Instant Pot Garlic Pesto Whole Chicken

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Juicy, tender, and infused with vibrant flavors, this Instant Pot garlic pesto whole chicken is the perfect centerpiece for a weekend dinner. With minimal prep and the magic of an Instant Pot, you’ll have a perfectly cooked, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare.

a whole roasted chicken with pesto sauce on top

Table of Contents

Chef’s Tips

Even seasoning: Rub the chicken thoroughly with salt, pepper, and basil to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Extra moisture: Add lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the pesto for an extra tangy punch.
Crispy finish: Broiling the chicken after pressure cooking gives the skin a beautiful golden color and irresistible crispiness.
Enhance tenderness: For even juicier chicken, marinate it in buttermilk for a few hours before cooking.
Custom spice: Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the seasoning for a spicy twist.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (3–4 pounds): A fresh whole chicken, giblets removed.
1 head garlic, halved: Infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors.
1 lemon, halved: Adds a tangy brightness to the chicken.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
1/2 tsp dried basil: Adds an earthy, herby note to the dish.
1 cup water: Used for pressure cooking.
1 cup prepared basil pesto: The star of the dish, adding vibrant, herby richness.

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Remove the giblets from the chicken’s cavity. Stuff the chicken with the halved garlic and lemon. Season the outside generously with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
Set up the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. Place the chicken on the trivet and lower it into the pot.
Pressure cook: Cover the Instant Pot with the lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Cook on “manual” or “pressure cook” for 25 minutes.
Release pressure: Allow the pressure to naturally release for 15 minutes, then perform a quick release. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone.
Broil for crispiness: Preheat the oven to broil. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Broil for 5–10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Add the pesto: Spread the basil pesto over the chicken. For extra flavor, serve with additional pesto on the side.
Serve: Slice the chicken and serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

a raw whole chicken placed in instant pot with an orange wedge stuffed in it

whole roasted chicken inside an instant pot

FAQs

Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken pieces like thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time in the Instant Pot to about 10–12 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.

What can I pair with this dish?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or zoodles.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of pesto to keep the chicken moist.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

cooked whole chicken with pesto sauce on top and a slide taken out to show details of the juicy meat

This Instant Pot garlic pesto whole chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner.