easy chicken instant pot recipe

The Best easy chicken instant pot recipe

Oh, you know how I feel about quick, easy meals that still taste like home—nothing beats pulling out my Instant Pot and having perfectly cooked chicken in under thirty minutes. This recipe is my go-to when I’m short on time but still want something hearty and satisfying. My kids eat it every time because it’s tender, flavorful, and never dry, no matter how much they try to sneak extra rice or veggies into their bowls. It’s the kind of meal that feels special even when it’s just for dinner, whether I’m feeding a family of six or just myself after a long day.

I love this recipe because it’s so versatile—you can serve it with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or even just a simple green salad. It’s also packed with protein and nutrients, which is great for keeping everyone full and energized. Plus, the Instant Pot does all the work for me, so I don’t have to stand over a stove for hours. My family loves it because it’s always delicious, and it’s something we can make ahead if we’re hosting a little get-together or just want leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat without the extra effort.

Easy Instant Pot Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce

4.5 from 814 votes

A quick and flavorful Instant Pot recipe featuring tender chicken cooked with a bright lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time20 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time30 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup chicken stock
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat Instant Pot to high pressure. Rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. 2 In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken.
3. 3 Place chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring it is submerged in liquid (add a splash of broth if needed).
4. 4 Add chicken broth, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, lemon juice, honey (if using), and red pepper flakes. Stir gently.
5. 5 Lock the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. 6 Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
7. 7 Remove the chicken and shred or slice it. Stir in chopped parsley and serve with rice or over a salad.

🔧Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14.5💛Saturated Fat: 2.5❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 20🥦Dietary Fiber: 3🍬Sugars: 5🥩Protein: 45

📝Notes

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This easy Instant Pot chicken recipe is always a lifesaver for quick, flavorful meals—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering where you need something hearty and stress-free. It cooks fast, keeps the kids (and adults) happy with tender, juicy chicken, and the simple seasoning makes it feel special without taking forever to prepare. Plus, it’s foolproof, so you don’t have to worry about overcooking or last-minute mistakes when hosting, and everyone ends up satisfied without the fuss.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce

1. What ingredients do I need to make an easy Instant Pot chicken recipe?

To make an easy Instant Pot chicken recipe, you’ll need chicken thighs or breasts, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a bit of oil. For the broth, you can use chicken broth, water, and a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Optional but recommended: lemon juice, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, and a pinch of sugar.

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2. Can I use chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe, and which works best?

You can use either chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Chicken thighs are generally more flavorful and juicier, but breasts work fine if you’re short on time. For best results with breasts, add a bit more liquid (like broth or water) to prevent drying out.

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3. How long should I cook the chicken in the Instant Pot?

For chicken breasts, cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes, then let it natural release for 10 minutes. For chicken thighs, cook on High Pressure for 6 minutes, then let it natural release for 10 minutes. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature (165°F/74°C) with a meat thermometer.

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4. Do I need to add any extra seasonings or spices?

While basic seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika work well, you can enhance the flavor with optional additions like garlic, onion, bay leaves, or even a dash of hot sauce. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also add a nice touch.

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5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes! You can prepare the Instant Pot chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, transfer the chicken to a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of water or broth, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. For best results, use a gentle method like baking at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.