10+ Instant Pot One-Pot Chicken Recipes for Easy Dinners

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Imagine a kitchen where dinner is ready in a flash, much like a magician performing a sleight of hand. With 10+ Instant Pot one-pot chicken recipes, you can transform weeknight meals into effortless delights. Whether you're craving something creamy or a bit zesty, these recipes offer a variety of flavors. You'll want to discover how each dish can simplify your cooking routine and satisfy your family's taste buds.

Key Takeaways

• Discover a variety of one-pot chicken recipes like Creamy Chicken Alfredo and BBQ Chicken and Potatoes for easy weeknight dinners.
• Utilize the Instant Pot for quick preparation and minimal clean-up, making meal prep a breeze for families.
• Customize recipes with your favorite vegetables and spices for a personalized touch and added nutrition.
• Enjoy tender chicken infused with flavors, thanks to pressure cooking and sautéing techniques used in these recipes.
• Explore options like Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry and Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa for diverse flavors and healthy meal choices.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo

Creamy Chicken Alfredo is a delightful and rich dish that combines tender chicken with a luscious, creamy sauce. The Instant Pot makes preparing this classic Italian favorite not only quick but also incredibly easy. In just about 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

The pressure cooker method guarantees that the chicken remains juicy and tender while the pasta cooks to perfection alongside the sauce, creating a seamless one-pot dinner. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

With minimal prep and cleanup, you'll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. The creamy Alfredo sauce is made with simple ingredients, and you can even customize it by adding vegetables or herbs to suit your taste. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious Creamy Chicken Alfredo made in your Instant Pot!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Place the fettuccine on top of the broth, followed by the browned chicken. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, perform a quick release of the pressure.
3. Open the lid and remove the chicken. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Slice the chicken and return it to the pot, mixing it with the pasta and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli to the dish before serving. You can also swap the fettuccine for other pasta shapes if preferred, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

If you want a richer flavor, using freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended over pre-packaged options. Enjoy your creamy Chicken Alfredo with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken

Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of fresh flavor to your dinner table. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender chicken creates a meal that's not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're entertaining guests, as it requires minimal prep time and delivers impressive results.

In just a matter of minutes, you can have a succulent chicken dish ready to be served with your favorite sides. The Instant Pot locks in moisture, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and tender, while the zesty lemon and fragrant herbs infuse the meat with a revitalizing taste. Whether you serve it over rice, with a side of vegetables, or in a salad, this Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

To prepare the Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken, start by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest in a bowl.

Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the marinade over them, making sure they're well coated. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the 'Poultry' setting or cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

When the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can also use the leftover juices in the pot as a sauce to drizzle over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.

Extra Tips:

For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

You can also add some vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking for a complete one-pot meal.

If you prefer a crispy skin, you can quickly sear the chicken in a hot skillet after cooking in the Instant Pot. Enjoy your flavorful and zesty dish!

Honey Garlic Chicken

Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly complements tender pieces of chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in no time using your trusty Instant Pot. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Cooking Honey Garlic Chicken in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also locks in moisture, ensuring that your chicken remains juicy and tender. The pressure cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. Serve it over a bed of rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal that's sure to please.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

To begin, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function, and add the olive oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Next, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and place them in the pot. Pour the honey and soy sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring that it's well coated.

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 5 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside. You can thicken the sauce by using the sauté function again, cooking it for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency.

Serve the chicken drizzled with the sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Extra Tips: For a little extra kick, consider adding a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the honey-garlic mixture. If you prefer a different protein, this recipe works well with chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the pot for a one-pot meal. Enjoy your cooking!

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Chicken and rice casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken with fluffy rice, all cooked together in a rich, flavorful sauce. Using an Instant Pot makes the process quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy this delicious casserole in no time at all.

With minimal prep and clean-up, it's a fantastic option for families and anyone looking for a satisfying meal. Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it also offers versatility. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to enhance the flavor.

Whether you choose to make it with white or brown rice, the Instant Pot guarantees that everything cooks evenly and comes out perfectly. Serve the casserole with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and adding the olive oil. Once hot, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned (it doesn't need to be fully cooked at this stage). Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir well to combine. Place the seared chicken on top of the rice mixture. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure. Fluff the rice with a fork, serve hot, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a creamier casserole, you can add a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream before serving. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider topping the casserole with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and a little melted butter before cooking, or adding them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to experiment with different veggies or herbs to make this dish your own!

