Instant Pot Herbed Chicken Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
I’ve never cooked an entire chicken in the Instant Pot but it was so easy and quick. This entire recipe took me 30 minutes to make. I love a classic comfort meal like this especially during this bomb cyclone on the West Coast.
Ingredients
4lb young chicken giblets removed
2 small lemons halved
2 fresh thyme stem
1 fresh sage stem
2 tsp Herbes de Provence
2 tsp dried tarragon
Small handful of whole garlic cloves
1 small yellow onion sliced
3 cups low sodium chicken stock
Sea salt & cracked pepper
10-15 gold potatoes halved
3 tbsp salted butter
2 tbsp sour cream
1/2 cup half and half
Optional: Add chopped chives
2 broccolini stalks parboil until tender
Instructions
•Whole chicken: Wash and pat dry chicken. Separate the chicken from the skin using your hand or spoon. Add sea salt, pepper, Herbes de Provence, and tarragon. Lightly squeeze lemon juice from lemons in pot. Place all halved lemons in cavity. Add 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth into Instant Pot. Place fresh thyme and sage on top of chicken before closing the Instant Pot. Set at pressure cook for 27 minutes. Let natural release.
•Mashed potatoes: Boil 10-15 halved gold potatoes in dutch oven until tender. Drain water then start mashing potatoes. Add salt, pepper, butter, half and half, sour cream, and chives. Stir all of the gradients together.
•Gravy: Use a cup or two of chicken broth then add to a brown gravy powder (McCormicks). I used my frother to whisk all of the gravy ingredients together.
Enjoy 👩🏻🍳✨
Cooking a whole chicken in the Instant Pot is not only quick but also remarkably easy. This method locks in flavors, ensuring the chicken remains tender and juicy. The use of herbs like thyme and sage, combined with the zesty addition of lemon, enhances the flavor profile significantly. Mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, providing a creamy and comforting side. To achieve the perfect consistency, it’s essential to mash them while they're still hot and add ingredients like butter and half and half. For a flavor boost, don't hesitate to mix in some sour cream or a sprinkle of chives. Gravy can elevate your dish even further. Using a combination of chicken broth and brown gravy powder simplifies the process and ensures a rich, savory sauce without much fuss. Make sure to whisk it well for a smooth texture! This meal is especially satisfying as temperatures drop, providing a warm hug in a bowl during chilly evenings. Enjoy this recipe on cold nights or share it at gatherings for a delightful comfort food experience.