Instant Pot Chicken Recipe

Imagine coming home after a long day, the scent of a delicious meal wafting through the air, and the best part? It’s done in just a fraction of the time thanks to your trusty Instant Pot. This Instant Pot Chicken Recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s packed with flavor that will surely impress your family or guests. With a handful of simple ingredients, including low-sodium soy sauce and brown sugar, you can whip up a savory dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe that will transform your weeknight dinners.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Instant Pot Chicken Recipe stand out is its rich, umami flavor profile thanks to the low-sodium soy sauce. The sweetness from the brown sugar balances the savory notes perfectly, while the chicken stock infuses the dish with incredible moisture and depth. This recipe is not only quick, but it also delivers a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen. Plus, it’s adaptable! You can easily add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize it to your taste.

What’s in the Bowl

This recipe requires minimal ingredients, making meal prep a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup (59ml) low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon (13g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (237ml) low-sodium chicken stock
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 pound chicken breasts, thawed

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and tender chicken dish that can be served in various ways.

Setup & Equipment

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment ready:

• Instant Pot: The star of the show, perfect for quick cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting board and knife: To prep your chicken and any additional ingredients.
• Serving platter: For presenting your delicious creation.

Having everything in place will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step: Instant Pot Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by thawing your chicken breasts if they are frozen. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the chicken sear better and lock in flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken stock, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until the brown sugar dissolves completely. This sauce will be the heart of your dish.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Once it’s hot, add a splash of oil (optional) and place the chicken breasts in the pot. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

After searing, pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the Instant Pot. Ensure that the chicken is well-coated with the sauce for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the time to 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.

Step 6: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Serve

Open the lid and carefully remove the chicken breasts. You can slice them or serve them whole, drizzled with the sauce from the pot. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken with your favorite sides!

If You’re Out Of…

Don’t fret if you find yourself missing an ingredient. Here are some substitutes:

• Soy Sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
• Brown Sugar: You can replace it with honey or coconut sugar.
• Chicken Stock: Vegetable stock works well for a lighter flavor.
• Pepper: If you want a kick, use crushed red pepper flakes instead.

These substitutes will help you stay on track with the recipe without compromising on taste.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best cooks encounter issues from time to time. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:

• Chicken is dry: This can happen if the chicken is overcooked. Always stick to the recommended cooking time and allow for natural pressure release.
• Burn notice on the Instant Pot: Make sure to deglaze the pot after sautéing to prevent sticking.
• Too salty: If using regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium, it may be too salty. Balance it with a bit of sugar or add water to dilute the sauce.
• Flavorless chicken: Ensure that the chicken is well-coated in the sauce and that the sauce is fully mixed before cooking.

With a little attention, you can easily avoid these pitfalls.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Once you’ve enjoyed your Instant Pot Chicken, you may have leftovers. Here’s how to properly store, freeze, and reheat it:

• Store: Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.

Proper storage and reheating will ensure your delicious chicken remains flavorful and enjoyable.

Ask the Chef

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes. Make sure to check for doneness before serving.

What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?

Feel free to add minced garlic, ginger, or chopped green onions to the sauce for an added layer of flavor.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly — thighs may need a few extra minutes.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add a teaspoon of chili paste or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking for a spicy kick.

Round out your meal with some delicious sides. Consider serving your Instant Pot Chicken with:

These sides will complement the flavors of the chicken beautifully.

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve crafted this mouthwatering Instant Pot Chicken Recipe, it’s time to dig in! The tender, juicy chicken wrapped in a savory-sweet sauce is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or just treating yourself, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Enjoy the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!