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Instant Pot Chicken for Beginners: 9 Simple & Quick Recipes
Struggling to get delicious, healthy dinners on the table during busy weeknights? You’re not alone if you wish for less kitchen time and more family time without compromising on flavor.
Instant Pot chicken recipes offer a quick, easy, and healthy solution for busy weeknights, transforming meal prep with minimal effort and cleanup for beginners. They simplify cooking by utilizing pressure to tenderize chicken faster than traditional methods, resulting in delicious, consistent meals. Drawing from comprehensive analysis of current data and proven methodologies, this guide will unlock the full potential of your Instant Pot for incredible chicken meals. You’ll discover 9 simple recipes designed to bring ease and excitement back to your dinner routine.
9 Simple & Quick Instant Pot Chicken Recipes for Beginners
1. Master Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Pin this sweet and savory recipe for your next easy dinner!
This Instant Pot honey garlic chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken bathed in a rich, sticky sauce, making it one of the easiest weeknight instant pot chicken meals. The Instant Pot helps cook chicken quickly, ensuring it’s juicy and infused with the sweet and savory honey garlic flavors. This popular dish simplifies dinner preparation significantly for beginners looking for delicious results.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup pure honey (natural sweetener for glaze)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free instant pot chicken)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 4 cloves minced garlic (for intense garlic flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (to mix with cornstarch)
- Optional: Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and minced garlic.
- Add Chicken: Place chicken pieces in the Instant Pot. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow a 5-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken Sauce: Remove chicken. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Turn the Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Pour the cornstarch slurry into the sauce, whisking constantly until thickened. Return chicken to the pot and toss to coat.
- Serve: Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Pro-Tip: For extra rich color and flavor, briefly sear the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot on SAUTE mode with a tablespoon of oil before adding the sauce. This creates a delicious Maillard reaction.
2. Prepare Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken

Save this zesty, light recipe for a healthy Instant Pot chicken dinner!
For a healthy and refreshing meal, this instant pot lemon garlic chicken recipe is a perfect choice. The Instant Pot infuses chicken with vibrant lemon and savory garlic flavors quickly, resulting in tender instant pot chicken breast that’s moist and delicious. This easy recipe is ideal for beginners seeking a light yet satisfying dinner solution.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs), sliced into halves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning chicken)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (for vibrant citrus flavor)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sear Chicken (Optional): Turn Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Add olive oil. Once hot, sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Deglaze: Add chicken broth to the pot and deglaze by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Return chicken to the pot. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 6-8 minutes (depending on thickness).
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a Quick Release (QR) of the pressure.
- Thicken (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, remove chicken and whisk cornstarch and cold water. Turn Instant Pot to SAUTE and whisk in slurry until thickened. Return chicken to sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Pro-Tip: For the most tender chicken, ensure chicken breasts are similar in thickness or slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This promotes even cooking.
3. Cook Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Together

Pin this ultimate one-pot meal for busy families!
This instant pot chicken and rice recipe is the ultimate one-pot solution for busy families, simplifying meal prep and cleanup. The Instant Pot efficiently cooks chicken and rice together, creating a complete and satisfying meal with tender chicken and perfectly fluffy rice. It’s an excellent family-friendly instant pot chicken dish for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Turn Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Add olive oil. Sauté chicken until lightly browned (not cooked through), about 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Deglaze: Add a splash of chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent a “Burn” notice.
- Layer Ingredients: Stir in rinsed rice, remaining chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently place chicken cubes on top of the rice. Do not stir.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 10 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then Quick Release any remaining pressure.
- Add Veggies & Serve: Stir in frozen mixed vegetables and let sit for 2-3 minutes to warm through. Fluff with a fork and serve immediately.
Pro-Tip: Rinsing your rice thoroughly before cooking is crucial to prevent a gummy texture and avoid the “Burn” notice on your Instant Pot.
4. Shred Instant Pot Chicken for Versatile Meals

