Name: Instant Pot Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tsp olive oil; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

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The aroma of succulent chicken wafting through your kitchen, coupled with the soothing sounds of an Instant Pot doing its magic. That’s right, we’re diving into the world of instant pot chicken. Picture this: juicy, tender chicken, infused with a symphony of spices and flavors that dance on your palate like they’re auditioning for a Broadway show. You can almost hear the applause as you serve it up!

Now, let me take you back to a time when I first discovered the joy of cooking with an Instant Pot. It was one fateful evening; I was knee-deep in takeout menus and indecision when my friend casually mentioned her secret weapon: the Instant Pot. It was love at first sight! Fast-forward to today, and here I am, sharing this delightful instant pot chicken recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel like gourmet affairs. Prepare yourself for an explosion of flavor that will have your taste buds singing!

Why You'll Love This instant pot chicken

This incredible instant pot chicken transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious instant pot chicken:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep things flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil ensures your chicken gets that golden sear.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness and balances out the salty notes beautifully.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up all those rich flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious instant pot chicken:

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by selecting the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add olive oil and wait until it shimmers like a disco ball at a Saturday night fever party. Season those beautiful chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pot. Let them brown on both sides for about 3-4 minutes each—don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked; they’ll finish cooking later.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once your chicken has achieved its golden-brown status, toss in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant—trust me; your neighbors will be knocking at your door asking if they can come over for dinner.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Now it’s time to add some flavor bombs! Pour in the chicken broth along with soy sauce, honey, and lemon juice. Give it all a good stir like you’re conducting an orchestra—make sure everything is well combined.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the lid securely and ensure that the valve is set to sealing mode (you don’t want a kitchen explosion). Select high-pressure cooking for about 10 minutes—this is where all that magic happens!

Step 5: Release Pressure

When cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of pressure (stand back; it could get steamy). Open that lid to reveal perfectly cooked instant pot chicken that’s begging to be devoured.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve alongside rice or roasted vegetables while basking in compliments from friends and family!

There you have it! A delightful dish that’s as easy as pie (and just as satisfying). So grab your forks and dig into this delicious instant pot chicken—it’s time to feast!

You Must Know About instant pot chicken

This showstopping instant pot chicken delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results when making instant pot chicken, start by searing the chicken first for added flavor. While it cooks, prepare your sauce and any accompanying sides to ensure everything is ready at the same time.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your instant pot chicken with different seasonings based on your preference. Swap out herbs or add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover instant pot chicken, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove to preserve its delicious moisture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for instant pot chicken

This professional-quality instant pot chicken relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made instant pot chicken, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a taste! Their enthusiastic compliments still make me chuckle when I think about how worried I was that it wouldn’t turn out right.

FAQs

What is instant pot chicken?

Instant pot chicken refers to any chicken dish prepared using an Instant Pot, a popular electric pressure cooker. This method allows for quicker cooking times while retaining moisture and flavor. The versatility of the Instant Pot means you can create delicious meals, from tender shredded chicken for tacos to hearty soups or stews. Whether you’re a busy parent or a meal prep enthusiast, instant pot chicken is perfect for easy weeknight dinners or batch cooking.

How long does it take to cook chicken in an Instant Pot?

The cooking time for chicken in an Instant Pot varies depending on the cut and size. Generally, boneless chicken breasts take about 10 minutes under high pressure, while bone-in pieces may require around 15 to 20 minutes. Smaller cuts like thighs cook faster than larger ones. Always ensure your Instant Pot has enough liquid to build pressure, and remember to let it naturally release steam for the best results.

Can you use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot! This feature is one of the reasons many people love this appliance. Cooking frozen chicken generally takes about 50% longer than fresh. For instance, if it normally takes 10 minutes for fresh breasts, expect around 15 minutes for frozen ones. Just be sure to add extra liquid and adjust cooking times accordingly for perfectly cooked instant pot chicken.

What are some popular recipes for instant pot chicken?

There are countless delicious recipes for instant pot chicken that cater to various tastes and preferences. Popular options include creamy garlic Parmesan chicken, zesty lemon herb chicken, and spicy buffalo shredded chicken. You can also make comforting dishes like chicken soup or curry. The beauty of using an Instant Pot is that you can easily adapt recipes by changing spices or adding vegetables, making every meal unique.

Conclusion

In conclusion, instant pot chicken offers a convenient and flavorful way to prepare meals quickly. This versatile cooking method allows you to enjoy a variety of dishes while saving time in the kitchen. Whether you’re making classic recipes or experimenting with new flavors, the Instant Pot ensures juicy and tender results every time. Embrace the ease of instant pot chicken as a staple in your weekly meal planning for delightful dining experiences that everyone will love!