If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and foolproof way to make chicken, these instant pot chicken breast recipes are your new best friend. The Instant Pot transforms ordinary chicken breasts into tender, juicy perfection in a fraction of the time it takes to bake or grill. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a last-minute dinner, this recipe delivers consistent results—moist, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can customize this recipe to suit any flavor profile—think garlic butter, BBQ, lemon herb, or even spicy fajita-style chicken. Let’s dive into how to make the best Instant Pot chicken breast every single time.
Ingredients
- 2–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1–1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or soy sauce for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. - Add Liquid to the Pot:
Pour 1 cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot. This liquid is essential for building pressure and preventing burning. - Place Chicken in the Pot:
Set the trivet inside the pot and place the seasoned chicken breasts on top. - Pressure Cook:
Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 8 minutes (for average-sized chicken breasts). Adjust to 10 minutes for larger pieces or 6 minutes for smaller ones. - Natural Release:
Once cooking is done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure. - Check Internal Temperature:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) internally. - Rest and Slice:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
Tips & Variations
- Add Flavor: Mix up the seasoning—try taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or curry powder for unique twists.
- Make It Saucy: Add a cup of your favorite sauce (like BBQ, teriyaki, or marinara) instead of broth for extra flavor.
- Frozen Chicken Option: You can cook frozen chicken breasts—just increase the cooking time to 12 minutes on high pressure.
- Shredded Chicken: After cooking, shred the chicken with two forks for tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Instant Pot chicken breast is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Add steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- In Salads: Slice cold chicken and toss it with greens, nuts, and vinaigrette.
- In Tacos or Wraps: Add avocado, salsa, and cheese for a protein-packed wrap.
- With Pasta: Mix with alfredo or marinara sauce for a quick Italian-style dinner.
FAQs
Q1: Can I cook chicken thighs the same way?
Yes! Chicken thighs work great in the Instant Pot. Cook them for about 10 minutes on high pressure.
Q2: Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
Absolutely! Chicken broth adds extra flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q4: How do I prevent dry chicken?
Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer and follow the timing guidelines closely.
Conclusion
Making instant pot chicken breast recipes is one of the easiest ways to ensure a quick, healthy, and delicious meal on any busy day. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll never go back to dry, overcooked chicken again. Experiment with different spices and sauces to make this your go-to protein for any dish!