Pin this meal prep staple for quick tacos, sandwiches, and more!
Making instant pot shredded chicken is incredibly easy and a fantastic solution for meal prep. The Instant Pot quickly transforms boneless chicken into tender, versatile shredded chicken perfect for tacos, sandwiches, salads, or casseroles. This recipe is an ideal way to prepare a large batch of chicken efficiently for future use, simplifying your meal planning.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), fresh or frozen
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place chicken breasts/thighs in the Instant Pot. Pour chicken broth over the chicken. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook (Fresh): Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing. Pressure cook on HIGH for 10-12 minutes for fresh chicken.
- Pressure Cook (Frozen): For frozen chicken, pressure cook on HIGH for 18-20 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Shred: Carefully remove chicken from the Instant Pot and place it in a large bowl. Using two forks or meat shredding claws, shred the chicken. Stir a few spoonfuls of the cooking liquid back into the shredded chicken to keep it moist.
- Store/Serve: Use immediately for tacos, sandwiches, salads, or meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Pro-Tip: For perfectly tender and easily shreddable chicken, ensure a full 10-minute Natural Pressure Release. This helps the chicken retain moisture and makes it fall apart beautifully.
5. Effortless Instant Pot Chicken Curry

Spice up your dinner routine! Pin this easy Instant Pot curry recipe.
Experience rich, aromatic flavors with this effortless instant pot chicken curry. The Instant Pot makes what’s often a lengthy cooking process surprisingly quick, delivering creamy instant pot chicken that tastes like it simmered all day. This recipe simplifies complex flavors, making it accessible for beginners to create an impressive chicken dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste (or desired curry type)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk (for rich creaminess)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and halved
- Fish sauce or salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Turn Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Add coconut oil. Sauté onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Add Curry Paste & Chicken: Stir in red curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat with the paste.
- Pressure Cook: Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 8 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a Quick Release (QR) of the pressure.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped bell pepper and green beans. Place the lid back on (without sealing or turning on heat) and let sit for 5 minutes to allow vegetables to soften in the residual heat.
- Serve: Stir in fish sauce or salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Pro-Tip: Always add coconut milk after searing and sautéing, and don’t place it directly on the bottom of the Instant Pot to prevent the “Burn” notice.
6. Make Speedy Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Don’t order takeout! Pin this quick & easy homemade teriyaki chicken recipe.
Skip the takeout and make this speedy instant pot teriyaki chicken at home. The Instant Pot cooks chicken quickly, infusing it with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce that’s far superior to store-bought. This quick instant pot chicken recipe is a flavorful solution for a satisfying homemade meal, perfect for beginners wanting to expand their repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons pure honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, honey/brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and minced garlic.
- Add Chicken: Place chicken pieces in the Instant Pot. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a Quick Release (QR) of the pressure.
- Thicken Sauce: Remove chicken. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Turn the Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Pour the cornstarch slurry into the sauce, whisking constantly until thickened to a glossy glaze. Return chicken to the pot and toss to coat.
- Serve: Serve immediately over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Pro-Tip: Using chicken thighs instead of breasts for teriyaki chicken results in a more tender and flavorful dish that’s less prone to drying out under pressure.
7. Delicious Instant Pot Chicken Soup

Feeling under the weather? Pin this comforting Instant Pot chicken soup!
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of chicken soup, and the Instant Pot makes delicious instant pot chicken soup remarkably fast. This healthy instant pot chicken meal delivers a deeply flavored broth and tender shredded chicken, tasting like it simmered all day. It’s a quick instant pot chicken recipe perfect for when you need a nourishing, easy dinner or are feeling unwell.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 lbs bone-in chicken thighs)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup egg noodles or rice (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Turn Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Add olive oil. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add Chicken & Broth: Add chicken breasts (or bone-in thighs) to the pot. Pour in chicken broth. Add bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing. Pressure cook on HIGH for 10 minutes (for boneless chicken) or 15 minutes (for bone-in chicken).
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Shred Chicken & Add Noodles: Remove chicken and shred it using two forks. Discard bones if using bone-in chicken. If adding noodles or rice, turn Instant Pot to SAUTE (Normal), add noodles/rice, and cook until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
- Combine & Serve: Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir well and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro-Tip: Using bone-in chicken for soup significantly enhances the depth of flavor in your broth due to the marrow and collagen released during pressure cooking.
8. Quick Instant Pot Crack Chicken

