When it comes to pressure cooking chicken in an Instant Pot, one of the most common questions is: how long should I set the timer for? The chicken setting on the Instant Pot is a pre-programmed function that is designed to perfectly cook chicken, but exactly how long does it take? The answer depends on a few factors.
What is the Chicken Function on Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a popular electric pressure cooker that has several built-in smart programs, including one specifically for cooking chicken. When you select the chicken function, the Instant Pot automatically sets the time and pressure level to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and comes out juicy and tender.
The chicken program is optimized for cooking bone-in chicken parts like breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or whole chickens. It takes into account the thickness of the meat and bones and adjusts the cook time accordingly. The chicken function brings the pot up to high pressure and maintains it for a set period of time before allowing the pressure to naturally release.
Because it’s an automated program, all you have to do is put the chicken in the pot, lock the lid, select the chicken function, and let the Instant Pot do the work. The smart programming eliminates any guesswork and adjusts the cooking time as needed for perfect results every time.
Default Chicken Setting Time
The default time for the chicken setting on the Instant Pot is 15 minutes. This means that once you press the chicken button, the display will automatically switch to 15 minutes as the preset cook time.
The 15 minute time is calibrated for 1-inch thick boneless chicken breasts. It provides enough time under pressure for the chicken to cook through fully while remaining juicy and tender.
For bone-in chicken pieces, the 15 minute cook time may need to be extended. The chicken program will automatically add more time if sensors detect there are bones present. Thicker cuts like a whole chicken also require additional time.
While 15 minutes is the standard pre-set time, you can always manually adjust the cook time up or down based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces as well as your own preference.
Factors That Affect Cook Time
There are a few factors that determine how long the chicken setting should be to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time:
- Chicken cut – Boneless pieces cook faster than bone-in
- Thickness – Thicker pieces need more time than thinner ones
- Amount – Cooking a larger quantity requires more time
- Frozen – Frozen chicken takes longer than fresh or thawed
- Altitude – High altitude locations may require extending cook time
Taking these factors into account allows you to adjust the preset chicken time as needed to get tender, juicy results regardless of the specifics.
Suggested Cook Times
While the 15 minute default is suitable for boneless breasts, here are some general guidelines for cook times using the chicken setting based on cut and thickness:
| Chicken Cut | Thickness | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless breasts | 1 inch | 15 minutes |
| Boneless thighs | 1 inch | 15 minutes |
| Bone-in breasts | 1 inch | 18-20 minutes |
| Bone-in thighs | 1-2 inches | 20 minutes |
| Drumsticks | 2-3 inches | 20-25 minutes |
| Whole chicken | 3-4 pounds | 25-30 minutes |
For frozen chicken, add 5-10 minutes to the cook time. Allow the pressure to natural release for at least 10 minutes after cooking before manually releasing if needed. The chicken will continue cooking during this time.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken
Follow these tips for foolproof chicken every time you use the Instant Pot chicken setting:
- Don’t overfill – Leave at least 1/2 inch space on top for proper pressurization
- Brush chicken with oil – Helps prevent sticking and promotes browning
- Use cooking liquid – 1/2 cup of water or broth in pot helps chicken cook evenly
- Layer pieces – Drumsticks and thighs on bottom, breasts on top
- Allow NPR – Let pressure release naturally for at least 10 minutes before quick releasing
- Check internal temp – Chicken should reach 165°F internally for food safety
- Adjust time as needed – Add or reduce cook time based on quantity, size, etc
- Let rest before serving – 5-10 minute rest allows juices to redistrbute
Conclusion
The pre-programmed chicken setting on the Instant Pot is generally 15 minutes, designed for boneless chicken breasts. However, cook time can vary from 15-30 minutes depending on cut, thickness, amount of chicken, and other factors. Allowing the pressure to natural release before opening the lid and checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer ensures the chicken reaches a safe 165°F. With some simple adjustments and following cook time recommendations, the chicken setting will deliver perfect results every time.