Yesterday’s dinner conundrum has been solved with the rise of Instant Pot meals, perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. They’re also ideal for hosting dinner gatherings as they enable you to engage with your guests rather than being tied to the kitchen. A notable advantage of many Instant Pot recipes is that they are often healthier alternatives to their stovetop counterparts without compromising on flavor.
We’ve curated a list of 35 incredible Instant Pot recipes to provide you with inspiration for your meal planning, catering to diverse tastes and occasions.
Ginger Chicken With Cabbage Slaw
Not only does the Instant Pot have the ability to function as a pressure cooker, but it can also be used as a slow cooker when paired with the right type of lid. This recipe showcases its versatility by cooking chicken slowly with the aromatic flavors of ginger and apricot. The result is a nutritious and filling meal that pairs perfectly with a refreshing cabbage slaw served over fluffy rice.
Instant Pot Chicken And Rice
Often described as a humble dish, this meal is surprisingly packed with rich, deep flavours that are sure to hit the spot. The presence of garlic and paprika adds an unmistakable depth, while the use of chicken stock in cooking the rice imbues every component with a satisfying, savoury essence. With a preparation time of under an hour from start to finish, this dish is perfect for a quick yet indulgent meal, and can be elevated further by sprinkling it with cheese for an extra burst of flavour.
Instant Pot Chicken Wings
Instant Pot Chicken And Dumplings
Venturing into the colder months often requires a hearty dish that satisfies our cravings for comfort food, and this recipe hits all the right notes. The dumplings are delightfully fluffy, while the chicken is cooked to perfection, retaining its tenderness throughout. Meanwhile, the herby sauce bursts with flavors from an assortment of herbs and vegetables, expertly combined to elevate the overall taste experience.
While wine is not a necessity in this recipe, incorporating it into the dish does add a delightful touch of indulgence that elevates the meal to new heights.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
Highly anticipated meals are often savored by many, but let’s face it – we can’t indulge in tacos and enchiladas every day. This delicious soup cleverly combines the vibrant flavors of Mexico in a light and healthy way, perfect for a weeknight dinner that won’t weigh you down. With its guilt-free ingredients, you’ll be able to satisfy those Mexican cravings without overdoing it.
Chicken Noodle Soup
Understanding that a steaming bowl of homemade chicken noodle soup is the ultimate comfort food when you’re feeling under the weather, it’s frustrating when illness leaves you with little energy to prepare it. This recipe acknowledges this challenge and offers a solution: minimal preparation time – just 10 minutes – followed by letting the instant pot take over and do the rest of the work.
Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken
Elevate your dining experience with our Italian-inspired Tuscan chicken recipe, a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for a special occasion like a date night or a cozy Friday evening with a glass of wine. The rich and creamy sauce is expertly balanced by the flavors of garlic, mushrooms, and sundried tomatoes, creating a truly decadent taste experience.
Enjoy this succulent chicken paired with a variety of sides, from classic pasta or rice to roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables, making it an ideal option for any mealtime occasion.
Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole
Renowned for its rich and indulgent taste, this casserole boasts a harmonious balance of creamy textures and bold flavours. The aromatic sauce is expertly infused with the deep, pungent flavour of garlic, combined with the sweetness of onion, the freshness of parsley, and the depth of chicken stock to create a truly satisfying flavour profile. Meanwhile, the chicken is given an extra layer of complexity with the subtle nuttiness of poppy seeds, elevating the dish to new heights.
When served over fluffy rice and topped with the crunch of crushed Ritz crackers, this casserole becomes a true culinary delight.
Chicken And Quinoa Minestrone
Adding more wholesome foods to your diet can be achieved by incorporating recipes like this delicious chicken and quinoa minestrone into your meal plan. This recipe stands out due to its rich nutrient profile, which is thanks in large part to the presence of quinoa – a whole grain that is not only high in essential nutrients but also an excellent source of plant-based protein.
Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Making a homemade butter chicken dish that rivals the taste of a takeaway might seem like a daunting task, but this recipe proves it’s actually quite easy to achieve. In fact, you can have it ready in just 20 minutes of preparation time before letting your instant pot do the rest. This allows you to unwind and enjoy the anticipation as the mouth-watering aroma fills your kitchen, signaling that your delicious meal is almost ready.
Instant Pot Chicken Marsala
Dining out or in, Chicken Marsala is a timeless dish that consistently leaves a lasting impression on guests. Its understated yet refined charm stems from the harmonious balance of succulent chicken, earthy mushrooms, crispy bacon, and a hint of white wine. Delighting both the palate and the eye, this elegant meal can be paired with a rich potato dauphinoise and an assortment of steamed green vegetables to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Creamy Chicken With Mushrooms
Nourishing families is what this recipe for creamy chicken with mushrooms aims to do. Serve it up with rice and steamed broccoli for a satisfying meal that everyone will appreciate. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, allowing you to use either chicken breast or thighs depending on your preference.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Rounding out your weekend meal plans with these scrumptious chicken buffalo sliders is an excellent idea. Not only are they perfect for a fun gathering with friends, but they’re also ideal for serving on a game day when you want to feed a crowd without breaking a sweat. The best part? Preparing the mouthwatering chicken filling in your instant pot takes mere minutes, freeing up time for you to watch the big game or focus on entertaining your guests.
Instant Pot Pho Ga
Zesty and aromatic, Pho Ga is a Vietnamese dish that’s a staple in many households. With its fragrant broth and satisfying noodles, it’s no wonder why this chicken soup has gained popularity worldwide. The combination of nourishing ingredients and bold flavors makes for a truly exceptional meal experience. If you’re looking to try something new and exciting, Pho Ga is definitely worth adding to your culinary repertoire.
It’s a refreshing change from the usual chicken noodle soup, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes that will leave you wanting more.
Chicken Fajitas
Just by using an Instant Pot, making chicken fajitas becomes an incredibly simple task that will leave you wondering why you haven’t done so before. The best part is that it’s also healthier as the ingredients aren’t subjected to excessive oil, which is a major plus for those who prioritize their health. All you need to do is prepare the wraps and toppings in advance while the chicken cooks away, and your family fajitas night will be well-planned and ready to go.
One of the highlights of this recipe is its adaptability – you can easily make it spicier by adding some extra heat or tossing in more vegetables if you’re looking for a bit more nutrition.
Jalapeno Popper Shredded Chicken
Often considered a party favorite, jalapeno poppers have been reimagined in this recipe by incorporating tender chicken into the mix. The soft, shredded chicken pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of the jalapenos, while the rich cheese adds an extra layer of flavor. The creamy sauce brings all of these elements together in perfect harmony. This versatile filling can be used in a variety of dishes, from a sandwich or jacket potato topper, to a nacho topping or salad ingredient.
You could also use it as a base for some delicious Mexican-inspired pasta creations. For an added twist, try using the chicken mixture in a pasta bake by adding extra cream and cheese to the mix, then topping with shredded cheese for an indulgent treat.
Instant Pot Whole Chicken
Zesty cooking in the instant pot is a revelation for many home cooks who are looking to elevate their meal prep game. It’s astonishingly quick, requiring mere minutes to cook a whole chicken to perfection. The end result is a tender and juicy bird that’s not only delicious but also remarkably moist. This convenient method of cooking a whole chicken in the instant pot also yields a valuable bonus: homemade chicken stock that can be used as a base for soups or stews.
Having this versatile recipe at your disposal means you’ll always have a variety of tasty dinner options available, from classic roasted chicken to creative meals built around a rotisserie-style bird.
Chicken Pesto Pasta
Just imagine sinking your teeth into a creamy pasta dish bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, perfect for a bright dinner on a warm evening. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, earthy mushrooms, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a delightful harmony that will tantalize the taste buds of both children and adults alike.
This effortless recipe is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice to serve in a large pasta dish at an outdoor gathering or family dinner.
