instant pot recipe frozen chicken breast

The Best instant pot recipe frozen chicken breast

Okay, so let me tell you why I’m always reaching for the Instant Pot when I need to cook chicken breast—it’s simple, fast, and never fails to impress. My family loves it because it’s tender, juicy, and comes out perfectly every single time, no matter how often I use it. I’ve got kids who think it’s the best thing since sliced bread, and honestly, who could blame them? It’s easy to make, takes less than an hour, and the flavors are rich without any fuss. Plus, it’s a great way to get protein in without the extra work of marinating or slow-cooking. I use it for everyday meals, but it’s also perfect for when we’re hosting a little get-together or just want to make sure everyone’s eating well. The health benefits are a bonus—it’s lean, packed with protein, and keeps the fat in check, which is always a win in my book. No one has to worry about dry, rubbery chicken when they take a bite; it’s always moist and delicious, and it’s a great way to keep things balanced and nutritious.

Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breast with Lemon Garlic Sauce

4.7 from 1830 votes

A quick and flavorful way to cook frozen chicken breast in the Instant Pot, paired with a bright lemon garlic sauce for a healthy and delicious meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time25 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless frozen chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¼ cup lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Thaw the frozen chicken breasts if not already thawed. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. 2 In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. 3 Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, ensuring they are not touching.
4. 4 Add chicken broth to the Instant Pot, ensuring the liquid level covers about ½ inch of the chicken.
5. 5 Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 10 minutes.
6. 6 Quick-release the pressure and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
7. 7 In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
8. 8 Pour in the lemon juice and stir well. Add the chicken broth from the Instant Pot (if desired) and simmer for 2 minutes.
9. 9 Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the sauce over the chicken breasts and serve.

🔧Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Garlic press or small knife
• Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12.5💛Saturated Fat: 3.5❤️Cholesterol: 100🧂Sodium: 550🌾Total Carbs: 8🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 3🥩Protein: 48

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley or basil.,Ensure chicken breasts are fully thawed before cooking for even cooking.,Adjust the lemon juice and garlic to taste; more lemon can brighten the dish further.

This Instant Pot frozen chicken breast recipe is a lifesaver for busy families who need quick, flavorful protein without the fuss. It’s perfect for gatherings because it cooks fast—no stress about timing—and serves a crowd without overcomplicating the meal. Plus, the tender texture and easy prep make it a reliable go-to whenever you need something hearty to share with loved ones.

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

You can thaw frozen chicken breast in the Instant Pot by placing it in the pot with a little water or broth, then setting it to Sauté mode until fully thawed (about 5–10 minutes). Alternatively, you can cook it directly from frozen by using the High Pressure setting for 12 minutes (for 6–8 oz per breast) with 1 cup of liquid (broth, water, or tomato sauce). Avoid thawing in cold water to prevent uneven cooking.

Use 1 cup of liquid—broth, water, or a mix of broth and a little oil (like olive or vegetable oil) to prevent sticking. For extra flavor, try tomato sauce, coconut milk, or a spiced marinade before adding. Avoid pure water if you want a more savory result.

Yes! You can combine frozen chicken with chopped vegetables (like bell peppers, onions, or frozen peas) and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, or herbs) in the Instant Pot. Just ensure there’s enough liquid (1–2 cups) to prevent scorching. For best texture, press the chicken slightly with a spatula after adding veggies.

For 6–8 oz breasts per side, use High Pressure for 12 minutes (natural release for 10 minutes). For larger cuts (10+ oz), increase to 15 minutes. If using a Quick Release, reduce time slightly (10–11 minutes) but be cautious of splashing. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F internal temp).

Absolutely! Frozen chicken works great in recipes like chicken and rice (simmer with rice, broth, and veggies for 10–12 minutes), chicken pot pie (use the same pressure method with a roux-based filling), or chicken noodle soup (add noodles and veggies after pressure cooking). Just adjust liquid and cooking time as needed.