There’s something truly special about crafting meals that not only satisfy the taste buds but bring the family together at the table. I love making Instant Pot chicken recipes because they’re a delightful blend of ease, flavor, and variety.
Regardless of if it’s the zesty kick of Lemon Herb Chicken or the creamy richness of Tuscan Chicken, these dishes are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Ready to discover your new favorite family dinner?
Classic Lemon Herb Chicken
For a quick and flavorful dish, make a classic lemon herb chicken using an Instant Pot. The juicy chicken is infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, cooked to perfection in a fraction of the usual time. This dish is perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal that everyone at the table will enjoy. Additionally, this method allows you to easily prepare savory chicken and gravy alongside your chicken, providing a delicious sauce that complements the dish beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried mixed herbs (like thyme, oregano, and rosemary)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Pour the olive oil into the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Brown the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, then add lemon slices, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, seal the lid, set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes, and after cooking, let it naturally release steam for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
To guarantee the chicken doesn’t dry out, avoid adjusting the cooking time as overcooking can lead to dryness. For additional flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the lemon herb mixture for up to 2 hours before cooking.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Thighs
For a fiery and flavorful meal, try spicy buffalo chicken thighs made in an Instant Pot. These chicken thighs are perfect for adding a kick to your dinner, seasoned with spicy buffalo sauce and tangy spices. This quick and easy recipe guarantees fully tender and juicy chicken, making it a great choice for spice enthusiasts. Delicious chicken thighs can be made with minimal effort using an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, adding butter to melt, and briefly brown chicken thighs. Add buffalo sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then pour in the chicken broth. Seal the lid and cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes, allowing a natural steam release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
Verify the chicken thighs are well-coated in the buffalo sauce before cooking to maximize flavor. If more heat is desired, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce prior to serving for an extra spicy kick.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken
For a rich and satisfying meal, try creamy Tuscan chicken made in an Instant Pot, offering a delightful combination of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a luxurious creamy sauce. This dish provides a quick way to enjoy Italian-inspired flavors with minimal effort, resulting in a delicious and comforting meal perfect for any night of the week. Incorporating healthy ingredients into your meals can help boost overall nutrition and well-being.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, adding olive oil to brown chicken breasts seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream, then seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, allowing a natural steam release for 5 minutes. Stir in baby spinach and Parmesan cheese until wilted and creamy before serving.
For best flavor, verify the sun-dried tomatoes are well-plumped before adding to the pot and consider adding a splash of white wine for depth. Stirring the spinach just before serving helps maintain its vibrant green color, adding visual appeal to the dish.
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Breasts
Create a mouthwatering Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Breasts using your Instant Pot for a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. By combining tender chicken breasts with a rich, savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, you can achieve an irresistible flavor profile that pairs well with steamed rice or vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Additionally, cooking in the Instant Pot helps preserve the moisture of the chicken, resulting in a truly juicy texture.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, adding vegetable oil to brown the chicken breasts on both sides. Mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a small bowl; pour over the chicken. Seal the lid and pressure-cook on high for 7 minutes, followed by a quick release, then remove chicken and thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry on sauté mode before serving.
To enhance the flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for up to an hour before cooking. To elevate the dish, garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving for an added crunch and freshness.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
For a deliciously crispy treat, try making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings in your Instant Pot. This recipe combines the irresistible flavors of garlic, buttery parmesan cheese, and tender chicken wings for a tempting appetizer or main dish. Utilizing the Instant Pot guarantees that the wings are cooked to perfection, and a quick broil in the oven translates to crispy skin that will have everyone asking for more. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing to complement the savory flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, browning the chicken wings in olive oil in batches. Season with salt and pepper, add garlic and chicken broth before sealing the lid, and pressure-cook on high for 8 minutes with a quick release. Toss wings in melted butter and parmesan, then broil until crispy, sprinkling with parsley before serving.
For a deeper flavor, let the wings marinate with salt, garlic, and pepper for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer crispier wings, pat them dry before browning and ascertain they are laid flat on a baking sheet while broiling. Also, don’t forget that using an Instant Pot can greatly reduce your cooking time while retaining moisture and tenderness in the chicken.
Honey Garlic Drumsticks
For a sweet and savory delight, try Honey Garlic Drumsticks in your Instant Pot. This dish marries the sweetness of honey with the robust taste of garlic, creating a succulent and flavorful experience. The Instant Pot guarantees the chicken drumsticks are cooked quickly and evenly, while a final brush of honey garlic glaze enhances their delectable taste. Serve these juicy drumsticks over a bed of rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal. Additionally, using the pressure cooking method can significantly reduce cooking time while ensuring that flavors are locked in.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
In the Instant Pot, set to sauté and brown drumsticks in olive oil. Mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and pepper, and pour over drumsticks. Seal lid and pressure-cook on high for 10 minutes with a natural release. Mix cornstarch and water, stir into sauce in the pot until thickened, and garnish with green onions before serving.
For best results, marinate the drumsticks in soy sauce, honey, and garlic for an hour before cooking. This will bolster flavor, and patting the chicken dry before browning will help achieve a nice initial sear on the drumsticks.
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any day. The combination of tender chicken, earthy wild rice, and a medley of vegetables creates a nourishing soup that’s both satisfying and flavorful. An Instant Pot makes this recipe easy and efficient to prepare, yielding a warm bowl of goodness in no time. Serve it with crusty bread for a delightful, cozy meal. Additionally, this soup is reminiscent of Instant Pot Chicken Noodle Soup, making it a family favorite for those chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup wild rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Begin by adding all ingredients into the Instant Pot, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the liquid. Seal the lid and pressure-cook on high for 25 minutes, followed by a quick release. Remove the chicken to shred, then return it to the pot, stirring well before serving.
