taste.; 1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder delivers a concentrated onion flavor that enhances the overall savory profile of the chicken. It’s a pantry staple and blends seamlessly with the other spices. Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that rounds out the spice blend perfectly.; 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme: Dried thyme adds a classic herbaceous note that is synonymous with roasted chicken. Its earthy and slightly lemony flavor perfectly complements chicken and the other spices. Dried thyme is readily available and retains its flavor well during cooking. If you have fresh thyme on hand, you can certainly use it – simply use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme sprigs in place of the dried thyme.; Salt and Pepper to Taste: Salt and pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients. Season generously to taste, remembering that seasoning is crucial for a flavorful final dish. Kosher salt is a great choice for its even seasoning and less salty taste compared to table salt. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its bolder flavor. Don’t be afraid to season both the top and cavity of the chicken as best you can, even while frozen, to ensure even flavor throughout.

Ingredients

Scale

1 Whole Frozen Chicken (3–4 lbs): The star of the show! Using a frozen chicken is not only convenient but also yields incredibly moist results in the Instant Pot. Opt for a 3-4 pound chicken to ensure it cooks evenly within the specified time. When selecting your frozen chicken, consider factors like quality and sourcing. Choosing organic or free-range chicken can elevate both the flavor and nutritional value of your meal. Don’t worry about thawing – the Instant Pot works its magic directly on the frozen bird, saving you precious prep time. The frozen state actually helps to keep the chicken incredibly moist during pressure cooking, preventing it from drying out as easily as a thawed chicken might.

1 Cup Chicken Broth or Water: Liquid is essential for pressure cooking, as it creates the steam needed to build pressure and cook the chicken efficiently. Chicken broth is highly recommended as it infuses the chicken with extra flavor and richness. Low-sodium chicken broth is a healthier option, allowing you to control the salt content of the final dish. If you don’t have broth on hand, water will certainly work in a pinch, but broth truly elevates the taste. Consider using homemade chicken broth if you have some stored away for an even deeper flavor profile. The liquid not only aids in cooking but also creates a flavorful base in the pot that can be used to make a delicious gravy later on.

1 Tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil serves multiple purposes in this recipe. First, it adds a touch of richness and flavor to the chicken. Secondly, it helps the spices adhere to the frozen chicken and penetrate as it cooks. While it might seem counterintuitive to drizzle oil on frozen chicken, it actually works wonders in distributing flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is a great choice for its robust flavor and health benefits, but you can also use light olive oil or another neutral cooking oil if preferred. In a pinch, melted butter can also be used for a richer flavor.

1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a convenient and potent garlic flavor that complements chicken beautifully. It’s readily available and evenly distributes flavor across the chicken. While fresh garlic is fantastic, garlic powder works particularly well in this recipe for its ease of use and consistent flavor, especially when working with a frozen chicken. The heat of the Instant Pot intensifies the garlic powder, creating a savory aroma and taste.

1 Teaspoon Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder delivers a concentrated onion flavor that enhances the overall savory profile of the chicken. It’s a pantry staple and blends seamlessly with the other spices. Onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that rounds out the spice blend perfectly.

1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme: Dried thyme adds a classic herbaceous note that is synonymous with roasted chicken. Its earthy and slightly lemony flavor perfectly complements chicken and the other spices. Dried thyme is readily available and retains its flavor well during cooking. If you have fresh thyme on hand, you can certainly use it – simply use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme sprigs in place of the dried thyme.

Salt and Pepper to Taste: Salt and pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients. Season generously to taste, remembering that seasoning is crucial for a flavorful final dish. Kosher salt is a great choice for its even seasoning and less salty taste compared to table salt. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its bolder flavor. Don’t be afraid to season both the top and cavity of the chicken as best you can, even while frozen, to ensure even flavor throughout.

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Place the frozen chicken in the Instant Pot: Carefully remove the frozen chicken from its packaging. There’s no need to thaw it! Place the frozen chicken directly into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Ensure the chicken is placed in a way that allows for even cooking. If your Instant Pot came with a trivet, you can place the chicken on the trivet if you prefer, although it’s not strictly necessary for a whole chicken. The trivet can help lift the chicken slightly, but direct contact with the pot is perfectly fine and often results in slightly more flavorful drippings for gravy.

Pour in chicken broth or water: Measure out 1 cup of chicken broth or water and pour it into the bottom of the Instant Pot, around the chicken. The liquid is crucial for creating steam and building pressure, which is essential for pressure cooking. Ensure the liquid is poured into the pot itself, not directly onto the chicken, to avoid washing off the spices in the next step. Double-check that you have at least the minimum amount of liquid recommended by your Instant Pot manufacturer for safe pressure cooking.

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken: Take 1 tablespoon of olive oil and drizzle it evenly over the top of the frozen chicken. The olive oil will help the spices adhere to the chicken and add a touch of richness. Try to distribute the oil as evenly as possible over the surface of the frozen chicken. This step helps to create a slightly more appealing skin texture, although the skin of pressure-cooked chicken will not be crispy like roasted chicken.

Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper: Now, generously sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Try to distribute the spices as evenly as possible, covering all sides of the chicken that you can reach. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s what will give your chicken its delicious flavor. You can gently pat the spices onto the frozen chicken to help them adhere better.

Close the lid and set the valve to sealing: Securely place the Instant Pot lid onto the pot, ensuring it’s properly sealed. Then, check the pressure release valve and make sure it is set to the “Sealing” position. This is crucial for pressure to build up inside the Instant Pot. Double-check that the lid is locked and the valve is in the correct position before proceeding to the next step.

Select “Pressure Cook” and adjust the time to 60 minutes: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function. Adjust the cooking time to 60 minutes. This cooking time is specifically calibrated for a 3-4 pound frozen chicken. If your chicken is slightly larger or smaller, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but 60 minutes is a good starting point for this size. Ensure the pressure level is set to “High Pressure” if your Instant Pot model allows you to choose.

Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure: After the 60-minute pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes. This means simply letting the Instant Pot sit undisturbed as the pressure gradually decreases on its own. Natural Pressure Release (NPR) is recommended for chicken as it helps to keep the meat moist and tender. After 15 minutes of NPR, carefully perform a Quick Pressure Release (QPR) by manually moving the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position. Be cautious as steam will be rapidly released. Use a utensil or oven mitt to move the valve and keep your face and hands away from the steam vent.

Check the temperature – it should reach 165°F (75°C). Shred or serve whole: Once all the pressure is released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Using a meat thermometer, insert the probe into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should read at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. If the temperature is below 165°F, close the lid, reseal the valve, and pressure cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, then check the temperature again. Once cooked through, you can shred the chicken directly in the Instant Pot using two forks, or carefully remove the whole chicken to a cutting board for carving or serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: One Normal Portion
Calories: 220
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 30g