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If you're looking to elevate your weeknight meals, consider exploring the world of Instant Pot lemon chicken recipes. These dishes blend the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with tender chicken, creating meals that are both invigorating and satisfying. From Lemon Garlic Chicken to Mediterranean Stews, there's a recipe to suit every taste. You'll find that cooking in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also locks in flavors beautifully. Let's uncover these vibrant options.
Key Takeaways
- Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken offers a savory dish with zesty lemon and garlic, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
- Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken and pasta in a luscious lemony cream sauce, ideal for gourmet-style meals at home.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice features juicy chicken thighs and perfectly cooked rice, infused with bright lemon flavors for a comforting family dinner.
- Spicy Lemon Chicken Tacos provide a zesty, customizable meal in warm tortillas, suitable for casual gatherings or quick dinners.
- Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Stew is a hearty dish with chicken, olives, and spices, cooked under pressure for a comforting, flavorful stew.
Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken
Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken is a flavorful and savory dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic garlic infuses the chicken with a deliciously bright flavor, while the Instant Pot guarantees that the chicken remains juicy and tender.
This recipe isn't only easy to prepare, but it also allows for quick clean-up, making it an ideal choice for those who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
In this recipe, the chicken is cooked under pressure, which locks in moisture and enhances the flavors. Serve it with steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice to soak up the delightful lemon-garlic sauce. Your family and friends will be asking for seconds as they savor this comforting dish bursting with taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Set your 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 seasoned chicken breasts to the pot and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Next, pour in the chicken broth and the juice of two lemons, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve 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.
Carefully remove the chicken, drizzle with lemon zest, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken after cooking and switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode to reduce the broth for a few minutes.
Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal!
Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious lemony cream sauce. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it can be prepared quickly using the Instant Pot. The zesty lemon adds brightness to the dish, while the creaminess balances the flavors, making it a family favorite that everyone will love.
This recipe brings together a medley of fresh ingredients and pantry staples, making it both simple and satisfying. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and moisture. With just a few steps, you'll be able to serve a gourmet-style meal that impresses without the fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Heat the olive oil and add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, browning them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside.
Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Return the chicken to the pot, add the pasta, and pour the lemon juice and zest over the top.
Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, use a quick release to release the pressure.
Open the lid and remove the chicken, shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot, combine everything well, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs before cooking.
You can also adjust the creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream according to your preference. If you prefer a lighter version, substituting half-and-half for heavy cream works well.
Finally, don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to confirm the perfect balance of flavors!
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice
Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. This recipe makes use of the Instant Pot for quick and convenient cooking, allowing you to achieve a flavorful meal in no time. The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs come together to create a comforting yet invigorating dish that's perfect for any occasion.
In this recipe, we'll be using chicken thighs, which are known for their juiciness and rich flavor. Pairing the chicken with aromatic herbs and lemon juice not only enhances the taste but also elevates the overall dining experience. Serve this dish as a wholesome dinner option that the whole family will love, and enjoy the simplicity of cooking everything in one pot.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat for a minute. Once heated, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Then, add the rice to the pot, followed by the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir everything to combine well.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and give the dish a gentle stir.
- Serve the Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Extra Tips:
When preparing this dish, feel free to customize the herbs to your liking; fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can add a unique touch. Additionally, for a richer flavor, you can marinate the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
Make sure to adjust the cooking time if you use brown rice, as it requires a longer cooking duration. Finally, adding seasonal vegetables like peas or spinach during the final few minutes of cooking can enhance the nutritional value and add color to your meal. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Spicy Lemon Chicken Tacos
Spicy Lemon Chicken Tacos are a zesty and flavorful meal that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. The combination of tender chicken infused with spicy lemon flavors, wrapped in warm tortillas, makes for a delicious and satisfying dish.
With the Instant Pot, you can have these tacos ready in no time, ensuring that you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the vibrant flavors that come together effortlessly. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also helps to tenderize the chicken, while the spices give it a nice kick. Serve these tacos with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, avocado, sour cream, lime wedges
To begin, season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In the Instant Pot, heat the olive oil on the sauté setting. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
Pour in the lemon juice, then seal the lid 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 of the remaining pressure.
After opening the lid, shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the cooking juices.
Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave, then fill each tortilla with the spicy lemon chicken mixture. Top with your choice of toppings and serve immediately.
Extra Tips: For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lemon juice and spices for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
Additionally, feel free to customize your toppings based on what you have on hand or your personal preference—fresh pico de gallo, pickled onions, or even shredded cabbage can make great additions!
Lemon Butter Chicken With Asparagus
Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the bright, zesty flavors of lemon with the richness of butter. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly easy and quick, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The tender chicken, infused with lemon and butter, pairs beautifully with crisp asparagus, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option or a dish to impress guests.
This one-pot meal not only saves on clean-up time but also guarantees that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Cooking under pressure helps the chicken stay moist and juicy while the asparagus maintains its vibrant color and crunch.
Serve it over a bed of rice or alongside mashed potatoes for a complete meal that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup chicken broth
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Once the chicken is seared, pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Layer the trimmed asparagus on top of the chicken.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 8 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before carefully releasing the remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, and your Lemon Butter Chicken with Asparagus is ready to be served!
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
You can also substitute other vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, for the asparagus if you prefer. Remember to check the doneness of the chicken using a meat thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!
Honey Lemon Chicken Thighs
Honey Lemon Chicken Thighs are a delightful and zesty dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. The combination of honey and lemon creates a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, which beautifully complements the juicy chicken thighs. This recipe isn't only easy to prepare but also quick to cook in your Instant Pot, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
To enhance the flavor profile, this recipe includes garlic and soy sauce, which add depth and richness to the dish. The Instant Pot guarantees that the chicken thighs remain moist and tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors. Serve this dish over rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once heated, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey, lemon juice, and soy sauce, stirring to combine. Place the chicken thighs back into the pot, making sure they're coated with the sauce. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once finished, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Serve the chicken thighs drizzled with the honey lemon sauce and garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the honey-lemon mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the chicken after cooking and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode again, letting the sauce reduce for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Honey Lemon Chicken Thighs!
Lemon Chicken and Quinoa Bowls
Lemon Chicken and Quinoa Bowls are a delightful and nutritious meal that combines the zesty tang of lemon with the wholesome goodness of quinoa and tender chicken. This dish isn't only easy to prepare in your Instant Pot, but it also delivers a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, these bowls are a great way to incorporate lean protein and whole grains into your diet. Cooking the chicken in the Instant Pot infuses it with moisture and flavor while the quinoa cooks to fluffy perfection.
This dish can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile option for a healthy meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a delicious Lemon Chicken and Quinoa Bowl that's both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once heated, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and stir well. Add the rinsed quinoa, and then place the seared chicken on top of the quinoa mixture.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding diced vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes into the pot along with the quinoa and chicken.
Additionally, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Make sure to let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving, as this helps to enhance the flavors even more.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious Lemon Chicken and Quinoa Bowls!
Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Stew
This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Serve it alongside crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious broth.
With its zesty lemon and savory components, this Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Stew will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil, and once it's hot, toss in the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Next, add the chicken thighs to the pot, browning them slightly on both sides. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes before performing a quick release.
Carefully open the lid and stir the stew. If desired, you can thicken the stew by using the sauté function for a few more minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition and texture.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest according to your taste preference; more lemon will enhance the freshness, while less will keep it milder.
Enjoy your Mediterranean Lemon Chicken Stew with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for these recipes. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly. The Instant Pot will safely cook it through, ensuring you get a delicious meal even with frozen chicken. Enjoy!
How Long Does It Take to Cook Lemon Chicken in the Instant Pot?
"Time flies when you're having fun!" In the Instant Pot, lemon chicken cooks in about 10-15 minutes under high pressure. Just remember to allow for a natural release, adding a few extra minutes to your total.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Lemon Chicken?
When you're enjoying lemon chicken, consider pairing it with garlic roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the chicken's zesty flavors and enhance your overall dining experience beautifully.
Can I Substitute Lemon Juice With Another Citrus?
Imagine squeezing fresh orange juice over your dish instead of lemon. You can absolutely substitute lemon juice with orange or lime juice; they'll still provide that zesty flavor you love, just with a different twist!
Are These Recipes Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes, these recipes are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance, store it in the fridge, and enjoy flavorful, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week without any hassle.
