Hey friends!
Are you short on time but still want a delicious meal? I totally get it!
Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Instant Pot chicken breast.
It’s quick, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week.
Get ready to impress yourself with this one! Let’s dive in!
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15-25 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-40 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
- 1 tsp dried basil (adds a lovely aromatic touch)
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (I like Chosen Foods brand for its neutral flavor)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 cup water
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a high smoke point oil, such as avocado oil, to the pot.
While the pot heats up, season one side of the chicken breasts with garlic salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
Once the Instant Pot indicates it’s hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the pot, seasoned side down, using tongs to avoid splatter.
Sear the chicken breasts for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Second Side
As the first side of the chicken breasts sear, season the second side with the same seasonings: garlic salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
After 3 to 4 minutes, flip the chicken breasts and sear the second side for another 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are nicely browned.
Step 3: Prepare for Pressure Cooking
Turn off the sauté function and remove the chicken breasts from the pot.
Pour 1 cup of water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot.
Place the trivet in the pot and carefully return the chicken breasts, placing them on top of the trivet.
This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and stays moist.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken
Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high manual pressure for 5 minutes.
After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes.
This gentle release helps to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Step 5: Quick Release and Rest
After the natural release, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot.
Let the chicken rest on a plate for about 5 minutes; this resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more flavorful and moist.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Finally, slice the rested chicken breasts and serve them with your choice of sides, such as baked sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a side salad.
Enjoy your delicious, perfectly cooked chicken breasts!
