13 Instant Pot Chicken Recipes Perfect For Lazy Nights

13 Instant Pot Chicken Recipes Perfect For Lazy Nights – because even on your busiest evenings, you deserve a delicious, home-cooked meal without the hassle. When time is tight but takeout isn’t tempting, these fuss-free Instant Pot recipes transform simple chicken into mouthwatering meals in minutes. From creamy pastas to zesty tacos and comforting soups, each dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort – just set it and forget it until dinner’s ready.

Say goodbye to long ingredient lists and complicated steps. These recipes are all about smart shortcuts and bold flavors that’ll make weeknight cooking feel effortless. Whether you’re craving something cheesy, spicy, or loaded with veggies, your trusty Instant Pot can handle it all while you relax. Just toss in the ingredients, press a button, and voila – a satisfying dinner that tastes like you spent hours cooking (when really you had time to unwind).

Italian Chicken and Potatoes

This Italian Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken and flavorful potatoes, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. It’s a comforting dish that brings together the taste of Italy with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a go-to for those lazy nights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

The chicken is juicy and infused with Italian herbs, while the potatoes soak up all the savory goodness of the broth and spices. It’s a meal that not only satisfies but also warms the soul, perfect for any family dinner or weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and add the seasoned chicken breasts.
3. Add the halved baby potatoes and sprinkle the Italian seasoning on top.
4. Gently stir in the diced tomatoes.
5. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Once the cooking time is done, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid, and serve the chicken and potatoes hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken dish is a comforting meal that combines tender chicken with a rich, flavorful sauce. The garlic and parmesan create a delightful blend that makes your taste buds dance, while the creamy texture brings everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s super simple to make, making it ideal for those lazy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cooked in the Instant Pot, this recipe ensures that the chicken comes out juicy and full of flavor every time. It’s perfect served over pasta or with rice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a nice touch. Get ready for a dish that feels indulgent but is easy to whip up!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heat the olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Add the chicken back to the pot and seal the lid.
4. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then do a quick release of the pressure.
5. Remove the chicken and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Return the chicken to the pot, coat with the sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Teriyaki Chicken with Rice

Teriyaki Chicken with Rice is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table. The tender chicken, glistening with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice. It’s simple to make and ideal for those lazy nights when you want something quick yet satisfying.

The flavors in this dish are a wonderful balance of sweet and salty, with the soy sauce and brown sugar creating that signature teriyaki taste. To top it off, you can add sesame seeds and green onions for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. It’s a meal that the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 4 cups cooked white rice
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot and pour the teriyaki sauce, honey, and rice vinegar over them. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
3. Glaze the Chicken: Open the lid, remove the chicken, and set it aside. Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Let the sauce reduce for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Serve: Slice the chicken and return it to the pot to coat it in the thickened sauce. Serve over cooked white rice, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

These Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for those busy nights when you want something simple yet satisfying. The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce perfectly complements the juicy chicken thighs, making each bite delightful. Plus, cooking them in the Instant Pot means you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also requires minimal prep. Toss the ingredients into the pot, set it, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that pairs wonderfully with rice or veggies.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup carrots, cut into sticks
• 1 cup celery, cut into sticks

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil, and brown the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
3. In a bowl, mix together honey and Dijon mustard. Once the chicken is browned, pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken.
4. Add the chicken broth, carrots, and celery to the pot.
5. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a 5-minute natural release, then quick release any remaining steam.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with the vegetables and drizzle with additional honey mustard sauce, if desired.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces marinated in spices and yogurt, simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. The flavors are bold yet comforting, combining warmth from spices with a touch of sweetness from the tomatoes. This recipe is surprisingly simple and quick, making it perfect for those lazy nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or naan, allowing you to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. Plus, using an Instant Pot means less fuss and more time to enjoy with friends or family. Dive into this delicious meal, and you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 piece ginger, grated
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• Salt to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine yogurt, garam masala, cumin, turmeric, chili powder, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken pieces, coating them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function, add the oil, and cook the marinated chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt. Close the Instant Pot lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Release and Stir: Once done, carefully release the pressure. Open the lid and stir in the heavy cream until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve: Garnish with cilantro and serve the Chicken Tikka Masala over rice or with naan. Enjoy!

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ chicken sandwiches are a fantastic blend of smoky, tangy flavors that come together in a fun and satisfying way. Perfect for those lazy nights, they require minimal prep and are sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken coated in rich BBQ sauce, paired with crunchy coleslaw and a soft bun, makes for a deliciously messy meal that everyone will love.

Not only are these sandwiches easy to make, but they also allow for customization. You can choose your favorite BBQ sauce, add extra toppings, or even switch up the coleslaw for something with a bit more zing. Whether you’re enjoying them on a weeknight or serving them for a casual gathering, BBQ chicken sandwiches are always a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hamburger buns
• 2 cups coleslaw mix
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before switching to a quick release.
3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it with the remaining BBQ sauce.
4. Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Mix well until everything is combined.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. On the bottom half of each bun, pile on the BBQ chicken, followed by a generous scoop of coleslaw. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Buffalo Chicken Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors, making it an irresistible appetizer for any gathering or a cozy night in. This dip is not only simple to make, but it also delivers a satisfying kick that will please your taste buds. Imagine tender shredded chicken mixed with creamy cheese, tangy Buffalo sauce, and a hint of ranch—what’s not to love?