BBQ Chicken and Potatoes

BBQ Chicken and Potatoes is a delightful dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with perfectly cooked potatoes, all infused with a smoky BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering with friends and family. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of succulent chicken thighs or breasts with the hearty texture of potatoes creates a satisfying meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. This dish is also versatile; you can customize the BBQ sauce to suit your taste, whether you prefer a tangy, spicy, or sweet flavor profile. Serve it with a side of coleslaw or a green salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the halved baby potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Place the seared chicken on top of the potatoes and pour the BBQ sauce over everything. Close the Instant Pot lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" function and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the lid, and your BBQ chicken and potatoes are ready to serve!

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will enhance the taste and guarantee the chicken is juicy and packed with flavor.

Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for a colorful twist. If you prefer a thicker BBQ sauce, you can remove the chicken and potatoes after cooking and use the sauté function to reduce the sauce further before serving. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken and Potatoes!

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that combines marinated chicken with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, perfectly spiced to tantalize your taste buds. Cooking it in an Instant Pot allows for a quick and convenient way to achieve tender, flavorful chicken without sacrificing any of the traditional taste. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or when you have guests over and want to impress them with your culinary skills.

The beauty of Chicken Tikka Masala lies in its vibrant flavors and comforting aroma. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps to meld the spices and ingredients together beautifully, creating a dish that feels like it has been simmering for hours. With a side of basmati rice or naan, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, and all the spices (garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, chili powder, ginger, and garlic) to create a marinade.

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for even better flavor.

Once marinated, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the marinated chicken (with the marinade) and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine.

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, set it to manual high pressure for 8 minutes, and allow it to naturally release for 10 minutes after cooking. After that, carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

Finally, stir in the heavy cream and adjust salt to taste before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Extra Tips

For a more authentic flavor, consider using a combination of spices instead of pre-mixed garam masala.

Additionally, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can sauté the sauce for a few more minutes after adding the cream.

If you're short on time, you can skip the marination step, but allowing the chicken to marinate will enhance the flavor considerably.

Enjoy your delicious home-cooked Chicken Tikka Masala!

One-Pot Chicken Fajitas

One-Pot Chicken Fajitas is a delightful and easy dish that brings the flavors of traditional fajitas right to your Instant Pot. This recipe combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, all cooked together for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, it requires minimal prep time and can be served with your favorite toppings, making it a hit with the whole family.

The best part about this recipe is that everything is cooked in one pot, which means less cleanup. The Instant Pot locks in all the flavors and moisture, resulting in juicy chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables. You can serve these fajitas in warm tortillas, over rice, or even on a bed of lettuce for a healthier option.

Get ready to impress your loved ones with this simple yet delicious dish!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup chicken broth
• Tortillas, for serving
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cheese, cilantro

Cooking Instructions:

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Next, add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the pot, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Pour in the chicken broth and return the chicken to the pot. Close the lid, make certain the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and mix it back into the veggies. Serve in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings.

Extra Tips:

For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. You can also customize your fajitas by experimenting with different vegetables or proteins, such as shrimp or beef.

If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding a bit of chipotle powder to the spice mix. Enjoy your one-pot meal, and remember that leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a quick lunch the next day!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli is a deliciously easy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant broccoli, all coated in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, as it can be prepared in the Instant Pot in under 30 minutes. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a hearty meal that's both satisfying and nutritious.

Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also guarantees that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful while the broccoli retains its bright color and crunch. You can serve this dish over rice, pasta, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Broccoli is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the Instant Pot and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Place the chicken back in the pot, then close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. After the cooking time is up, carefully quick release the pressure. Open the lid and add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken. Close the lid again and cook on high pressure for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Once done, quick release the pressure again. Remove the chicken and broccoli, and set aside. Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the pot, stirring well until combined and creamy. Return the chicken and broccoli to the pot, coating them in the sauce before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for a few hours before cooking.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce after adding the cream and cheese. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Enjoy!