For added creaminess, stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk after cooking. Furthermore, letting the soup sit for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Easy Chicken Tikka Masala
Easy Chicken Tikka Masala is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings the vibrant flavors of India to your table with ease. Using an Instant Pot, you can achieve the rich, creamy sauce and tender pieces of chicken with minimal effort and time. Combining various spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk creates a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for serving over basmati rice or with naan bread for an authentic dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Marinate the chicken in yogurt, garam masala, turmeric, paprika, cayenne, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes. Heat oil in the Instant Pot on sauté, adding marinated chicken to sear, then pour in tomatoes and coconut milk. Seal the lid, pressure-cook on high for 15 minutes, and let naturally release for 10 minutes before serving.
For peak flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. Consider adjusting spices to suit your heat preference and sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a fresh finish. Additionally, serving with fluffy basmati rice can elevate the meal further.
White Chicken Chili
White Chicken Chili is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with creamy beans, warm spices, and tangy lime. Using an Instant Pot allows you to prepare this comforting meal quickly and effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve this chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor and texture. Additionally, this dish is a great source of protein, making it an excellent choice for healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Sauté the onion and garlic in the Instant Pot with olive oil until translucent, then add chicken, diced green chilies, cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Pour in chicken broth, beans, and corn, sealing the lid; pressure-cook on high for 15 minutes followed by a quick release. Shred the chicken with two forks, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving with lime wedges and cilantro.
For a thicker chili, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the beans after cooking. Add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat if desired.
Barbecue Pulled Chicken
Barbecue Pulled Chicken is a savory and satisfying dish featuring juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce. Using the Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time while infusing the chicken with incredible depth of flavor, making this dish a great option for any meal. Serve the pulled chicken on hamburger buns or over a bed of rice for a complete and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns or rice for serving
Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the Instant Pot, then add chicken breasts, barbecue sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, followed by a quick release. Carefully remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return to the Instant Pot, stirring to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste.
For a richer flavor, you can brown the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot using the sauté function before adding the rest of the ingredients. Let the pulled chicken rest for a few minutes in the sauce after shredding for enhanced flavor absorption. This dish pairs perfectly with Instant Pot Salsa Chicken, which is another quick and easy family favorite!
Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Moroccan Chicken Tagine is a flavorful, aromatic dish that captures the essence of North African cuisine, traditionally slow-cooked in a tagine pot. With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy this delightful meal with its fragrant spices, tender chicken, and dried fruits much quicker, without sacrificing the authentic taste. Serve with couscous or warm pita bread for a comforting and exotic meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
In the Instant Pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent, then add the spices to bloom. Incorporate the chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, broth, apricots, and olives; lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes with a natural release. Carefully open the lid, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with cilantro before serving.
To enhance the flavors, you can toast the spices in the oil before adding the other ingredients—a process that elevates the aroma. Make sure the apricots are roughly chopped to integrate fully with the sauce for a sweet and savory balance.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, savory dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce—all in one pot. This quick and easy version uses the Instant Pot to infuse flavors and simplify the cooking process, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley for garnish
Begin by sautéing the garlic in olive oil in the Instant Pot. Add the cubed chicken, salt, and pepper; stir, then pour in the broth and layer the pasta on top. Seal the pot and set to high pressure for 4 minutes, followed by a quick release. Stir in the cream and Parmesan until smooth, then season and sprinkle with parsley.
Ensure the pasta is evenly spread in the pot and fully submerged in the broth to avoid clumping. If desired, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or toss in some spinach for extra nutrition before serving.
Shredded Salsa Verde Chicken Tacos
Shredded Salsa Verde Chicken Tacos are a vibrant and zesty dish perfect for taco night. Using the Instant Pot, this recipe quickly transforms chicken thighs into tender, flavor-packed pieces ready to be nestled in soft tortillas and topped with your favorite garnishes. The combination of salsa verde and spices creates an unforgettable taste that elevates any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas for serving
Place chicken thighs, salsa verde, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot. Seal the pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes followed by a natural release. Remove the chicken, shred it with forks, and mix it back with the sauce before serving in tortillas.
For maximum flavor, make sure that the chicken is evenly coated in the salsa verde mixture before sealing the Instant Pot. Serve the tacos with fresh lime wedges, chopped cilantro, and diced onions for an added burst of freshness and color.
Savory Chicken Pot Pie Filling
Instant Pot Savory Chicken Pot Pie Filling is a deliciously comforting dish you can prepare with ease. Instead of a traditional pie, this filling focuses on the creamy, hearty mixture that satisfies your craving for something warm and rich. The Instant Pot infuses the chicken and vegetables with savory flavors, making it an irresistible companion to buttery crusts or puff pastry.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Place chicken, broth, carrots, peas, potatoes, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot. Seal and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes; then quick release. Shred chicken, combine with cream, cornstarch mixed with water, and stir until thickened.
For added flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in the Instant Pot before adding the remaining ingredients. If you prefer a thicker texture, let the mixture sauté longer after pressure cooking until it reaches your desired consistency.
Lemon Garlic Mediterranean Chicken
For a taste of the Mediterranean, try this Lemon Garlic Mediterranean Chicken in your Instant Pot. This dish combines tender chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, making it a vibrant, flavorful meal. Paired with herbs and vegetables, it captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for a nutritious dinner.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Place the chicken thighs, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, cherry tomatoes, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot, pouring chicken broth over the top. Seal and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes; then perform a quick release. Stir in olive oil and serve.
For best results, marinate the chicken in lemon and garlic for one hour before cooking. Adjust the level of olives based on your preference for a more or less briny flavor.
