best chicken recipe instant pot
The Best best chicken recipe instant pot
I’ve been making this Instant Pot chicken recipe for years—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug when dinner time hits. There’s something about tender, juicy chicken that comes out of the pressure cooker so perfectly, with just the right seasoning, that it makes me want to keep it on rotation week after week. My kids don’t even question it anymore; they’ll beg for seconds because it’s always so flavorful and easy to eat. It’s not just quick, it’s foolproof, which is why I swear by it for busy weeknights and special occasions too—whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend get-together, this chicken fits right in without any fuss.
The health benefits are what really sell it for me. It’s packed with lean protein, which helps keep everyone full and energized, and the way it’s seasoned with herbs and spices means no heavy sauces or excess oils. My kids love that it’s light but still satisfying, and the way the chicken stays moist and tender makes it feel like a treat even when it’s just a regular meal. It’s also one of those recipes that lets you customize it—add veggies, swap spices, or even make it extra crispy if you want. That’s why it’s always a hit, whether we’re serving it with rice, quinoa, or just a simple salad. Plus, the fact that it’s made in one pot means there’s less cleanup, and less stress. It’s the kind of dish that makes life simpler without sacrificing flavor.
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken with Peas
A quick and flavorful Instant Pot recipe featuring tender chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, paired with fresh peas for a perfect balance of flavors. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 cup frozen peas
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a bowl, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and grated ginger. Set aside.
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2 Place chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
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3 Season chicken with salt and pepper. Stir in frozen peas.
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4 Close and lock the Instant Pot lid. Set the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
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5 Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
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6 Serve the chicken and peas hot, garnished with extra garlic if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press or mincer
- Grater
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken with Peas Works
The Instant Pot chicken recipe I’ve perfected is a lifesaver for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for family gatherings. It cooks perfectly tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy moms who still want a restaurant-quality meal without the stress. Plus, the flavors are rich and satisfying, so it never feels like a sacrifice when serving guests or feeding the whole family.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken with Peas
What is the best instant pot chicken recipe for tender and juicy results?
The best instant pot chicken recipe for tender and juicy results typically involves a combination of pressure cooking and seasoning. Start with whole chicken (12-16 lbs) or chicken thighs/legs (about 2-3 lbs per person). Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of thyme or rosemary. Pour about 1 cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot, then place the chicken inside. Cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes before opening. Shred or slice the chicken and serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or your favorite sides.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of whole chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier when cooked in the Instant Pot. For 2-3 lbs of chicken thighs, season them well with your preferred spices, place them in the Instant Pot, and add about 1 cup of broth or water. Cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes, then let it naturally release for 10 minutes before opening. This method works well for both bone-in and boneless thighs.
What are some great Instant Pot chicken recipes with vegetables?
One fantastic Instant Pot chicken and vegetable recipe is “One-Pot Chicken Fajitas.” Slice 2-3 lbs of chicken breast or thighs into strips, and toss with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a mix of fajita seasoning. Add 1 cup of chicken broth, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Quick release the pressure, then stir in some corn, black beans, and a squeeze of lime. Serve with warm tortillas and toppings like avocado, salsa, and sour cream.
Another option is “Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetable Soup.” Slice 2-3 lbs of chicken into bite-sized pieces, then brown it in the Instant Pot with onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Add 4 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, and your choice of seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let it naturally release. Shred the chicken and serve with crusty bread.
How do I make Instant Pot chicken breast that stays juicy?
To keep Instant Pot chicken breast juicy, follow these tips: First, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to help it brown better. Season generously with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you prefer. Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and add about 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then let it naturally release for 10 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pot, and ensure the chicken is not touching the sides. For extra juiciness, you can also make a quick pan-sear after pressure cooking by transferring the chicken to a skillet and cooking it for 3-4 minutes per side.
What’s the best way to cook chicken drumsticks in an Instant Pot?
For perfectly cooked Instant Pot chicken drumsticks, start by seasoning the drumsticks generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne if you like a bit of heat. Place them in the Instant Pot, add about 1 cup of chicken broth or water, and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before carefully opening the valve. The drumsticks should be tender and juicy. For added flavor, you can toss them in a mixture of melted butter, lemon juice, and fresh herbs before serving.
