Hello there, foodies! Are you in the mood for some chicken recipes that will tantalize your taste buds? You’ve come to the right place! We have compiled a list of 10 mouth-watering Instant Pot chicken recipe ideas that you must try at home. Instant Pots have revolutionized cooking in recent years, allowing you to get scrumptious meals in a jiffy. So, put on your apron, grab your Instant Pot, and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen!
Whether you’re a busy mom, college student, or a working professional, these recipes will make your life much easier. You don’t have to be a pro to cook these dishes; the Instant Pot will do most of the work for you. All you need is some simple ingredients, and you’re good to go. So, let’s get cracking and discover some lip-smacking recipes that will satisfy your cravings.
Why Chicken Recipes in Instant Pot are Popular
Chicken is a staple protein in many diets around the world, and it is no wonder that it is a popular ingredient in many instant pot recipes. Instant pots have revolutionized the way we cook, and it is no surprise that it has quickly become a kitchen favorite. Cooking chicken in the instant pot is not only efficient, but it also produces tender and juicy results. Here are a few reasons why chicken recipes in the instant pot are so popular.
Efficiency and Convenience
Cooking chicken in the Instant Pot is quicker and more efficient. It is perfect for busy individuals who do not have time to cook elaborate meals but still want to have a homemade meal. The Instant Pot also requires less cleanup compared to other cooking methods, like grilling or sautéing. With just one pot, you can cook and serve your chicken, reducing the number of dishes you need to clean up afterward. Additionally, the instant pot often has a warm or slow cook feature, which allows the chicken to cook while you attend to other activities may it be household chores or even resting after a long day at work.
Tender and Juicy Results
The pressure cooker allows the chicken to cook perfectly and evenly. The instant pot traps steam and pressure, which makes cooking times shorter, and also allows the ingredients to absorb more flavor. As a result, the chicken turns out juicy and tender more so than other cooking methods. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking method can transform even frozen chicken breasts into fully cooked and flavorful meat. Additionally, the instant pot often has an option for sous vide cooking to achieve the perfect texture of the meat.
Versatility in Flavor and Style
The Instant Pot can be used to cook various chicken recipes, from classic dishes to ethnic cuisines. This kitchen appliance has a wide range of cooking features that can help you achieve different flavors and textures when cooking chicken. You can make your family’s favorite curry or stew, or you can explore new and different cuisines that you’ve never tried before. Additionally, the Instant Pot can be used to cook healthy dishes such as chicken breasts, boneless chicken thighs, as well as and other chicken pieces, along with your preferred vegetables. It also allows you to infuse rich and deep flavors into the meat when cooking.
In summary, the Instant Pot’s efficiency, convenience, and versatility in flavor and style have made it a popular kitchen appliance across the globe. With the ability to produce tender and juicy chicken results in a matter of minutes, it’s no surprise that instant pot chicken recipes continue to grow in popularity.
Preparing Chicken for the Instapot
Cooking chicken in an Instapot is a quick and easy way to get a tasty meal on the table in a flash. However, there are a few things you need to consider when preparing your chicken for the Instapot. Here are some tips to follow:
Choose the Right Cut
Choosing the right cut of chicken is crucial when cooking in an Instapot. Different cuts require different cooking times and temperatures, so it’s important to choose the right one for your recipe. The most common cuts of chicken used in Instapot recipes are boneless, skinless chicken breasts and thighs.
Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, making them perfect for recipes that call for shorter cooking times. Meanwhile, chicken thighs are slightly fattier and require a longer cooking time to become tender and juicy.
Seasoning and Marinating
Seasoning your chicken before cooking is essential for flavor, and marinating can further enhance the taste and tenderness. To season your chicken, you can use a simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other herbs or spices that you prefer. For marinating the chicken, consider using a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite seasonings like rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
Marinating your chicken for at least an hour can also help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Just be sure to pat it dry before placing it in the Instapot, as excess moisture can prevent it from browning evenly.
Searing for Extra Flavor
Searing the chicken in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking can add a layer of flavor and texture to the dish. To sear, simply add a small amount of oil to the inner pot, heat it over the sauté function, and brown the chicken on both sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to pressure cook with the rest of the ingredients.
Not only does searing add flavor, but it also helps to seal in the juices of the chicken, ensuring that it stays moist and tender during the cooking process.
Now that you know how to prepare your chicken for the Instapot, you’re ready to start cooking up some delicious and flavorful meals in no time!
Recipes to Try in Your Instapot
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance perfect for whipping up delicious meals with minimal effort. From classic comfort foods to exotic international cuisine, the possibilities are endless. Here are three chicken recipes to try in your Instapot.
Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
You can never go wrong with a bowl of classic chicken noodle soup. This recipe offers a twist on the traditional by using the Instapot, making it easier and faster to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
To start, turn on the sauté function of your Instapot and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and onion. Cook until the chicken is browned on both sides. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and sauté for a few minutes. Then, add the chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
Securely close the Instapot and set to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once finished, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Open the Instapot and remove the chicken breasts. Shred the chicken and place it back into the pot. Add the egg noodles and cook on the sauté function until tender.
This classic soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Butter Chicken
Butter chicken is a popular Indian dish known for its rich, creamy, and indulgent sauce. Making it in the Instapot is a game-changer as it allows the flavors to meld together wonderfully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
Start by turning the sauté function of your Instapot and adding the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the chicken and sauté until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the garlic and spices, and stir until fragrant. Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir. Add the chicken back into the pot and secure the lid. Set to high pressure for 8 minutes.
Once finished, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Remove the lid and add the heavy cream and Greek yogurt, and stir until well combined. Turn on the sauté function and cook until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes. Serve with rice and naan bread.
This Instapot butter chicken is a winner for any Indian cuisine enthusiast.
Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
If you’re looking for a low-carb and spicy option, give these buffalo chicken lettuce wraps a try. They’re a great option for a quick snack or light meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp. honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 head of lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 stalk of celery, sliced
- Ranch dressing for dipping (optional)
Start by turning the sauté function of your Instapot and adding the chicken breasts. Sauté until lightly browned on both sides. In a small bowl, mix together the hot sauce, melted butter, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and secure the lid. Set to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once finished, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
To assemble, take a lettuce leaf and fill it with the shredded chicken, grated carrot, and sliced celery. Roll up and enjoy with ranch dressing on the side if desired.
These buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are a spicy and refreshing option for any occasion.
Tips for Success when Cooking Chicken in an Instapot
If you’re new to using an Instapot or pressure cooker, don’t worry – these devices are extremely safe and efficient when used correctly. Here are some helpful tips to ensure delicious and perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Follow Recipes Carefully
When using an Instapot, accuracy is key. Be sure to read and follow your recipe carefully, measuring out all ingredients before adding them to the pot. This will help to avoid over or under seasoning, and ensure that your chicken is cooking in the correct proportions of liquid and spices.
Allow for Natural Release
When the cooking time for your chicken is complete, resist the temptation to immediately release the pressure from the pot. Allowing the pressure to release naturally – which generally takes around 10-15 minutes – will help the chicken to retain its moisture and tenderness. If you’re short on time, you can use a quick-release valve on your pot, but be aware that this may lead to slightly less juicy meat.
Use a Thermometer
It’s important to ensure that your chicken has been cooked through to a safe temperature before eating. Rather than relying on vague cooking times, invest in an instant-read thermometer to take the guesswork out of determining when your chicken is ready. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that all potentially harmful bacteria have been destroyed.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly cooked and juicy chicken dishes in your Instapot. Happy cooking!
Thanks for Dropping By!
We hope you found these 10 mouth-watering chicken recipe Instapot ideas helpful and easy to follow. Cooking chicken has never been easier with these instant pot recipes! Don’t forget to bookmark our page and visit us again as we continuously update our recipes and provide more cooking hacks and tips for you to enjoy.
If you have any comments or suggestions, feel free to drop us a message. Share this article with your friends and family, and let them explore the tempting chicken recipes and enjoy a delicious meal together. Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you soon!
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen chicken in the instant pot recipes?
Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time and add some extra liquid to prevent burning.
2. Are instant pot recipes healthier compared to other cooking methods?
Instant pot cooking retains more nutrients and vitamins in the food, making it a healthier alternative.
3. How do I clean the instant pot after cooking?
Simply wash it with soap and water, or you can use the dishwasher.
4. Can I use other types of meat for these recipes?
Yes, you can. These recipes work great with beef, pork, or lamb.
5. Can I adjust the spice level in these recipes?
Absolutely! Increase or decrease the amount of spices to suit your taste preference.
6. Can I substitute some of the ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can. Feel free to use alternative ingredients or omit some of them if you prefer.
7. Are these recipes kid-friendly?
Most of them are, but you can always adjust the spice level or omit certain ingredients to make them more kid-friendly.
8. Can I cook multiple chicken recipes at the same time?
You can, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and evenly distribute the ingredients.
9. Do I need to use a specific instant pot model?
No, these recipes work with any instant pot model.
10. Can I store the leftovers?
Yes, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
