Instant Pot Chicken

This Instant Pot Chicken recipe is your new go-to for delicious, tender chicken that cooks in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. With a rich, flavorful sauce that seeps into each bite, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, ensuring your chicken is juicy and bursting with flavor, while the easy-to-follow steps make it a breeze for cooks of all skill levels.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will adore this Instant Pot chicken recipe for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is simply irresistible — a blend of savory spices and a hint of sweetness from honey or brown sugar creates a well-rounded taste that elevates the humble chicken breast. Second, the ease of cooking is unmatched; merely toss the ingredients in the pot, set it, and let the Instant Pot do the work. Finally, this recipe fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle, as it allows for a wholesome meal in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for families on the go or anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips and Tricks

To make the most of this Instant Pot chicken recipe, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

• Sear the Chicken: Before pressure cooking, take a few extra minutes to sear the chicken in the Instant Pot. This step enhances the flavor by creating a beautiful golden crust.
• Use Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts are great, chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy even if slightly overcooked.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in a handful of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro right before serving for an added burst of freshness and color.
• Adjust the Liquid: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reserve some of the cooking liquid and reduce it on the stovetop after pressure cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are common pitfalls to avoid when making this recipe:

• Overcooking: The Instant Pot cooks food quickly; be careful not to exceed the recommended cooking time for tender chicken.
• Not Enough Liquid: Always ensure there’s enough liquid in the pot to create steam; otherwise, you risk getting a burn notice.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken well. A little salt and pepper go a long way in enhancing the flavor.
• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally helps retain moisture in the chicken, so don’t rush this step.

Make Ahead Tips

For meal preppers and busy cooks, here’s how to get a head start:

• Marinate the Chicken: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Use a mix of your favorite spices, olive oil, and an acid like lemon juice for flavor.
• Chop Vegetables Ahead: If you’re adding vegetables, chop them the night before and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
• Cook and Store: This dish can also be fully cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners on busy days.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe with these variations:

• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Flavor Profiles: Experiment with different sauces like BBQ or teriyaki for a completely different taste.
• Herb Swaps: Use different herbs such as rosemary or thyme based on your preference.

How to Serve

Once your Instant Pot chicken is cooked to perfection, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For an elegant touch, arrange the chicken on a large platter with a drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement this dish, consider pairing it with a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light cocktail such as a gin and tonic. For side dishes, garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad work beautifully. A light dessert like sorbet or fruit salad can round out the meal without feeling heavy.

How to Store

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Equipment Needed

You will need an Instant Pot for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a traditional pressure cooker can also work, though the cooking times may vary. A good set of measuring cups and spoons, as well as a cutting board and sharp knife, will also be helpful.

Dietary Adaptations

For dietary adaptations, consider the following:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that any sauces or marinades used are gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but be cautious with any added toppings.
• Nut-Free: The ingredients listed are nut-free, but always check labels for cross-contamination.

Seasonal Adaptations

Take advantage of seasonal ingredients by swapping in fresh vegetables based on what’s available. For instance, use zucchini and bell peppers in the summer, and opt for root vegetables like carrots and parsnips in the fall. Fresh herbs like basil in the summer or thyme in the winter can also enhance the dish.

Cost Breakdown

This Instant Pot chicken recipe is budget-friendly, with an estimated cost of about $2.50 per serving. You can save money by buying chicken in bulk or using frozen chicken breasts. Opt for seasonal vegetables, which are often cheaper, to further reduce costs.

Kitchen Hacks

Here are some quick kitchen hacks to streamline your cooking process:

• Peel Garlic Quickly: To peel garlic cloves with ease, place the flat side of a knife over a clove and give it a gentle smack; the skin will loosen.
• Chop Onions Without Tears: Chill the onion in the fridge for 30 minutes before chopping to minimize tears.
• Batch Cook Rice: Make a large batch of rice at once and freeze portions for quick meals later.

Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but adjust the cooking time to 10-15 minutes longer.
• What can I substitute for chicken broth? Vegetable broth or water can be used, but may alter the flavor slightly.
• How do I know if the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Yield: 4

Instant Pot Chicken

Print

This Instant Pot Chicken recipe is your new go-to for delicious, tender chicken that cooks in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. With a rich, flavorful sauce that seeps into each bite, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional

Instructions

1. Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add olive oil.
3. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and honey, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
6. Place the seared chicken back in the pot, and close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing.”
7. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 10 minutes for chicken breasts or 12 minutes for thighs.
8. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to let out remaining steam.
9. Open the lid, check that the chicken is cooked through (165°F), and serve garnished with fresh herbs.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 557Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 236mgSodium 1002mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 1gSugar 10gProtein 80g

Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

In conclusion, this Instant Pot chicken recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a satisfying meal without the fuss. Its versatility and ease make it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor. Give it a try, and you might just find it becoming a staple in your weekly meal rotation!