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it warm with crunchy tortilla chips, celery sticks, or even on toast for a delightful snack. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or having a chill movie night, this dip is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• Tortilla chips or veggies for serving

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
2. Transfer to Instant Pot: Pour the mixture into the Instant Pot. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
3. Cook: Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode for 10 minutes. Once done, use the quick release method to release the pressure.
4. Serve: Stir the dip well before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with tortilla chips or veggies!

Lemon Herb Roast Chicken

Lemon Herb Roast Chicken is a delightful dish bursting with fresh flavors. The bright zest of lemon pairs perfectly with aromatic herbs, creating a dish that is both savory and refreshing. Best of all, it’s simple to make using your Instant Pot, making it perfect for those lazy nights when you want a comforting meal without the fuss.

The chicken becomes tender and juicy, infused with the flavors of lemon and herbs. It’s a great way to impress family or friends, yet it requires minimal effort. Serve it alongside your favorite veggies or over rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken and pat it dry. Rub the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin as well.
2. Cook in the Instant Pot: Place the chicken in the Instant Pot on the trivet. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle lemon zest over the top. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
3. Pressure Cook: Select the manual setting and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
4. Serve: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Enjoy with your choice of sides!

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a variety of seasonings to create a family favorite. This recipe stands out for its ease and simplicity, making it perfect for those lazy nights when you want a hearty meal without much fuss.

The creamy texture and delightful flavor make this casserole a hit at any dinner table. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a one-pot wonder that saves you time on cleanup. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 cup cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine the chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot.
2. Add the diced chicken and rice, stirring to combine.
3. Close the lid and seal the vent. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once cooking is complete, quick release the pressure and add the frozen peas and carrots.
5. Stir well and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving.

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Sweet and sour chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces with colorful bell peppers and pineapple, all coated in a tangy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The balance of sweetness from the pineapple and the savory flavors of the chicken make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare in your Instant Pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, and green)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 onion, diced
• 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the cubed chicken breast with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté: Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add vegetable oil and sauté the chicken until browned, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the onion, bell peppers, and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.
4. Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the Instant Pot, stirring to coat the chicken and vegetables.
5. Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release of the pressure.
6. Serve: Give everything a gentle stir, and serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Spicy Chicken Curry

Spicy Chicken Curry is the ultimate comfort food that’s both flavorful and easy to whip up. This dish brings together tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with a blend of spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Perfect for lazy nights, it’s a one-pot meal that packs a punch in flavor without demanding too much time in the kitchen.

The heat from the spices complements the creaminess of the coconut milk, creating a delightful balance that’ll warm you up from the inside out. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners, yet tastes like it came from a restaurant. Serve it with rice or naan for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice level)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a bit of oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot, followed by curry powder, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir to coat the chicken in the spices.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and diced tomatoes. Season with salt to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid, stir well, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your spicy chicken curry with rice or naan!

Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a quick and tasty meal that packs a punch of flavor. With tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, they’re a delicious way to satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, cooking them in an Instant Pot makes the process even simpler!

This dish is perfect for lazy nights when you want something flavorful and filling with minimal effort. The combination of smoky spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Serve them in warm tortillas and top with your favorite fixings for a delightful dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 flour tortillas
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Additional toppings: salsa, guacamole, sour cream

Instructions

1. In the Instant Pot, heat the olive oil using the sauté function. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Add the chicken strips to the pot along with the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, carefully quick-release the pressure.
4. Stir the mixture, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve in warm tortillas, garnished with cilantro and your favorite toppings.

Dijon Lemon Chicken Breasts

Dijon Lemon Chicken Breasts are a delightful and simple dish that packs a zesty punch. The combination of tangy Dijon mustard and fresh lemon creates a vibrant flavor that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also makes for an impressive dinner on lazy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle.

The Instant Pot ensures that your chicken stays tender and moist, making it a reliable method for a weeknight meal. Serve it alongside your favorite sides like green beans or mashed potatoes for a complete dinner that feels gourmet.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Mix the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture, ensuring they are evenly covered.
3. Place the chicken in the Instant Pot and pour in the chicken broth.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve the chicken with a drizzle of the cooking liquid and your choice of sides.

Final Thoughts

The Instant Pot is every busy cook’s secret weapon for turning ordinary chicken into extraordinary meals with barely any work. These recipes prove that lazy nights don’t have to mean boring food – with the right techniques and flavor combinations, pressure cooking can produce results that rival slow-simmered dishes. Keep these go-to recipes in your back pocket for those nights when even stirring a pot feels like too much effort, but a homemade meal still sounds oh-so-good. Here’s to easy eating that never sacrifices taste!