Instant Pot “Rotisserie” Chicken

Just like mom used to make, but a whole lot quicker!

Who doesn’t love rotisserie chicken? The aroma of a perfectly seasoned, juicy bird roasting to perfection, resulting in tender, pull-apart, chicken makes my mouth water. I can almost smell it as I’m writing this!

Time for a pop quiz. Imagine this: It’s 5 PM in the middle of the week. You are low on funds. The only thing in the freezer is a frozen chicken and some frozen vegetables (It’s hypothetical. Stick with me. I’m going somewhere with this.) What do you do?

• Order DoorDash and whip out the credit card to pay.
• Thaw the chicken in the microwave. (I’m not judging you, but please don’t do this).
• Eat cereal (another viable option, but please bear with me. I have a point).
• Grab your instant pot and cook that chicken like the kitchen ninja I know you are. (ding ding ding!)

Related: 9 Beginner Instant Pot Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

Why We Love this Rotisserie Chicken

Cooking rotisserie chicken in an Instant Pot offers several advantages. Firstly, it saves you time. Instead of spending hours waiting for a chicken to roast in the oven, the Instant Pot pressure cooker can cook a whole chicken in a fraction of the time. This is particularly handy when you need a quick and satisfying meal on a busy weeknight.

The Instant Pot helps to lock in moisture, resulting in a tender and succulent chicken. The pressure cooking process infuses the bird with flavors, making every bite bursting with deliciousness. Additionally, the Instant Pot allows you to customize the seasonings and spices to your liking, ensuring a perfectly seasoned ‘rotisserie’ chicken every time.

Cooking rotisserie chicken in an Instant Pot is a healthier alternative to store-bought rotisserie chickens. By using fresh ingredients and controlling the cooking process, you can avoid the excessive sodium and preservatives often found in pre-packaged options. Plus, you can use organic or free-range chicken for an even healthier meal.

Health Benefits of Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken, especially when cooked in an Instant Pot, offers various health benefits. Firstly, chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It is also low in saturated fat, making it a healthier option compared to red meats.

Additionally, rotisserie chicken cooked in an Instant Pot retains its natural juices, resulting in a moist and tender meat without the need for added fats or oils. This makes it a healthier choice for those watching their calorie intake or following a balanced diet.

Furthermore, chicken is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and zinc. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system, promoting cell growth, and aiding in energy metabolism.

By enjoying rotisserie chicken in moderation and incorporating it into a well-balanced diet, you can reap its nutritional benefits and savor its delicious flavors guilt-free.

Rotisserie Chicken in an Instant Pot Versus Other Methods

While traditional rotisserie chicken cooked over an open fire or in a specialized rotisserie oven has its charm, the Instant Pot offers a convenient and efficient alternative. Here’s a comparison of Instant Pot ‘rotisserie’ chicken with other cooking methods:

• Oven-Roasted Chicken: Cooking a whole chicken in the oven can take hours, requiring frequent basting and monitoring. In contrast, the Instant Pot pressure cooker can cook a whole chicken in a fraction of the time, saving you precious hours in the kitchen.
• Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken: While store-bought rotisserie chicken offers convenience, it often contains high levels of sodium, preservatives, and artificial flavors. By cooking your own ‘rotisserie’ chicken in an Instant Pot, you have full control over the ingredients and can enjoy a healthier and more flavorful meal.
• Grilled Chicken: Grilling chicken imparts a smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. However, it requires outdoor grilling equipment and can be time-consuming. The Instant Pot provides a quick and easy alternative, allowing you to enjoy juicy and tender ‘rotisserie’ chicken without the need for a grill.
• Slow Cooker Chicken: Slow cooking chicken results in tender and flavorful meat, but it requires several hours of cooking time. The Instant Pot offers the same results in a fraction of the time, making it a more convenient option for busy individuals.

