5-Minute Instapot Chicken Recipes with Canned Chicken

In today's fast-paced lifestyle, cooking dinner after a long day of work or managing family life can feel daunting. However, with the advent of the Instapot, meal preparation has become significantly simpler and quicker. If you’re looking for a dinner solution that requires minimal prep and cooking time, our 5-Minute Instapot Chicken Recipes using canned chicken might just be your savior. Here, we delve into easy, delicious recipes that can turn your ordinary canned chicken into a gourmet meal in no time.

Advantages of Using Canned Chicken

Canned chicken, often overlooked, can be a lifesaver for those days when fresh ingredients are scarce or when time is of the essence. Here are some key benefits:

• Convenience: Already cooked, which means you save on cooking time.
• Long Shelf Life: Perfect for emergencies or spontaneous meal plans.
• Cost-Effective: Generally cheaper than buying fresh chicken, making it budget-friendly.
• Nutrition: Despite being canned, it retains much of its nutritional value.
• Versatility: It can be used in a multitude of dishes from soups to salads.

💡 Note: When using canned chicken, make sure to drain and rinse to reduce sodium content.

Preparation Tips

• Choose quality brands to ensure better taste.
• Always drain and rinse the chicken to remove any preservatives or salt.
• Shred or break up the chicken for better texture in your recipes.
• Adjust seasonings to balance the canned chicken's flavor.

5-Minute Instapot Chicken Recipes

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup

To kick things off, let's make a comforting Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup:

1. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instapot.
2. Add in two cans of drained, shredded chicken, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Set to 'Soup' mode for 5 minutes.
4. After cooking, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme.

Chicken Pot Pie Filling

For a hearty meal, try making a Chicken Pot Pie Filling:

1. Add 1 can of drained chicken, 1 cup of mixed vegetables (frozen or canned), and 1 cup of chicken broth into the Instapot.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
3. Set to 'Manual' for 5 minutes.
4. Thicken the mixture by whisking in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water after cooking.

Serve this filling in pre-cooked pie crusts or over biscuits.

Chicken Tacos

If you're in the mood for something with a bit of spice, try these quick Chicken Tacos:

1. Add 1 can of drained chicken, 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1/2 cup of water, and a squeeze of lime juice to the Instapot.
2. Set to 'Manual' for 5 minutes.
3. Stir the chicken well, shred if necessary, and warm the taco shells.

Chicken Noodle Soup

For a light and comforting meal, go for a classic Chicken Noodle Soup:

1. Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the Instapot, add 1 can of drained chicken, 1 cup of sliced carrots, 1/2 cup of sliced celery, and 1/2 cup of chopped onion.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Add 1 cup of egg noodles.
4. Set to 'Manual' for 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate these dishes:

• Serve with crusty bread or a simple salad.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream.
• Adjust the consistency of soups by adding more broth or reducing liquid.

The versatility of the Instapot combined with the convenience of canned chicken allows for a quick, nutritious, and delicious meal with minimal effort. These recipes showcase how you can transform a pantry staple into something special. Whether it's a cozy soup for a chilly evening or a vibrant taco night, these meals are designed to satisfy while saving you time and energy.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?

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Absolutely, you can use fresh chicken. The cook time will increase to about 7-10 minutes for shredded chicken.

What other ingredients can I add to these recipes?

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Feel free to include vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Spices can also be varied to suit your palate.

How do I store leftovers?

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Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Soups can be frozen for up to 3 months.