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry is a delicious and quick meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a savory teriyaki sauce that will keep your taste buds happy. The Instant Pot makes this recipe even easier by allowing you to cook everything in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

With its sweet and tangy flavor profile, Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry isn't only satisfying but also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. You can customize the dish with your favorite veggies or even add some extra spices to give it a unique twist. Pair this stir-fry with rice or noodles for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)

To cook the Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry in your Instant Pot, start by selecting the sauté function. Add the olive oil, and once it's hot, toss in the chicken pieces. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.

Next, add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and rice vinegar, and stir to combine.

Add the mixed vegetables on top of the chicken without stirring. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, quickly release the pressure.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry before adding it to the pot. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch.

Extra Tips: When making Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry, feel free to experiment with different vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, depending on what you have on hand.

To save time, you can use pre-cut vegetables or frozen stir-fry mixes. Additionally, if you like more heat, consider adding a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick. Enjoy your flavorful and nutritious meal!

Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa

Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the wholesome goodness of quinoa. This one-pot meal isn't only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner. The chicken becomes tender and infused with aromatic spices, while the quinoa absorbs all the delicious juices, creating a satisfying and flavorful combination.

Using the Instant Pot for this recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful meal in less time than traditional methods. With the addition of fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a wholesome meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon

Cooking Instructions:

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme, then add them to the pot, browning each side for about 3-4 minutes.

Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside. Add the quinoa, chicken broth, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and olives to the pot, stirring to combine. Place the chicken back on top of the mixture, then close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.

Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release. Remove the chicken and shred it before mixing it back into the quinoa. Finish with crumbled feta and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. You can also customize this dish by adding other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, or switch up the cheese with goat cheese for a different taste.

Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving, especially since the feta and olives can add saltiness to the dish. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken and Quinoa!

Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Stew

Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a kick of spices makes this stew a delightful option for any night of the week. Cooking it in an Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add beans for an extra protein boost. Whether you're serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, this Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Stew is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

To prepare the stew, start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil and let it heat up before adding the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Next, add the diced chicken to the pot, cooking until it's browned on all sides. Stir in the carrots, bell pepper, and celery, followed by the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper, mixing everything together well.

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Open the lid, stir in the corn, and let it sit for a few minutes to heat through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the spices for a few hours before cooking. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or potatoes based on your preference.

Adjust the spices to suit your taste, and don't hesitate to add more broth if you prefer a soupier consistency. Enjoy your stew with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal!

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto

Chicken and Mushroom Risotto is a comforting and creamy dish that's perfect for any occasion. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly easy and quick, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful risotto without the usual labor-intensive stirring.

With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich Arborio rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. This risotto not only offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, but it also provides a great way to utilize the Instant Pot's pressure cooking capabilities.

The result is a perfectly cooked, creamy risotto that's both satisfying and hearty. Let's explore this delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.

Then, add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Sauté until the chicken is lightly browned.

2. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and Arborio rice, allowing them to toast for a minute or two. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring that you scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze and prevent any burning.

Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

3. Open the lid and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines with the risotto, creating a creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Additionally, you can incorporate other vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer a richer taste, a tablespoon of butter can be stirred in at the end along with the Parmesan.

Remember to serve immediately for the best texture, as risotto tends to thicken as it cools. Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Mushroom Risotto!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in These Recipes?

Think of frozen chicken as a blank canvas for your culinary masterpiece. You can use it in these recipes, just remember to adjust cooking times, and your dinner will be deliciously ready in no time!

What Should I Do if My Chicken Is Overcooked?

If your chicken's overcooked, don't panic! Shred it and mix it into a sauce or soup for added moisture. You can also serve it over rice or in tacos for a delicious meal.

How Do I Properly Clean My Instant Pot?

Isn't it important to keep your cooking tools clean? To properly clean your Instant Pot, disassemble the lid, wash all parts with warm soapy water, and wipe the outer surface with a damp cloth.

Can I Substitute Ingredients in These Recipes?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients in these recipes. Just keep in mind that different ingredients may alter cooking times or flavors, so adjust accordingly. Experimenting can lead to delicious surprises, so don't hesitate to try!

How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken in an Instant Pot?

Time flies when you're having fun! In the Instant Pot, chicken usually cooks for about 6-10 minutes on high pressure. Just remember, depending on the cut, it might take a bit longer to reach perfection.