Are you a beginner looking to get started with cooking delicious and easy meals using your Instant Pot? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering Instant Pot chicken recipes that are quick, simple, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Chicken and Rice or trying something new like Chicken Curry, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From flavorful dishes like Lemon Garlic Chicken and Honey Garlic Chicken to comforting soups like Chicken Noodle Soup and hearty meals like Chicken Alfredo, we’ve got you covered. And the best part? Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy home cooks or those new to cooking.
So, which recipe will you start with?
Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this bright and citrusy recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This Instant Pot recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs to create a moist and tender chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp 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 minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken, lemon juice, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Open the lid and check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready to enjoy fall-off-the-bone tender BBQ chicken thighs with minimal effort using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken thighs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 12-15 minutes.
4. Quick release the pressure by moving the valve to “Venting”.
5. Open the lid and brush the chicken thighs with BBQ sauce.
6. Return the lid to the Instant Pot and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes (plus 5 minutes searing)
Enjoy your deliciously tender and flavorful BBQ chicken thighs!
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Quick and easy dinner solution that’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp 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 and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Transform your dinner routine with this quick and flavorful Instant Pot recipe! Tender chicken, crispy tacos, and fresh toppings come together for a meal that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil and cook chicken until browned (3-4 minutes).
2. Add diced tomatoes, water, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. Shred chicken with two forks. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing shredded chicken onto tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta
A comforting and creamy pasta dish loaded with chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, and pasta. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the frozen vegetables, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. 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 before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Curry
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful Instant Pot chicken curry recipe. This aromatic dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the onions and cook until they’re translucent.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Pressure cook on “HIGH” for 10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey, garlic, and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breasts, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” 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.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and serve with the sauce spooned over.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
This Instant Pot recipe yields a delicious and hearty chicken noodle soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons 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, noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes (including pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
This comforting dish combines tender chicken, rich fettuccine noodles, and a velvety Alfredo sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions.
2. Add chicken, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
4. Quick-release the pressure, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 8 minutes (high pressure) + quick-release
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken, this Instant Pot recipe cooks up tender and flavorful results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– 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 inner 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 teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
5. Add water to the pot, then 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 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of fajitas in a fraction of the time! This Instant Pot recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy bell peppers, and savory spices for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10-12 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Open the lid, stir in any accumulated juices, and serve with warm tortillas and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie
In this recipe, we’ll create a delicious chicken pot pie using the Instant Pot, with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a crispy puff pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, flour, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on High Pressure for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Roll out the puff pastry sheet to fit the Instant Pot. Place it on top of the filling, pressing edges to seal.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Chili
This hearty and flavorful recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, rich beans, and spices cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the chicken, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chicken broth. 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 before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Get ready for a spicy and savory snack with this creamy Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip! Perfect for game days, parties, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and add chicken, cooking until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add cream cheese, ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 5 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
A flavorful and convenient meal that combines tender chicken, creamy beans, and savory spices in a single bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet fajita seasoning
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and fajita seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add black beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve the chicken mixture in bowls and top with shredded cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or spray
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot with 2 tablespoons of cooking oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the enchilada sauce and stir to combine.
6. Place 2-3 tortillas on top of the chicken mixture.
7. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode for 10 minutes at high pressure.
8. Quick-release the steam, then open the lid.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes at high pressure + 10-15 minutes natural release
Instant Pot Chicken Stir-Fry
Get ready for a quick and flavorful meal with this Instant Pot Chicken Stir-Fry recipe! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken, garlic, and olive oil to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed veggies, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore
Get ready for a flavorful and comforting meal with this Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore recipe. This classic Italian dish is now simplified to fit your busy schedule.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 onion, garlic, mushrooms, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore!
Summary
Discover the simplicity of cooking chicken dishes with the Instant Pot! This article shares 18 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired meals, these instant pot chicken recipes are quick, simple, and mouthwatering. Try making Lemon Garlic Chicken, BBQ Chicken Thighs, Chicken and Rice, or one of the many other options. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, you’ll be a pro in no time!
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