Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare? Look no further than this Instant Pot Whole Blackened Chicken! In just 40 minutes, you can transform a humble whole chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece, perfectly seasoned and succulent. Imagine juicy, tender meat enveloped in a crispy, spicy crust, all while you sit back and relax. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or simply craving a delightful weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to create this culinary delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Whole chicken
- Blackening seasoning
- Olive oil
- Lemon
- Garlic
- Vegetables (carrots, potatoes)
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: a whole chicken, blackening seasoning, olive oil, a lemon, garlic, and your choice of vegetables such as carrots and potatoes.
- Prepare the chicken by removing any giblets from the cavity and patting it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the blackening seasoning with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to create a paste. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Rub the blackening seasoning paste all over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated on all sides, including under the skin where possible for maximum flavor.
- Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the seasoned chicken. You can also place the squeezed lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken for added flavor.
- Peel and chop your vegetables into even-sized pieces. For carrots and potatoes, cut them into chunks that are similar in size to ensure even cooking.
- Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Once hot, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
- Carefully place the whole chicken into the Instant Pot, breast side down, and sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is browned. Use tongs to flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 4-5 minutes.
- Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add the chopped vegetables to the bottom of the pot, creating a bed for the chicken.
- Pour in 1 cup of water or chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance the flavor.
- Place the seared chicken on top of the vegetables in the pot. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing.
- Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 25 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the blackened chicken alongside the cooked vegetables, garnishing with fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Whole Blackened Chicken!
Tips
- Choose the Right Seasoning: Adjust the amount of blackening seasoning to suit your spice tolerance. If you're sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: For a beautifully crisp skin, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before applying the seasoning. This step helps achieve that coveted golden-brown finish.
- Sear for Maximum Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the chicken enhances the flavor and adds a delicious depth to your dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon can significantly enhance the flavor of your chicken. Opt for fresh over dried whenever possible for the best results.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can also work wonderfully!
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few lemon wedges can add a beautiful touch to your dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