While each cooking method has its own merits, the Instant Pot rotisserie chicken stands out for its time-saving convenience and delicious results. With an Instant Pot, you can enjoy the magic of rotisserie chicken any day of the week, even when time and funds are limited.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Rotisserie Chicken Every Time

To achieve the perfect rotisserie chicken in your Instant Pot, follow these tips and tricks:

• Season generously: Rub the chicken with a mixture of herbs, spices, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to season the cavity as well.
• Use the trivet: Placing the chicken on a trivet inside the Instant Pot keeps it elevated from the bottom, allowing the heat to circulate evenly and preventing it from sticking.
• Add liquid: Pour a cup of chicken broth, water, or your preferred cooking liquid into the Instant Pot. This helps to create steam, which aids in the cooking process and prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Opt for a natural pressure release: After the chicken is cooked, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 15 minutes. This helps to retain the juices and ensures a moist and tender bird.
• Broil for crispy skin: If you desire a crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and broil it in the oven for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

By following these tips, you can achieve a perfectly cooked ‘rotisserie’ chicken with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, all done in your trusty Instant Pot.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

If you find yourself with leftovers from your Instant Pot ‘rotisserie’ chicken feast, it’s important to store and reheat them properly to maintain their quality and taste.

To store cooked chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator, where it can be kept for up to four days.

When reheating ‘rotisserie’ chicken, there are a few methods you can choose from. Here are three popular options:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat it in the oven for about 20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat it on medium power in 30-second intervals until it is heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook it for a few minutes on each side until it is heated through.

Remember to check the internal temperature of the reheated chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating that it is safe to eat.

Serving Suggestions and Recipe Ideas Using Rotisserie Chicken

Once you have your delicious Instant Pot rotisserie chicken ready, the possibilities for serving and recipe ideas are endless. Here are a few suggestions to get your creative culinary juices flowing:

• Classic Chicken Dinner: Serve the ‘rotisserie’ chicken with a side of roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, and a fresh salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Try our Roasted Tuscan Vegetables or these Greek Roasted Potatoes on the side!
• Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for flavorful tacos. Top with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. You can try out our Skinny Chicken Tacos with this instant pot chicken recipe!
• Chicken Salad: Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite salad dressing for a refreshing and protein-packed salad. We love adding it to the Healthiest Greek Salad.
• Chicken Soup: Use the leftover chicken to make a comforting and nourishing soup. Add vegetables, noodles, and herbs for a hearty meal. We’ve got a great chicken noodle soup recipe that this instant pot “rotisserie” chicken would be perfect for!
• Chicken Quesadillas: Layer the shredded chicken with cheese between tortillas and pan-fry until golden and crispy. Serve with salsa and sour cream for a tasty snack or meal. Try it in this Healthy Black Bean Quesadilla recipe for some additional protein.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment and get creative with your ‘rotisserie’ chicken leftovers. The possibilities are endless!

We also love using this chicken in our Skinny White Chicken Enchiladas (pictured above)!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my chicken is cooked through?

A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken leg or thigh, without touching the bone. Internal temperature should be 165 degrees F. Another test is to wiggle the leg of the chicken – if it is loose and moves easily, it’s done.

Q: What if I check my chicken and it isn’t quite done?

A: This rarely happens if your chicken is 5 pounds or under (see next FAQ). It depends on how close you are to the correct internal temperature. If it’s within 10 degrees, you can return the chicken to the instant pot and place the lid over the top. Carryover cooking should continue for about 10 minutes and raise to proper temperature. Also, keep in mind that if you’re broiling it to brown and crisp the skin, the internal temperature will continue to rise.

Return the chicken to the instant pot and continue pressure cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes. NOTE: You’ll have to return pot to pressure and then allow another 5 to 10 minutes of natural release before venting and removing the chicken.

Or, heat the oven to 350 degrees F, and continue cooking the chicken, checking the temperature every 10 minutes or so.

Q: What are the guidelines for cooking a frozen chicken? How do I know how long to cook it in the Instant Pot?

A: There are a few guidelines for cooking chicken in an Instant Pot, both from frozen or fresh:

Frozen, whole chicken – 13 minutes per pound, plus 15 minutes natural pressure release

Fresh, whole chicken – 6 minutes per pound, plus 15 minutes natural pressure release

We can’t wait to hear about what you thought of this recipe in the comment section! Enjoy!

Loved this Instant Pot “Rotisserie” Chicken dish? Hungry for more? Let us know! Leave a comment below.

If you enjoyed this yummy chicken recipe, we’ve got plenty more where that came from! Check out these tasty options next:

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