Description
This Instant Pot Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked quickly under pressure with simple seasonings for a versatile protein base perfect for a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Liquid
- 1 cup cold water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare Instant Pot: Add 1 cup of cold water to the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside to keep the chicken elevated above the liquid, preventing it from boiling directly in the water.
- Season Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts in a single layer outside the pot and evenly sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently with tongs or hands to thoroughly coat each piece with the seasonings.
- Place Chicken in Pot: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on the trivet inside the Instant Pot. Ensure they’re not overlapping for even cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the pressure vent to Sealing. Select the Pressure Cook (High) or Manual setting and cook the chicken for 10 minutes if breasts are thinner than 2 inches or 15 minutes if thicker.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle ends, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes to retain moisture and tenderness.
- Quick Release Pressure: Carefully turn the sealing valve to Venting to release the remaining pressure safely.
- Remove and Serve: Open the lid and take out the chicken breasts. They can be shredded or cubed as desired. Save the flavorful broth left behind for soups or other recipes.
Notes
- Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For freezing, let the chicken cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before use.
- Substitute chicken broth instead of water in the Instant Pot for enhanced flavor in the cooking liquid and finished chicken.
Keywords: Instant Pot chicken breast, pressure cooker chicken, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken breasts, quick dinner