How to Cook Instant Pot Chicken Breast: Fast, Moist, and Flavorful
An effortless approach to perfectly seasoned, tender protein that upgrades any dinner plate.
Introduction
After a long day, who wants to spend hours in the kitchen? With an Instant Pot, you can have moist, flavorful chicken breasts ready in about half an hour—ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a quick protein boost for salads and casseroles. This recipe is a staple that can be dressed up or down depending on your needs. Let’s dive into how to make the best Instant Pot chicken breasts.
Why Cook Chicken Breasts in an Instant Pot?
There are several reasons why cooking chicken breasts in the Instant Pot is a winning strategy:
- Speed: From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Moisture: Pressure cooking keeps chicken breasts juicy, even though they’re lean and prone to drying out.
- Versatility: Use the cooked chicken in salads, soups, sandwiches, casseroles, or on its own with a simple sauce.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Cook a batch on Sunday and enjoy throughout the week in various dishes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for perfectly seasoned Instant Pot chicken breasts:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 1/4 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chicken stock (or water)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for finishing)
Tip: If you’re prepping chicken for meal prep or plan to use it in other recipes, you can skip the paprika and thyme for a milder flavor. Just use 1/2 teaspoon black pepper instead of lemon pepper.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, lemon pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously. This step lays the foundation for flavor, and it only takes a minute.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Preheat your Instant Pot using the Sauté function for 2–3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sear two chicken breasts for about 3 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown. Remove to a plate, add the remaining oil, and repeat with the other two breasts. The goal here is to build flavor, not cook the chicken through.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Deglaze
Turn off the Sauté mode. Pour in the chicken stock and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds depth to the flavor. Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange all four chicken breasts on top.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Cover the Instant Pot with the lid and lock it. Make sure the steam release valve is sealed. Select high pressure and set the timer for 4 minutes. When the timer goes off, allow for a natural release for 4 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure. Remove the chicken to a plate.
Step 5: Make the Sauce (Optional)
If you want to serve the chicken with a simple sauce, remove the trivet and return the pot to Sauté mode. In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and add it to the pot, stirring until the mixture comes to a boil. Simmer, whisking frequently, for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens. For extra flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving.
What others are reading
How to Use Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
Cooked Instant Pot chicken breasts are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas:
- Chicken Salad: Chop or shred the chicken, mix with mayo, celery, and herbs for a classic chicken salad.
- Chicken Spaghetti or Casserole: Add diced or shredded chicken to your favorite pasta bake or casserole.
- Chicken Pot Pie: Use the meat as a filling for a comforting pot pie.
- Soup: Shred and add to soups for a protein boost.
- Meal Prep: Keep a batch in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
To ensure your chicken is always moist and flavorful, keep these tips in mind:
- Avoid Overcooking: Even under pressure, chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Stick to the recommended cooking time.
- Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing step. It adds a nice crust and locks in juices.
- Natural Release: Allowing some natural pressure release helps keep the chicken tender.
- Let Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Customize Seasonings: Adapt the seasoning blend to match the dish you’re making (e.g., skip strong herbs for more neutral-flavored chicken).
FAQ: Instant Pot Chicken Breast
How long do you cook chicken breast in an Instant Pot?
Cooking time for boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the Instant Pot is about 4 minutes at high pressure, followed by a 4-minute natural release and a quick manual release. Actual cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of the breasts.
Do you need to add liquid to the Instant Pot when cooking chicken?
Yes, adding at least 1 cup of chicken stock (or water) is essential to create steam and prevent the Instant Pot from displaying a “burn” warning.
Can you cook frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, but you’ll need to increase the pressure cooking time to about 10–12 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
How do you keep chicken breasts from drying out in the Instant Pot?
Sear the chicken briefly, use enough liquid, don’t overcook, and let the chicken rest after cooking. This will help keep your chicken moist and juicy.
What can you make with cooked Instant Pot chicken breasts?
They’re perfect for salads, sandwiches, soups, casseroles, tacos, and more—see the “How to Use” section above for ideas.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~220 kcal | ~35g | ~2g | ~7g | ~600mg |
Values are approximate and may vary based on the size and exact ingredients used.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Try these variations:
- Herb Blend: Swap the thyme for rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the spice mix.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a little heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
- Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil, and skip the lemon juice.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your chicken stock and seasonings are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Instant Pot chicken breasts are a game-changer for quick, healthy, and flavorful meals. In about 30 minutes, you can have juicy, versatile protein ready for any dish you crave. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a fast dinner, this recipe is a go-to solution for modern home cooks.
Get Cooking
Now that you know how easy it is to make perfect Instant Pot chicken breasts, give it a try tonight. Experiment with seasonings, sauces, and sides until you find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a38582182/instant-pot-chicken-breast-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37002168/instant-pot-chicken-noodle-soup-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a92222/pressure-cooker-shredded-chicken-and-3-easy-meals/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
