How to Cook Rotisserie Chicken Instant Pot

You know that feeling when you walk into a kitchen and the aroma of perfectly seasoned rotisserie chicken fills the air?

With the Instant Pot, you can achieve that same succulent, flavorful chicken right in your own home, and it's easier than you might think.

From selecting the ideal chicken to the final carving and serving, mastering the art of cooking rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot is within your reach.

Let's dive in and unlock the secrets to achieving tender, juicy rotisserie chicken that will have your family and friends coming back for more.

Key Takeaways

• Select a fresh, whole chicken weighing around 3 to 4 pounds and consider brining it for flavor and juiciness.
• Rub a seasoning blend onto the chicken, tuck the wings and tie the legs together, then season inside and out with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried herbs.
• Understand the safety features and cooking settings of your Instant Pot, and use the recommended amount of liquid.
• Truss the chicken, apply a flavorful rub or marinade, and pressure cook it with a flavorful seasoning. Then, allow for natural release, crisp the skin under the broiler, and carve the chicken before serving and enjoying the meal.

Selecting the Right Chicken

When choosing a chicken for cooking rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot, start with a fresh, whole chicken. The size of the chicken is crucial for ensuring even cooking. Aim for a chicken that weighs around 3 to 4 pounds. This size is ideal as it allows the chicken to cook through evenly without becoming dry or overcooked.

Next, consider brining the chicken to infuse it with flavor and keep it juicy. There are various brine options to enhance the taste of your rotisserie chicken. A simple brine of water, salt, and sugar can work wonders. You can also add herbs, spices, or citrus peels to the brine for extra flavor. Let the chicken soak in the brine for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, in the refrigerator. This process not only seasons the chicken from within but also helps it retain moisture during the cooking process.

Preparing the Seasoning Blend

To prepare the seasoning blend, start by gathering your favorite herbs and spices. When selecting your seasonings, consider various seasoning techniques and flavor options to create a well-balanced and flavorful blend. You might want to include options like paprika for a smoky undertone, garlic powder for a savory kick, and thyme for a subtle earthy note. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect flavor profile that suits your taste preferences.

Once you have chosen your herbs and spices, it's essential to focus on the seasoning application to ensure even distribution of flavors. To achieve this, consider using a small bowl to mix the seasonings thoroughly before applying them to the chicken. This will help to create a cohesive seasoning blend that evenly coats the chicken, resulting in a more consistent flavor throughout the dish.

Additionally, consider using your hands to rub the seasoning blend onto the chicken, ensuring that it adheres to the surface for maximum flavor infusion. By paying attention to these details, you can elevate the taste of your rotisserie chicken and impress your guests with a delicious, well-seasoned dish.

Trussing and Prepping the Chicken

Gathering your kitchen twine and poultry scissors, begin by trussing the chicken to ensure even cooking and a compact shape that fits well in the Instant Pot. To truss the chicken, start by tucking the wings underneath the bird and tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This trussing technique not only promotes even cooking but also enhances the chicken's presentation, giving it a uniform shape for a professional touch.

Once trussed, it's time to prep the chicken for seasoning. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres properly. Next, consider flavor infusion. For a classic rotisserie chicken flavor, generously season the chicken inside and out with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme and rosemary. This seasoning not only adds depth of flavor but also creates a beautiful golden brown color on the skin.

Trussing and prepping the chicken are essential steps that set the foundation for a perfectly cooked and flavorful rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot.

Setting Up the Instant Pot

First, ensure you understand the safety features of your Instant Pot.

Next, familiarize yourself with the various cooking settings available on the device.

Instant Pot Safety

When setting up your Instant Pot, ensure that all components are securely in place before beginning the cooking process. Instant Pot safety is paramount to prevent accidents and ensure successful pressure cooking.

Here are some essential safety tips to consider:

• Check the sealing ring to ensure it's properly positioned and free of any food particles that could prevent a proper seal.
• Always use the recommended amount of liquid in your Instant Pot when pressure cooking to avoid the risk of burning food or damaging the pot.
• When using natural release after pressure cooking, make sure to keep your hands and face away from the steam vent to prevent burns.

Following these safety measures will help you use your Instant Pot with confidence and peace of mind.

Understanding Cooking Settings

To ensure you are familiar with the cooking settings and to confidently set up your Instant Pot, it's important to understand the functions and options available. The Instant Pot offers various cooking settings that allow you to control cooking time and temperature to achieve the perfect results. Familiarizing yourself with these settings is crucial for mastering the art of cooking with an Instant Pot. Here's a table summarizing the essential cooking settings and options:

Cooking Setting	Description
Pressure Cook	Adjust cooking time and set the pressure level
Saute	Control the cooking temperature for browning or sauteing
Slow Cook	Set the cooking time and temperature for slow cooking

In addition to mastering the cooking settings, don't forget to explore Instant Pot accessories and proper maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Pressure Cooking the Chicken

Now it's time to talk about how pressure cooking the chicken in the Instant Pot can result in evenly cooked rotisserie chicken with moist and tender meat.

You'll love the convenience and speed of pressure cooking, as it helps to lock in the flavors and juices of the chicken, giving you a delicious end result.

Plus, with the Instant Pot, you can achieve that classic rotisserie-style texture without the need for a rotisserie oven.

Evenly Cooked Rotisserie Chicken

You'll want to pressure cook the rotisserie chicken to ensure it cooks evenly. Here's how to achieve perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken using your Instant Pot:

• Truss the Chicken: Before pressure cooking, truss the chicken using kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and a uniform shape.
• Rotisserie Seasoning: Apply a flavorful rub or marinade that complements the rotisserie technique. Consider a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs for an authentic rotisserie flavor.
• Proper Placement: When pressure cooking, ensure the chicken is placed on the trivet with a cup of liquid at the bottom of the pot. This helps create steam for pressure cooking and prevents the chicken from sitting in its juices, resulting in even cooking.

Moist and Tender Meat

Achieve moist and tender meat by pressure cooking the trussed rotisserie chicken in your Instant Pot with a flavorful seasoning and proper placement on the trivet. Before pressure cooking, consider using a brining technique to infuse the meat with moisture and flavor. A simple brine of salt, sugar, and water can work wonders.

Once brined, pat the chicken dry and season generously. When pressure cooking, ensure temperature control by using the appropriate setting for poultry. This will help maintain the meat's tenderness. Cooking under high pressure for the right amount of time is crucial.

Natural Release and Crisping

To achieve the perfect natural release and crisping of your rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot, ensure that the pressure valve is set to the sealing position before allowing the pressure to release naturally. This will help to lock in the natural juices and ensure that the skin crisps up beautifully.

Here's how to master the natural release and crisping process:

• Wait Patiently: Once the cooking time is complete, resist the urge to immediately release the pressure. Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for at least 10-15 minutes. This slow release will help the chicken to retain its natural juices and tenderness.
• Crisping in the Oven: After the natural release, carefully transfer the rotisserie chicken to a baking sheet and place it under the broiler for 5-10 minutes. This will help to achieve that perfect crispy skin that's characteristic of rotisserie chicken.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This will guarantee that it's both safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

Carving and Serving

After allowing the rotisserie chicken to rest for a few minutes, carefully carve it into slices or pieces for serving. To carve the chicken, start by removing the legs and wings, then slice the breast meat against the grain. For easy slicing, use a sharp carving knife and steady cutting board. Carving tips include using long, smooth strokes and allowing the knife to do the work. Remember to save the carcass for making a flavorful broth or soup later.

When it comes to serving suggestions, consider pairing the succulent rotisserie chicken with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes. The tender, juicy meat pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Additionally, you can use the leftover chicken in sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a quick and delicious meal.

As you serve the carved rotisserie chicken, garnish the platter with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor. Encourage your guests to help themselves to the mouthwatering chicken, and don't forget to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Frozen Chicken in the Instant Pot for Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, you can cook a frozen chicken in the Instant Pot for rotisserie chicken. Truss the chicken, season it with your homemade seasoning, set the Instant Pot pressure time, and don't forget to use the leftover juices for gravy.

Is It Necessary to Truss the Chicken Before Cooking It in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you should truss the chicken before cooking it in the Instant Pot. Trussing helps the chicken cook evenly and retains its shape. It's essential, especially when using a frozen chicken, to ensure even pressure cooking and flavorful results.

Can I Use a Homemade Seasoning Blend Instead of the Suggested One in the Article?

Yes, you can use a homemade seasoning blend for your rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot. It allows for flavor variations and gives you the freedom to tailor the taste to your preferences.

How Long Does It Take for the Instant Pot to Come to Pressure Before Cooking the Chicken?

Before cooking the rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot, it takes about 10-15 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. Once at pressure, the cooking time for the rotisserie chicken is approximately 20-25 minutes.

Can I Use the Leftover Juices From the Instant Pot to Make a Gravy for the Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, you can use the leftover juices from the Instant Pot to make a delicious gravy for your rotisserie chicken. The juices are packed with flavor and will enhance the taste of your dish.