How To Cook Chicken In Instant Pot Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Cooking chicken in an Instant Pot using the slow cooker function offers a unique combination of convenience and flavor. Unlike traditional stovetop or oven methods, the slow cooker mode allows the chicken to cook gently over several hours, resulting in tender, juicy meat that practically falls off the bone. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or a cozy family meal, the Instant Pot’s slow cooker mode transforms ordinary chicken into a succulent dish infused with rich flavors. Beyond convenience, this method reduces the likelihood of overcooking, ensures even heat distribution, and frees up your time for other tasks in the kitchen. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from cooking times to troubleshooting, making sure you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.

How Long To Cook Chicken In Instant Pot Slow Cooker

Cooking times in the slow cooker function of the Instant Pot vary based on the cut and size of the chicken, as well as whether you’re cooking on a low or high setting:

• Whole chicken: 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. A 4-5 pound bird will generally fall in this range.
• Bone-in chicken breasts: 4-6 hours on low, 2-3 hours on high.
• Boneless chicken breasts: 3-4 hours on low, 1.5-2.5 hours on high.
• Chicken thighs or drumsticks: 4-6 hours on low, 2-3 hours on high.

The slow cooking process allows connective tissues to break down gradually, yielding a tender texture without the risk of drying out, which is a common problem when using high-heat methods.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Properly cooked chicken is both safe and flavorful. Here’s how to ensure it’s ready:

1. Internal temperature: The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
2. Texture: Properly slow-cooked chicken should be tender but not mushy. Bone-in pieces should release easily from the bone.
3. Juices: When pierced with a fork or knife, the juices should run clear, not pink.

Avoid relying solely on cooking times, as factors like chicken size, the specific Instant Pot model, and ambient temperature can affect doneness.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a basic foundation for slow-cooked chicken, which you can customize according to flavor preferences:

• Chicken: Whole, bone-in, or boneless breasts/thighs
• Liquid: ½-1 cup of chicken broth, water, or a flavorful sauce (e.g., tomato, cream-based, or wine)
• Aromatics: Onion, garlic, leeks, or shallots
• Vegetables (optional): Carrots, celery, potatoes, bell peppers
• Herbs and spices: Salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, paprika, cumin, or your preferred blend
• Acid (optional): Lemon juice or vinegar for a bright flavor

These ingredients work synergistically in the slow cooker, allowing the chicken to absorb flavors gradually.

How To Cook Chicken In Instant Pot Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry to ensure the seasonings adhere properly. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your chosen spices.
2. Add liquid and aromatics: Pour broth or sauce into the Instant Pot slow cooker insert. Add onions, garlic, and other aromatics.
3. Place the chicken: Position the chicken in the insert, ensuring it is partially submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
4. Select the slow cook setting: Choose either low or high depending on your timing preferences.
5. Cook and monitor: Let the chicken cook until tender and fully cooked. Avoid lifting the lid frequently, as this releases heat and prolongs cooking.
6. Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. The juices can be reduced for a quick pan sauce if desired.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with the Instant Pot, slow cooking can present challenges:

• Dry chicken: Usually caused by overcooking. Use the recommended times and ensure enough liquid is present.
• Undercooked chicken: Often due to large pieces or a low cooking temperature. Always check with a thermometer.
• Watery sauce: Slow cooking produces liquid from both the chicken and added broth. Reduce on the stove or blend with a thickener like cornstarch.
• Odd flavors: Insufficient seasoning or overuse of acidic ingredients can affect taste. Balance herbs, spices, and acids carefully.

Expert Tips

• Layer flavors: Sear chicken or sauté aromatics before slow cooking for a deeper flavor profile.
• Use whole vegetables strategically: Large chunks of potatoes or carrots maintain texture better than finely diced ones.
• Don’t overfill: Fill the Instant Pot no more than two-thirds full for optimal heat circulation.
• Reserve salt: Add some salt toward the end of cooking to prevent over-seasoning, especially when using broth.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. If your Instant Pot doesn’t have a slow cooker function, you can use:

• Oven baking: Cook at 275-300°F for 2-3 hours, covered, until tender.
• Stovetop simmering: Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven over low heat, adding liquid and covering, stirring occasionally.
• Traditional slow cooker: The same times and liquids will work, with the added benefit of portability.

The key is low, steady heat over time to achieve tender results.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating in a slow cooker preserves moisture and flavor:

1. Transfer leftover chicken and sauce to the slow cooker.
2. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying.
3. Heat on low for 1-2 hours or until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
4. Avoid high heat for extended periods, as this can make the chicken dry.

FAQs

Can I Cook Frozen Chicken In An Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot using the pressure cooking function. However, if using the slow cooker function, it is recommended to thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

How Long Should I Cook Chicken In An Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

Cooking time depends on the size of the chicken and the cooking method. For bone-in chicken breasts or thighs on the slow cooker setting, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For pressure cooking, chicken breasts usually take 8-12 minutes, while thighs take 10-15 minutes.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Chicken In An Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

Yes, adding liquid is essential for both pressure cooking and slow cooking in the Instant Pot. At least 1 cup of water, broth, or sauce is needed for pressure cooking, while slow cooking benefits from ½ to 1 cup to prevent drying out and enhance flavor.

Can I Use The Same Recipe For Both Instant Pot Pressure Cooking And Slow Cooking?

You can often adapt recipes, but cooking times and liquid requirements differ. Slow cooking generally requires longer cooking times and less liquid evaporation, while pressure cooking needs precise liquid amounts to avoid burning.

How Can I Make Chicken Tender And Juicy In An Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

To keep chicken tender, avoid overcooking, use bone-in cuts for more flavor, and add a small amount of fat or broth. For pressure cooking, use natural release to allow the meat to rest and retain juices. For slow cooking, maintain a low consistent temperature.

Is It Safe To Cook Chicken From Frozen In The Instant Pot?

Yes, the Instant Pot is designed to safely cook frozen chicken under pressure, ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid using the slow cooker function with fully frozen chicken to prevent uneven cooking.

Can I Cook Chicken With Vegetables In The Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. Layer denser vegetables like carrots or potatoes at the bottom, place chicken on top, and add the required liquid. Cooking times may need slight adjustments depending on the size of the chicken and vegetables.

Do I Need To Sear Chicken Before Using The Instant Pot Slow Cooker Function?

Searing is optional for slow cooking but recommended if you want enhanced flavor and a golden crust. Use the ’Sauté’ mode on the Instant Pot before switching to slow cook mode for best results.

How Do I Prevent Chicken From Becoming Dry In The Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

Avoid overcooking, maintain sufficient liquid, and consider cooking on low heat rather than high. Bone-in cuts also help retain moisture, and resting the meat after cooking allows juices to redistribute.

Can I Cook A Whole Chicken In The Instant Pot Slow Cooker?

Yes, a whole chicken can be cooked. For slow cooking, place it breast side down with enough liquid at the bottom. For pressure cooking, ensure the chicken fits comfortably in the pot and use trivet for even cooking. Adjust cooking times according to the chicken’s weight.