Warning: Highly addictive! Pin this Instant Pot crack chicken recipe now.
This quick instant pot crack chicken recipe is a creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying dish, perfect for those craving indulgent flavors. The Instant Pot quickly cooks chicken and infuses it with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and bacon, creating a rich, creamy instant pot chicken mixture. It’s a popular choice for gatherings or as a keto-friendly instant pot chicken option.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon bits
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Add Chicken & Broth: Place chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. Pour chicken broth over the chicken. Sprinkle with ranch seasoning mix.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 12 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, allow a 5-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR), then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Shred & Add Cream Cheese: Remove chicken and shred it in a large bowl or directly in the pot. Return shredded chicken to the Instant Pot (if removed). Add the cubed cream cheese to the hot chicken mixture. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce.
- Stir in Bacon & Onions: Stir in the cooked bacon bits and chopped green onions.
- Serve: Serve hot on hamburger buns, lettuce wraps, crackers, or over rice. Garnish with more green onions.
Pro-Tip: Softening the cream cheese at room temperature before adding it to the hot chicken mixture helps it melt smoothly and integrate quickly, preventing lumps.
9. Simplify Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas

Taco Tuesday just got easier! Pin this for your next family dinner.
Make vibrant and flavorful instant pot chicken fajitas with surprising ease, simplifying a popular meal for any night of the week. The Instant Pot cooks chicken and perfectly tender-crisp bell peppers and onions in minutes, creating an easy instant pot chicken dinner that tastes fresh off the griddle. This quick instant pot chicken recipe is a beginner-friendly way to enjoy classic fajita flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced into thin strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 2 tablespoons fajita seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Warm tortillas and desired toppings (salsa, sour cream, guacamole) for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Chicken: Turn Instant Pot to SAUTE mode (Normal). Add olive oil. Add chicken strips and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add sliced onion and bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Deglaze: Add chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Combine & Pressure Cook: Return chicken to the pot. Sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Stir well. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 3-4 minutes.
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a Quick Release (QR) of the pressure.
- Stir & Serve: Stir in fresh lime juice. Serve immediately with warm tortillas and your favorite fajita toppings.
Pro-Tip: Slicing your bell peppers and onions into uniform strips ensures they cook evenly alongside the chicken, resulting in a perfect tender-crisp texture.
FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken
How long does it take to cook chicken in an Instant Pot?
Cooking time for chicken in an Instant Pot varies by cut, but most boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs cook in 5-8 minutes on HIGH pressure. A general rule is 6-8 minutes for fresh chicken and 10-12 minutes for frozen, followed by a 5-10 minute Natural Pressure Release for optimal tenderness. This quick cooking ensures a fast meal.
Can you cook frozen chicken in an Instant Pot?
Yes, the Instant Pot is excellent for cooking frozen chicken directly, without needing to thaw. For boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, increase the HIGH pressure cooking time by approximately 5-7 minutes compared to fresh chicken, usually around 10-12 minutes, followed by a Natural Pressure Release. This is a great solution for last-minute meals.
What Instant Pot chicken recipes are best for beginners?
Beginners should start with simple, minimal-ingredient Instant Pot chicken recipes like honey garlic chicken, lemon garlic chicken, or basic shredded chicken. These recipes often involve simple “dump and go” methods, few steps, and reliable results, building confidence in pressure cooking. They provide delicious flavors with little fuss.
How do I make shredded chicken in an Instant Pot?
To make shredded chicken, pressure cook boneless, skinless chicken (fresh or frozen) with a cup of broth or water for 10-12 minutes (fresh) or 18-20 minutes (frozen) on HIGH, followed by a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release. Then, remove the chicken and shred it easily with two forks or meat claws, mixing in some cooking liquid for moisture.
