chicken instant pot recipe
The Best chicken instant pot recipe
My kids eat it every time, and honestly, they don’t even notice how healthy it is. The Instant Pot keeps the chicken moist and juicy, and the spices—cumin, paprika, garlic—give it a little kick without being overpowering. For my family, this isn’t just dinner; it’s a way to get more protein and fiber without feeling like we’re sacrificing taste. I’ll throw in some frozen peas or corn, or even some diced bell peppers if I’m feeling fancy, and it’s still a winner. And because it’s so hands-off, I can prep the rest of the meal while it’s cooking—maybe some roasted sweet potatoes or a quick salad. It’s the kind of recipe that makes me feel like I’m doing something good for my family without any extra stress. Plus, when we have company over, it’s always a crowd-pleaser because it’s flavorful but not too heavy. No one ever complains about eating chicken, and this way, they’re getting all the nutrition they need without having to think about it.
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Chicken
A quick and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup cooked white rice or quinoa
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 5 minutes. -
2
Place the Instant Pot on the high-pressure setting. Add chicken to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in liquid if needed (add a little broth if necessary). -
3
Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once pressure releases naturally, let it rest for 5 minutes. -
4
While the chicken cooks, melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in chicken broth, soy sauce, thyme, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice. -
5
After the chicken rests, carefully open the Instant Pot. Pour the sauce from the pot into the pan with the garlic butter mixture. Stir well to combine. If using add-ins like peas or onions, add them now. -
6
If serving with rice or quinoa, cook according to package instructions and mix with the chicken and sauce. Serve hot.
🔧Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra tenderness, slightly pound the chicken with a meat mallet before cooking.
- Adjust the pressure time based on your Instant Pot model if needed.
- Substitute chicken broth with water if preferred.
- Make ahead: Cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently before serving.
Variations
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result.
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Garlic Butter Chicken Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Garlic Butter Chicken
What is the best way to prepare chicken for instant pot chicken recipe?
To get the best results, rinse the chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts) under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. For tenderizing, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (like thyme, rosemary, or paprika) for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
How long should I cook the chicken in the Instant Pot?
For bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks, cook on High Pressure for 7 minutes, then natural release for 10 minutes. For bone-in chicken breasts, use High Pressure for 5 minutes followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. For chicken breasts without bones, you can also try a quick pressure cook for 5 minutes and then check for doneness (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! If using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken, simply chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the Instant Pot with your broth and seasonings. Cook on High Pressure for 3 minutes, then natural release for 5 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken tender.
What broth or liquid should I use for the Instant Pot chicken recipe?
The best liquid for this recipe is chicken broth (homemade or store-bought), but you can also use chicken stock, water, or even vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Avoid using too much liquid, as it can make the chicken soggy. A good rule of thumb is 1 cup of liquid per 2–3 pounds of chicken.
How do quick-release the Instant Pot after cooking chicken?
To quick-release the Instant Pot after cooking chicken, carefully open the valve to the venting position (not the release valve). This allows steam to escape quickly, which helps the pressure drop faster. If you’re unsure, you can also switch to natural release, which is safer for delicate proteins like chicken. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked before releasing pressure.
