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If you're looking to simplify weeknight dinners while impressing guests, you've come to the right place. With over 15 easy and flavorful Instant Pot chicken recipes, you can create dishes that are both quick and satisfying. From creamy Alfredo to zesty tacos, there's something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for sweet or savory, these recipes make mealtime a breeze. Let's explore what these tasty options have to offer.
Key Takeaways
- Discover a variety of easy Instant Pot chicken recipes, including creamy Alfredo and spicy tacos, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
- Enjoy customizable options with flavors like honey garlic and lemon herb to suit your taste preferences.
- Utilize cooking techniques such as sautéing and natural pressure release for enhanced flavor and tenderness in your chicken dishes.
- Explore additional recipes like chicken and rice or BBQ drumsticks for more diverse meal options in one pot.
- Enhance your meals with simple tips like marinating chicken, adding vegetables, or experimenting with different spices and sauces.
Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo is a deliciously easy meal that brings the rich, comforting flavors of classic Alfredo sauce to your table in no time. This one-pot dish combines tender chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce.
Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Using an Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the flavors beautifully.
With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant's Alfredo. Follow this simple recipe to whip up a delightful Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and then place them in the pot. Sauté the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it's lightly browned.
Remove the chicken and set it aside. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. Add the fettuccine pasta, making sure it's submerged in the liquid. Place the chicken breasts back on top of the pasta.
Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Finally, return the shredded chicken to the pot, mix well, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli to the dish just before serving.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow the Alfredo to simmer on the sauté mode for a few additional minutes after adding the cream and cheese. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, as the saltiness of the cheese can vary.
Enjoy your creamy creation!
Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Tacos are a delicious and easy way to bring bold flavors to your dinner table. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have tender, flavorful shredded chicken ready in no time. These tacos are perfect for a weeknight family meal or a gathering with friends. Serve them with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
With a blend of spices that pack a punch, these tacos are sure to please anyone who enjoys a bit of heat. The Instant Pot locks in moisture and flavor, making the chicken juicy and tender. Pair these spicy chicken tacos with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime for a revitalizing contrast.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime wedges
To prepare the Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Tacos, start by setting the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil, and once hot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
After the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, mixing it with the juices to fully absorb the flavors.
Serve the spicy chicken in warm tortillas, and top with your choice of toppings for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Extra Tips: For an extra kick, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. You can also customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper or adding in jalapeños.
If you want to make it a complete meal, serve the tacos with a side of Mexican rice or black beans. Enjoy!
Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken
Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory-sweet glaze, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the chicken with the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and soy sauce. This dish isn't only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal in no time.
To make Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken, you'll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering experience. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it a great option for busy families or anyone looking to whip up something quick and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and ground ginger (if using).
Pour this mixture into the Instant Pot, then add the seasoned chicken, ensuring it's well-coated with the sauce. Close the lid securely and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of steam for about 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
After removing the chicken, switch the Instant Pot to the sauté mode. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, and then stir this into the sauce in the pot.
Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Return the chicken to the pot, coating it with the thickened sauce before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Extra Tips
For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours before cooking.
You can also substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a juicier cut of meat. If you want to add some vegetables to the dish, consider tossing in some broccoli or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken!
Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Breasts are a delicious and simple way to prepare a flavorful meal in no time. The Instant Pot allows for juicy chicken breasts infused with bright lemon and fragrant herbs, making this dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
With minimal prep and easy cleanup, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the chicken while adding a zesty twist from the lemon and a touch of freshness from the herbs.
Pair it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a light salad, for a complete meal that will impress your family or guests. Let's explore the ingredients and cooking process!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chicken breasts to the pot and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Next, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, and thyme.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
Open the lid carefully, and check the internal temperature of the chicken to verify it has reached 165°F. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle with the cooking liquid and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Extra Tips:
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for an hour before cooking. Additionally, you can customize the herbs to your preference; rosemary and basil also work beautifully with this dish.
If you're looking to add a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning. Enjoy your Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Breasts with a side of your choice for a delightful meal!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Cooking chicken and rice in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with fluffy rice, all cooked together in a single pot for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. The Instant Pot's pressure cooking method locks in moisture and guarantees that both the chicken and rice are perfectly cooked, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family.
In addition to being quick and easy, this dish is highly versatile. You can customize the flavors by adding your favorite spices or vegetables, making it a great way to use up what you have on hand. Whether you serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables, Instant Pot chicken and rice is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or your choice of vegetables)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, then add it to the pot. Sear the chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
Next, add the rice and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Make sure to scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot to avoid a burn notice. Ultimately, add the frozen peas and carrots on top of the rice but don't stir.
Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve warm.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your dish, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces for a few hours before cooking.
You can also experiment with different types of rice, such as brown rice or jasmine, but remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Finally, for added richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of lemon juice just before serving to elevate the dish even further!
BBQ Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
BBQ Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. The Instant Pot locks in moisture while infusing the chicken with the rich, smoky flavors of barbecue sauce.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, as it requires just a few ingredients and only 15 minutes of cooking time. Plus, the hands-off nature of the Instant Pot means you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than slaving away in the kitchen.
To elevate your BBQ chicken experience, consider serving the drumsticks with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. The combination of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce paired with juicy chicken will surely impress your family and friends.
So fire up your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor.
- Add the chicken broth or water to the Instant Pot, and then place the seasoned drumsticks on top. Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam. Remove the drumsticks and set them aside.
- To add that authentic BBQ flavor, brush the drumsticks generously with barbecue sauce and place them under the broiler in your oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks in your favorite barbecue sauce for at least an hour or overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat for an even tastier result.
Additionally, you can adjust the cooking time based on the size of the drumsticks; larger pieces may require a couple of extra minutes. Enjoy experimenting with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite combination!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in These Recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in these recipes! Just increase the cooking time slightly to make certain it cooks through. Remember to check the internal temperature to verify it reaches a safe level before serving.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken in the Instant Pot?
Time flies when you're having fun, but cooking chicken in the Instant Pot takes about 10-15 minutes on high pressure. Just remember to account for the time it takes to build pressure, too!
What Is the Best Way to Season Chicken for Instant Pot Recipes?
To season chicken for Instant Pot recipes, you'll want to use a mix of spices, herbs, and marinades. Don't forget to include salt and pepper for flavor enhancement, and let it marinate for a while!
Can I Double the Ingredients in These Recipes?
Absolutely, you can double the ingredients in these recipes, just like a master chef crafting a symphony of flavors. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might need slight adjustments to guarantee perfection.
How Do I Safely Release Pressure From the Instant Pot?
To safely release pressure from your Instant Pot, you can use the quick release method by turning the valve to "venting" or the natural release method by letting it sit until pressure drops naturally. Always stay clear!
