Are you new to cooking with an Instant Pot, or looking for some quick and delicious meal ideas to spice up your weeknights? Look no further! With its pressure-cooking magic, the Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to prepare a wide range of dishes in mere minutes. And when it comes to chicken, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering options. From comforting classics like Chicken and Rice to bold international flavors like Teriyaki Chicken and Tikka Masala, we’ve rounded up 20 easy Instant Pot chicken recipes that are perfect for busy beginners.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of Instant Pot chicken recipes, sharing our favorite dishes that are sure to become new staples in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are designed to be easy to follow and require minimal prep time, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and satisfying.
So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Chicken
Elevate your meal game with this creamy and aromatic Instant Pot Garlic Butter Chicken recipe. Tender chicken, infused with the richness of garlic butter, is ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes, until browned.
4. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken
This recipe combines the classic flavors of lemon and pepper with the convenience of Instant Pot cooking, resulting in tender and juicy chicken breasts infused with a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns, coarsely ground
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
3. Add the lemon juice, black pepper, thyme, salt, and chicken broth to the pot.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Get ready to enjoy fall-apart tender chicken with a sweet and tangy BBQ flavor, all thanks to your trusty Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 10-minute natural release
Serve: Shred the chicken with two forks and serve with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This comforting dish is a staple of home cooking, made even quicker with the help of an Instant Pot. With minimal prep work, you’ll have a flavorful and filling meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the chicken, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is browned.
3. Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Quickly cook shredded chicken tacos with minimal effort using your Instant Pot! This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) taco seasoning
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes, water, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir in any accumulated juices.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Serve: Warm tortillas, top with shredded cheese, lettuce, and your favorite toppings!
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Quickly cook up a flavorful and aromatic dish with this easy Instant Pot recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of honey, garlic, and chicken creates a sweet and savory masterpiece that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
4. Add the honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Transform classic fettuccine Alfredo into a pressure-cooked masterpiece with this easy and indulgent recipe. With tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add chicken, cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fettuccine noodles, stir to combine.
4. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and cook on “Manual” mode for 8 minutes.
6. Quick-release pressure, then open lid.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using), serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This recipe yields a deliciously flavorful and easy-to-make soup perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a warm and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, chicken broth, egg noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki chicken is a classic Japanese-inspired dish that’s surprisingly easy to make with the help of an Instant Pot. In this recipe, tender chicken breasts are cooked in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, resulting in a deliciously flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
3. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
4. Add the sauce mixture to the Instant Pot and stir to combine with the chicken.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “HIGH” pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Curry
This Indian-inspired dish is a flavorful and aromatic meal that’s ready in no time! With the Instant Pot, you can cook tender chicken and spices to perfection in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili flakes. Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Savor the flavors of sizzling fajitas without the hassle of constant stir-frying! This easy recipe yields tender chicken, bell peppers, and onions in a rich tomato-based sauce, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 fajita-sized flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Pressure cook on “MEAT/BEAN” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot with your choice of toppings and tortillas.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe that yields juicy, flavorful chicken parmesan. With minimal prep time and cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin slices
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each chicken slice in the beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
3. Place coated chicken slices in the Instant Pot in a single layer.
4. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Transform classic chicken pot pie into a pressure-cooker friendly recipe that’s easy to make and deliciously satisfying. This Instant Pot version is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook chicken until browned, about 3 minutes.
2. Add vegetables, flour, broth, cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Open valve carefully and let steam escape before opening the lid.
5. Roll out pie crusts and place on top of chicken mixture.
6. Return the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode and cook until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Marsala
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this rich and flavorful Instant Pot chicken dish, featuring sautéed mushrooms and Marsala wine. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Marsala wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove chicken and set aside. Add mushrooms, garlic, Marsala wine, and thyme to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pot, then add heavy cream. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this quick and flavorful Instant Pot recipe. Tender chicken, rich spices, and creamy tomato sauce come together in a harmonious fusion of Indian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add oil and cook the chicken for 5 minutes, or until browned.
3. Add spices, yogurt mixture, diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEAL”. Cook on “HIGH” pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve over basmati rice or naan.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
Simplify your meal prep with this flavorful and convenient Instant Pot recipe. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas (for serving)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, diced onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
6. Shred chicken with two forks and serve over corn tortillas with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
This classic comfort food dish is a staple of home cooking, made easy with the Instant Pot. In this recipe, tender chicken and fluffy dumplings come together in a delicious, one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Quick-release the steam and open the lid.
6. Mix the dumpling mix with a fork until crumbly, then add to the pot.
7. Close the lid again and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including quick-release time)
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for any busy household, and with the Instant Pot, it’s quicker than ever to get on the table. This recipe yields tender chicken, savory sauce, and perfectly cooked vegetables in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion until translucent.
2. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and chicken; cook until browned.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
Savor the bold flavors of this Instant Pot version of chicken adobo, a staple dish from the Philippines. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken, savory soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves for a deliciously rich and tangy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, sugar, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Stir Fry
Quick and Delicious Instant Pot Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
This recipe is a great way to get a healthy and flavorful meal on the table quickly. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can enjoy a tasty chicken stir fry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 2-3 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles. Enjoy!
Summary
Get cooking with ease and speed! This collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make Instant Pot chicken recipes is perfect for busy beginners. From classic comfort food to international flavors, these pressure cooker recipes are quick, flavorful, and sure to please. Try Garlic Butter Chicken, Lemon Pepper Chicken, BBQ Chicken, or one of the many other mouth-watering options. With minimal prep time and no fuss, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. Perfect for busy home cooks, this collection is a must-have for any Instant Pot enthusiast!
