Are you a beginner to cooking with an Instant Pot? Or are you just looking for some delicious and easy-to-make chicken recipes to add to your repertoire? Either way, you’re in luck! The Instant Pot is an incredibly versatile kitchen appliance that can help you cook a wide variety of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to tender meats and flavorful sauces. And one of the best things about it? Chicken!
Chicken is one of the most popular proteins to cook with an Instant Pot, and for good reason: it’s easy to prepare, cooks quickly, and can be flavored in a countless number of ways. From classic comfort foods like chicken and dumplings or chicken pot pie, to international-inspired dishes like chicken curry or chicken fajitas, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following article, we’ll take you through 20 easy Instant Pot chicken recipes that are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these delicious and easy-to-make recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Instant Pot Garlic Butter Chicken
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful chicken dish with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it’s quick to prepare and cooks to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
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 breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Quick-release the steam, then open the lid.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken
Get ready for a burst of citrusy flavor with this simple and delicious Instant Pot recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, chicken broth, and lemon pepper seasoning.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken and add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve 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, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good meal with this easy and delicious Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe! This tender and juicy chicken dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp 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 breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. Add the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. 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 before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Shred the chicken with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with any remaining oil. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and close the lid. 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, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
Quickly cook chicken breasts with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce using your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken, teriyaki sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta
Quickly cook a delicious and creamy pasta dish with chicken using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8 oz pasta of choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and cook the chicken until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the pot and check the pasta’s doneness. If needed, cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos with this simple and speedy recipe using your Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) taco seasoning
– 1/4 cup water
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add chicken breasts, garlic, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and water to the Instant Pot. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with shredded chicken, cheese, lettuce, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Satisfy your cravings with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the tenderness of chicken. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, until browned on both sides.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and 1 cup of water.
5. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Get ready for a comforting and flavorful dinner with this easy-to-make Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo recipe. This creamy pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the fettuccine pasta, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a quick release.
5. Open the lid and stir the pasta to ensure it’s well coated with the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup
Quick and Comforting Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
This recipe yields a warm and satisfying chicken noodle soup with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick pick-me-up when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked 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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, chicken broth, 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.
7. Open the lid and add the egg noodles. Stir to combine and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Curry
Transform the flavors of India into a delicious and quick meal with this easy Instant Pot chicken curry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– 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 the onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the chicken, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). 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.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and easy meal with this Instant Pot chicken fajita recipe! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this dish is packed with tender chicken, crispy peppers, and savory spices.
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 packet of fajita seasoning
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– 8-10 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
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 until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion, bell peppers, garlic, fajita seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Quick-release the pressure and open the lid.
6. Serve the fajitas with tortillas, and add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus sauté time)
Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and flavorful Instant Pot recipe that combines crispy chicken, melted mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Place the coated chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, seam-side down.
4. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken and add mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
6. Carefully open the lid and remove the chicken breasts. Serve hot with pasta or garlic bread.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Transform traditional chicken pot pie into a pressure-cooker-friendly recipe that’s quick and easy to make. This Instant Pot version combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky crust in a fraction of the time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken, flour, and thyme; cook until browned.
3. Add the frozen vegetables, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Open the lid and stir in the pie crust, breaking it up into crumbs.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Marsala
Experience the classic Italian-American flavors of Chicken Marsala, now simplified and cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. This recipe yields tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich marsala wine sauce, all with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup marsala wine
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour in marsala wine, chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid, set valve to “Sealing”, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Stir Fry
A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor! This Instant Pot chicken stir fry is a game-changer for busy home cooks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and your favorite stir-fry veggies)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white 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 the chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
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: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Get ready to devour this flavorful Mexican-inspired dish made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and soft tortillas. This Instant Pot recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup canned enchilada sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add tortillas, diced tomatoes with green chilies, enchilada sauce, and cilantro. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid, set valve to “Sealing,” and cook on “High Pressure” for 5 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally (10-15 minutes). Then, open and stir in shredded cheese until melted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s ready in no time! This Instant Pot recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook chicken until browned, about 2 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Add tortilla strips and stir gently to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken and Dumplings
Quickly cook up a comforting bowl of homemade chicken and dumplings using your Instant Pot. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups milk
– Dumpling mix (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Quick-release the pressure and open the lid.
6. Add the dumpling mix and stir gently. Close the lid again and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore
This recipe is a modern take on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender chicken, juicy vegetables, and rich flavors cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore!
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these 20 easy and delicious Instant Pot chicken recipes perfect for beginners! From classic comfort food like chicken and rice, to international flavors like teriyaki chicken, there’s something for everyone. Try out flavorful dishes like garlic butter chicken, lemon pepper chicken, or BBQ chicken, or opt for creamy pasta or hearty soup options. These quick and easy recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
