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Lavender Honey Roasted Chicken

Instant Pot Whole Chicken with Honey and Herbs de Provence

This Instant Pot Whole Chicken is coated in a buttery honey and Herbs de Provence mixture, pressure cooked until incredibly juicy, then finished under the broiler for beautifully golden, crispy skin. It's an easy, flavorful dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday family meals.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Pressure Release 15 minutes
Total Time 54 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 468

Ingredients
  

Chicken
Honey Herb Butter
For the Instant Pot
Optional Gravy
  • Cooking drippings
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp cold water

Equipment

  • 6-Quart Instant Pot: Large enough to comfortably fit a 4 to 5 pound whole chicken while pressure cooking
  • Instant Pot Trivet: Keeps the chicken elevated above the cooking liquid for even cooking
  • Small mixing bowl: For combining the honey herb butter
  • Instant-read thermometer: The easiest way to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked
  • Baking sheet: Used for broiling the chicken after pressure cooking to crisp the skin

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels and remove any giblets from the cavity. Season the cavity and outside of the chicken with the salt and black pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter, honey, French seasoning, garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest until smooth.
  3. Carefully loosen the skin over the breasts and thighs using your fingers. Spread about two-thirds of the butter mixture underneath the skin, then rub the remaining butter over the outside of the chicken.
  4. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. Arrange the lemon halves and rosemary sprigs on the trivet, then place the chicken breast-side up on top.
  5. Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 6 minutes per pound (see Notes for cooking chart).
  6. Allow a 15-minute Natural Release, then carefully release any remaining pressure. Check that the breast reaches 165°F and the thighs reach 175 to 185°F.
  7. Arrange an oven rack in the center position and preheat the broiler. Carefully transfer the chicken to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with an additional drizzle of honey if desired for extra color, then broil for 4 to 8 minutes, watching closely, until the skin is golden brown and lightly crisp.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
  9. For optional gravy, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan or use the Instant Pot on Sauté mode. Whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir into the simmering drippings until thickened. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • French Seasoning Substitute: Substitute an equal amount of your favorite Herbs de Provence seasoning.
  • Cooking Time Guide:
    • 3 lb chicken: 18 minutes
    • 4 lb chicken: 24 minutes
    • 4½ lb chicken: 27 minutes
    • 5 lb chicken: 30 minutes
    • Always allow a 15-minute Natural Release.
  • Don't Skip the Broiler: Pressure cooking produces incredibly juicy chicken, but broiling gives the skin the crispy, golden finish of a traditional roasted chicken.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings): 468 calories, 31g fat, 8g carbs, 39g protein, 0g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.