instant pot frozen chicken recipe

The Best instant pot frozen chicken recipe

I’ve been making this Instant Pot frozen chicken recipe for years, and it’s one of those meals that just feels like home—simple, reliable, and always hits the spot. There’s something about pulling a perfectly cooked chicken breast or thigh from the pressure cooker that makes me smile, especially when it’s ready in under an hour. My kids—especially my picky eaters—love it because it’s tender, flavorful, and doesn’t require any fancy marinating or prepping. It’s that kind of meal that doesn’t demand attention but still makes a real impression, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion where you want something hearty and satisfying without the stress.

Health-wise, this recipe is a no-brainer. Frozen chicken is just as nutritious as fresh, and cooking it in the Instant Pot keeps all the good stuff—lean protein, vitamins, and minerals—locked in. No extra oils needed, just a splash of broth or water and a little seasoning, so it’s lighter than deep-fried or breaded versions but still packed with flavor. My family eats it regularly because it’s easy to customize—add veggies, swap spices, or even make it a family-style meal with all the fixings. It’s the kind of recipe that makes me feel good about feeding my kids while keeping things simple and delicious. Plus, it’s foolproof, so no one gets stressed when life gets busy.

Instant Pot Frozen Chicken with Lemon Garlic Sauce

4.9 from 803 votes

A quick and flavorful way to cook frozen chicken using an Instant Pot, resulting in tender, juicy meat 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

• 2 lbs frozen boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

• 1 cup frozen diced tomatoes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Thaw the frozen chicken if necessary by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. Pat dry with a paper towel and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. 2 Place the chicken in the Instant Pot, then add olive oil. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
3. 3 Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chicken broth, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. 4 Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and cook on high heat for 2 minutes to release any steam and ensure the garlic is fragrant.
5. 5 Switch to ‘Pressure Cook’ mode and select ‘High Pressure’ for 10 minutes.
6. 6 Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. 7 If using, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

🔧Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Garlic press or mincer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

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This Instant Pot frozen chicken recipe is a lifesaver when you need quick, flavorful meals without the stress of last-minute cooking—especially for family gatherings where you want something hearty and easy to serve. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting because it cooks up perfectly from frozen, saving time and effort while still delivering tender, juicy chicken that tastes fresh. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers or meal prep ahead, so you’re always ready for whatever comes up.

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

How long should I thaw frozen chicken before cooking in the Instant Pot?

You can safely thaw frozen chicken in the Instant Pot by placing it directly in the pot with a small amount of liquid (like broth or water) and cooking it on High Pressure for 10 minutes. This method helps thaw it gradually while cooking. Alternatively, you can thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.

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Can I use any type of frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, breasts, or even shredded frozen chicken. However, for best results, boneless thighs tend to stay juicier after pressure cooking. If using breasts, add 2 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.

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What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from sticking to the Instant Pot?

To avoid sticking, lightly grease the Instant Pot’s insert with oil or butter before adding the chicken. You can also place a layer of chopped onions, garlic, or even a thin layer of broth in the bottom to create a barrier. Stirring occasionally during cooking also helps prevent adhesion.

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Should I add any broth or liquid to the Instant Pot for cooking frozen chicken?

Yes, always add enough liquid (about ½ to ¾ cup of broth, water, or chicken stock) to the Instant Pot. This ensures proper pressure cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out. The liquid also helps tenderize the meat.

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What’s the ideal pressure cook time for frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?

For frozen chicken thighs or breasts, cook on High Pressure for 10–12 minutes (thighs may need 10, breasts 12). Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release if needed. For shredded chicken, reduce time to 8–10 minutes and check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C is safe).