Easy Instant Pot Chicken
Instant Pot Chicken is like that one cozy sweater you dig out every fall—it just feels right. It’s quick, comforting, and hands-down delightful, capturing that essence of satisfied sighs after every bite. Why fuss over tedious cooking methods when you can press a button and walk away? This recipe has your back on those hectic weeknights when cooking feels more like a chore than a joy.
This dish has become a staple in our household, particularly because my husband has an appetite for anything with chicken. On Sundays, when we’re caught in the whirlwind of family activities, sports practices, and impromptu playdates, there’s something magical about knowing dinner’s working itself out in the kitchen without my constant watchful eye. The aroma fills our home, welcoming everyone to the table just in time for supper.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Instant Pot Chicken
– Foolproof and forgiving. You almost can’t mess this up—no matter what.
– Saves your evening when time feels shorter than the elevator music at the mall.
– Adaptable in every which way, like adding a dash of whatever mood you’re in.
– It’s the kinda meal that makes you feel like a wizard for pulling it together so effortlessly.
This recipe was a total lifesaver on a busy weeknight! The chicken came out super juicy and flavorful, and I loved how simple the steps were. Definitely adding this to my regular dinner rotation!
How to Make It
Picture yourself chatting away, ladle in hand, while tossing ingredients into your magical pot. Begin with your chicken—thighs or breasts, pick your favorite. Add a splash of good soy sauce, some brown sugar for that caramel-like hug of sweetness, and garlic. Always more garlic. Maybe a bit of ginger if you’re feeling extra. Flip on that Instant Pot, set it to high, and let it sing its steam serenade. Go, enjoy a glass of wine, catch the latest episode of whatever-show-is-trendy, and return to a home filled with savory warmth.
Ingredient Notes
– Chicken: Whether you favor thighs for their juiciness or breasts for their leanness, both work wonders. Just don’t use your special occasion bandaids after.
– Soy Sauce: Just like ketchup at a diner, it gives life to everything. Don’t skip it, unless you enjoy life dull.
– Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness, feels like a flirtatious wink in taste.
– Garlic: Embrace the garlic with abandon. Sorry, vampires.
Recipe Steps
1. Prepare chicken thighs or breasts, as you prefer.
2. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, and as much garlic as your heart desires into the Instant Pot.
3. Toss in ginger for some extra zing if you’re in that mood.
4. Set the Instant Pot to high for about 15 minutes.
5. Relax while your dinner gets to work.
6. Release pressure carefully, then serve.
What to Serve It With
Classics like steaming rice or quinoa. For some crunch, add steamed broccoli or stir-fried veggies. Bread on the side works great for that last-sauce-swipe—don’t let it go to waste!
Tips & Mistakes
– Avoid peeking before the timer is up.
– Too sweet? Cut down the sugar next time; I’ve learned this the hard way.
– Overcooked your broccoli? Stop the crime, add it after!
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, perfect for midnight noshing or next-day breakfast. Tastes just as good cold—unless you want your chicken to forget how tender it once was. Still hungry in the AM? Pour over toast with a poached egg. Zero judgment here.
Variations and Substitutions
Get playful—maybe swap honey for the brown sugar, or experiment with spices like smoked paprika. Out of soy sauce? Tamari’s the next best bet. And I’ve tossed in pineapple chunks when craving a tropical escape (only good if they’ve reached sweetness nirvana).
Frequently Asked Questions
Remember it later
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Easy Instant Pot Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth low sodium
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil until shimmering.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear chicken breasts in the Instant Pot for 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
- Add chicken broth to the pot and secure the lid.
- Set Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow natural release for 5 minutes.
- Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Featured Comments
“New favorite here — absolutely loved. flavor-packed was spot on.”
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“This festive recipe was turned out amazing — the family favorite really stands out. Thanks!”
“This colorful recipe was family favorite — the quick bite really stands out. Thanks!”
“Impressed! Clear steps and turned out amazing results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and will make again results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Made this last night and it was will make again. Loved how the zesty came together.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and family favorite results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and will make again results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Made this last night and it was turned out amazing. Loved how the flavor-packed came together.”