What parts of chicken can I cook in an Instant Pot?
You can cook almost any part of chicken in an Instant Pot, including boneless or bone-in breasts, thighs, drumsticks, whole chicken, and even chicken wings. Each cut requires slightly different cooking times and liquid ratios, but the Instant Pot is designed to make all parts tender and juicy.
Is Instant Pot chicken healthy?
Instant Pot chicken can be very healthy, depending on the ingredients and sauces used. It cooks quickly, often retaining more nutrients than other methods, and allows for control over fat, sodium, and sugar content. Opting for lean cuts, plenty of vegetables, and homemade sauces makes for healthy instant pot chicken.
How do I prevent the “Burn” notice when cooking chicken in an Instant Pot?
To prevent the “Burn” notice, always add at least 1 cup of thin liquid (like broth or water) to the Instant Pot and deglaze the pot by scraping any browned bits from the bottom after sautéing. Avoid placing thick sauces or tomato products directly on the bottom; layer them on top of other ingredients.
What’s the difference between Natural Pressure Release (NPR) and Quick Release (QR)?
Natural Pressure Release (NPR) means allowing the Instant Pot to depressurize on its own, which takes 10-20 minutes and is ideal for tender meats like chicken as it keeps them moist. Quick Release (QR) means manually opening the vent to release steam quickly, suitable for foods that you don’t want to overcook, like vegetables.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Instant Pot recipes?
Yes, you absolutely can use frozen chicken breasts for Instant Pot recipes, making it incredibly convenient for meal planning or last-minute dinners. Simply adjust the cooking time, typically adding an extra 5-7 minutes of high-pressure cooking compared to fresh chicken, ensuring they reach a safe internal temperature.
How do Instant Pot chicken recipes compare to slow cooker chicken?
Instant Pot chicken recipes cook significantly faster than slow cooker chicken, often in minutes versus hours, making them ideal for quick weeknight meals. While both yield tender results, the Instant Pot retains more moisture and flavor due to pressure, and it can also sear ingredients, adding more depth than a traditional slow cooker.
Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Chicken for Beginners
The Instant Pot truly transforms the way we approach cooking chicken, especially for those seeking quick, easy, and delicious meals. Our exploration of these 9 simple instant pot chicken recipes highlights the appliance’s remarkable versatility and ability to consistently produce tender, flavorful results. Whether you’re making a batch of shredded chicken for meal prep or a speedy teriyaki chicken dinner, the Instant Pot simplifies the process, making cooking chicken accessible for even the most beginner home cooks.
By leveraging proven instant pot chicken techniques and focusing on clear instructions, you can overcome common cooking challenges like dry chicken or time constraints. We’ve shown how the Instant Pot streamlines everything from one-pot chicken and rice to creamy chicken curry. Remember the crucial tips, like ensuring enough liquid to avoid a “Burn” notice and allowing proper pressure release, to guarantee success. You now have a comprehensive guide to delicious instant pot chicken options.
Key Takeaways
- Instant Pot chicken simplifies weeknight dinners, offering quick, easy, and healthy meal solutions for beginners. It’s a versatile appliance for a variety of chicken dishes.
- Pressure cooking ensures tender, moist chicken every time, whether using fresh or frozen cuts. This method locks in flavor and moisture, preventing dry chicken.
- The Instant Pot excels at one-pot meals like chicken and rice or creamy chicken curry, minimizing cleanup and maximizing efficiency. Perfect for busy families.
- Mastering a few basic Instant Pot chicken techniques, such as proper liquid ratios and release methods, leads to consistent success. A 10-minute Natural Pressure Release is often key for tenderness.
- Batch cooking shredded Instant Pot chicken is a strategic meal prep solution for versatile future meals, from tacos to salads. This helps solve meal prep struggles.
- Don’t shy away from popular recipes like Honey Garlic, Lemon Garlic, or Teriyaki Chicken; the Instant Pot makes them beginner-friendly. They deliver impressive flavors with minimal effort.
- Always ensure adequate liquid and scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent the “Burn” notice, a common Instant Pot beginner issue. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
Last update on 2025-12-17 at 08:11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
