chicken insta pot recipe
- The Best chicken insta pot recipe
- Instant Pot Chicken & Rice with Garlic Butter Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Chicken & Rice with Garlic Butter Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Chicken & Rice with Garlic Butter Sauce
The Best chicken insta pot recipe
Okay, so let me tell you why I’m always reaching for the Instant Pot for chicken—it’s simple, it’s fast, and it turns out so good that my kids won’t even notice it’s not the same as the kind they get at their favorite restaurant. I’ve been using this method for years, and it’s one of those rare recipes that feels like a treat every time, whether we’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My boys—especially my eight-year-old—always ask for it because it’s tender, flavorful, and doesn’t require any fancy skills. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re doing something special, even if you’re just throwing things together in a hurry.
The health benefits are another reason I love it. Chicken is lean protein, and when you cook it in the Instant Pot with a little broth, garlic, and spices, it stays juicy and packed with nutrients. My kids eat it straight up with steamed veggies or on a bed of rice, and I don’t have to worry about them piling on extra greasy sauces. Plus, it’s foolproof—no overcooking, no dry chicken, just perfect every single time. We’ve used it for school lunches, family dinners, and even when we’re entertaining friends, and it never fails to impress. It’s that kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re doing something right, no matter how busy life gets.
Instant Pot Chicken & Rice with Garlic Butter Sauce
A quick and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken breast, fluffy rice, and a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
🥘Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup jasmine rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp butter
- ½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1 Prep the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry, season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in an Instant Pot, sear chicken on each side for 3–4 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside.
-
2 Cook the rice: Add rice, chicken broth, and turmeric to the Instant Pot. Secure lid, set to ‘Rice’ (or ‘High Pressure’ for 5 mins), then natural release.
-
3 Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, thyme, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
-
4 Combine: Return chicken to the Instant Pot. Pour sauce over rice and chicken. Stir gently. Cook on ‘Sauté’ for 2 minutes to warm through.
🔧Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Chicken & Rice with Garlic Butter Sauce Works
This chicken recipe in the Instant Pot is always a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal for the whole family. It’s foolproof—no fancy techniques, just solid flavors and quick prep—so it’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something satisfying and stress-free. Plus, it’s great for gatherings because it serves a crowd easily, and the tender chicken and flavorful sauce make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Chicken & Rice with Garlic Butter Sauce
What is the best way to prepare chicken for the Instant Pot?
The best way to prepare chicken for the Instant Pot is to use bone-in, skin-on pieces for extra flavor and moisture. Trim excess fat if desired, but leave the skin intact for added richness. For breast chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs or spices before adding to the pressure cooker.
—
How long should I cook chicken in the Instant Pot for tender, juicy results?
For bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks, cook for 6 minutes on high pressure, then let it naturally release for 10 minutes before opening. For bone-in breasts or chicken breasts, cook for 8 minutes on high pressure, followed by a 5-minute natural release. For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 5 minutes on high pressure with a 0-minute release works well if you prefer a quicker cook. Always check internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
—
Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken in the Instant Pot, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If the chicken is already cooked, you can simply add it to the pot with your desired seasonings and let it warm through. For best results, use 5 minutes on high pressure followed by a 0-minute release (if fully cooked) or a 3-minute natural release to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking, as it can dry out the meat.
—
What are the best seasonings or marinades to pair with Instant Pot chicken?
Instant Pot chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of seasonings and marinades. For a classic flavor, try garlic, lemon, olive oil, salt, and pepper. For a spicy kick, use chili powder, paprika, cumin, and hot sauce. A Mediterranean twist can be achieved with herbes de Provence, oregano, and a touch of honey. For a tangy marinade, blend soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a splash of vinegar. If you prefer sweet and savory, try miso paste, honey, and soy sauce. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and liquids to suit your taste!
—
How do quickest and most efficient way to cook chicken in an Instant Pot?
The quickest and most efficient way to cook chicken in an Instant Pot is to use bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks for minimal prep and faster cooking. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then add them directly to the pot with a splash of broth or water. Cook for 6 minutes on high pressure, release naturally for 10 minutes, and serve. For boneless breasts, use 5 minutes on high pressure with a 0-minute release for a super quick result. This method ensures even cooking with minimal effort.
