5 Easy Instant Pot Chicken Recipes

In the realm of modern culinary convenience, few kitchen gadgets shine as brightly as the Instant Pot. This ingenious device has transformed the way we cook, offering solutions for quick meals without compromising on flavor or nutrition. For chicken enthusiasts, this article delves into 5 Easy Instant Pot Chicken Recipes that will not only delight your taste buds but also save you time, all while catering to different dietary needs. From seasoned cooks to kitchen novices, these recipes provide a simple path to delectable chicken dishes.

Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken

There’s something truly exceptional about the pairing of tangy lemon with savory garlic; it’s a classic duo in many cuisines. Here’s how you can create this flavorful combination with the simplicity of an Instant Pot.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and optional herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

Instructions:

1. Turn on your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the olive oil and season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the chicken thighs skin-side down until the skin is crispy, approximately 5 minutes, then remove them.
3. On the remaining fat in the pot, sauté the garlic until it's aromatic.
4. Add lemon zest, juice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Place the chicken back into the pot, ensuring the skin side is up.
6. Cancel sauté mode, lock the lid in place, set to "Poultry" or "Manual" mode, and cook for 8-10 minutes.
7. Once finished, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
8. Open the lid, switch back to sauté mode, and let the sauce reduce if desired, or serve immediately with a sprinkle of your chosen herbs.

✅ Note: Browning the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also contributes to the rich taste of the sauce.

Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken

If your palate yearns for the taste of Italy, you’ll appreciate this creamy dish. This recipe is a nod to the flavors of Tuscany, with the added convenience of Instant Pot preparation.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Fresh spinach (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil, and brown the seasoned chicken pieces.
2. Remove chicken and sauté the onion in the same pot until translucent. Add garlic.
3. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Place chicken back into the pot, add chicken broth, and lock the lid. Set to "Poultry" or "Manual" mode for 10 minutes.
5. After cooking, quick release the pressure, remove the chicken, and switch back to sauté mode.
6. Reduce heat and whisk in heavy cream, followed by Parmesan until melted and smooth.
7. Adjust seasoning if needed. Optionally, add fresh spinach for a pop of green color and nutrition.
8. Return the chicken to the sauce, let it sit until heated through, and serve with your favorite side.

🍝 Note: This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or rustic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Instant Pot Chicken Taco Bowls

If taco night is a regular event in your home, these Instant Pot Chicken Taco Bowls will revolutionize the way you make them.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 cup frozen corn
• Toppings of choice (cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Layer chicken at the bottom of your Instant Pot.
2. Sprinkle with taco seasoning, pour in salsa, and top with chicken broth.
3. Lock the lid, set to "Manual" or "Poultry" mode, and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release.
5. Remove chicken, shred with forks, and return it to the pot.
6. Stir in black beans and corn, letting it sit in the warm pot to heat through.
7. Serve in bowls topped with your favorite taco fixings.

🌮 Note: Customize your taco bowls by adding a variety of toppings to cater to everyone's preferences.

Instant Pot Whole Chicken

Why not try cooking an entire chicken in your Instant Pot? This recipe is a game-changer for Sunday dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, giblets removed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme

Instructions:

1. Rub the chicken with olive oil and season thoroughly with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Place the trivet in your Instant Pot, add the chicken broth, and then place the chicken on the trivet.
3. Lock the lid and set to "Manual" or "Poultry" mode for 25 minutes per pound of chicken.
4. Natural pressure release for 20 minutes, then quick release if necessary.
5. Use tongs to transfer the chicken to a baking tray, and if desired, broil it in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
6. Serve with the juices from the pot as gravy, or reduce them for a more concentrated flavor.

🍗 Note: The Instant Pot Whole Chicken is versatile; use leftovers for salads, sandwiches, or soups.

Instant Pot Honey Soy Chicken

For those who enjoy sweet and savory flavors, this Honey Soy Chicken recipe will not disappoint. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving takeout at home.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• ¹⁄₄ cup soy sauce
• ¹⁄₃ cup honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Turn Instant Pot to sauté mode, add a little oil, and brown the chicken for flavor.
3. Remove chicken, deglaze the pot with chicken broth, then return the chicken to the pot.
4. Pour the honey soy mixture over the chicken.
5. Lock the lid, set to "Manual" or "Poultry" mode, and cook for 10-12 minutes.
6. Natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release if necessary.
7. Remove chicken, thicken the sauce in the pot if desired, and pour over the chicken when serving.
8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

🍯 Note: The sweetness of the honey soy sauce makes this an excellent choice for serving over rice or noodles.

Whether you're looking to save time or explore new flavors, these 5 Easy Instant Pot Chicken Recipes demonstrate the versatility and efficiency of this modern kitchen appliance. From traditional to fusion cuisine, the Instant Pot helps bring flavors to life with minimal effort. Each dish is not only quick to prepare but also adaptable to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy a delicious meal.

Can I use frozen chicken in my Instant Pot?

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Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times. Typically, add about 5-7 extra minutes to your cooking time. Also, make sure your chicken pieces aren’t stuck together and increase the amount of liquid in the recipe to compensate for the additional cooking time.

Do I need to release pressure immediately, or should I wait?

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Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for around 10 minutes is recommended for most chicken recipes as it lets the meat to rest, which can help it stay moist. After this time, you can perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.

How do I prevent chicken from becoming tough in the Instant Pot?

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Preventing tough chicken in the Instant Pot involves not overcooking. Stick to the recommended cooking times and ensure the chicken is fully defrosted if using fresh. Natural pressure release also helps maintain tenderness.

What can I do if my chicken is not fully cooked after the Instant Pot cycle?

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If your chicken is undercooked, simply lock the lid again, set the valve to “Sealing,” and add a few more minutes to the cooking time. Remember to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.