Chicken Burrito Bowl
Simply put, this deconstructed chicken burrito meal offers all the flavors you adore in a nutritious and healthy serving. Preparation is remarkably swift, requiring just 10 minutes to gather the ingredients and another 10 minutes for cooking time in the instant pot. This recipe excels as a rapid solution when time is of the essence – be it a busy day or an unexpected gathering with guests.
Its quick preparation makes it perfect for scenarios where you need to whip up something satisfying without exerting too much effort, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied and happy.
Cheddar Ranch Chicken
Featuring a delicious combination of flavors and textures, this cheddar ranch shredded chicken makes an excellent filling for sandwiches, baguettes, and sliders. Not only is it incredibly tasty served over rice or paired with a jacket potato, but the versatility of this dish also allows you to get creative with its applications. The tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich, creamy cheese all come together to create a truly satisfying meal.
For those looking to elevate their work lunches, consider making a batch of this chicken and using it as a topping for a fresh, crunchy salad.
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Varying the way you prepare your BBQ chicken can be a great way to mix things up and add some excitement to your meals. Whether you’re serving it as part of a casual dinner, a backyard barbecue, or even a potluck, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion. The combination of sweet, smoky flavors in the sauce pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, making it a dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again because of how easy it is to make.
Teriyaki Chicken
When it comes to Teriyaki chicken, the first thing that comes to mind is an explosion of flavours – sweet, sticky, salty, and aromatic notes all perfectly harmonized. This popular Japanese-inspired dish has become a favourite among foodies worldwide, and for good reason. With its rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken, it’s no wonder why people love to devour it in restaurants. But what if you could recreate this culinary masterpiece at home?
With the help of your instant pot, that’s exactly what you can do! This recipe is perfect for when you have friends coming over, as it’s easy to cook in large quantities and serves with steamed rice and sautéed Asian cabbage makes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Top Down Jerk Chicken
While many people may assume that cooking chicken in an instant pot is a straightforward process, the truth is that browning the chicken without it sticking can be a bit tricky. Fortunately, this recipe has got you covered with its jerk marinade, which not only adds flavor but also helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the pot. Whether you choose to serve it with rice and peas, fried plantain, slaw, or chips, this dish is sure to bring a taste of the Caribbean into your kitchen.
With its generous use of fresh chillies, this recipe is perfect for those who love spicy foods and are looking for a new twist on traditional jerk chicken.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Holding a dish of creamy chicken Alfredo in your hands feels like a real treat to indulge in. The richness and indulgence come from the generous use of whole milk and double cream, giving it an ultra-velvety texture that’s hard to resist. The sauce is carefully flavoured with garlic, basil, chicken broth, and parmesan cheese, creating a complex flavour profile that balances punchy, savoury, and tangy notes perfectly.
This versatile recipe uses fettuccine pasta as its base, but feel free to experiment with other long, flat noodles like spaghetti or tagliatelle, or even shorter shapes such as penne for a different twist on this classic dish.
Instant Pot Orange Chicken
Zeroing in on the flavors of China, this recipe is a healthier alternative to takeout that still packs a punch when it comes to taste and texture. The chicken remains moist and tender, all while being coated with a rich, velvety sauce infused with notes of honey and caramelized garlic. As you take your first bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of sweet and sour that will leave you craving more.
Whether served alongside a colorful vegetable stir-fry or a warm, comforting serving of homemade egg fried rice, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in no time.
Braised Paprika Chicken
Taking centre stage in this recipe are the tender and juicy chicken thighs, which can be cooked directly from frozen, making it an ideal solution for using up any unwanted poultry in your freezer. The addition of vibrant and smoky paprika adds a depth of flavour that perfectly complements the rich tomato and cream cheese sauce.
This delectable combination is then served atop a bed of indulgently buttery pasta, creating a truly satisfying and comforting dinner experience that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Savoring the flavors of India, this mild yet delicious curry has become a staple in many households, thanks to its simplicity in preparation using an instant pot. Unlike some recipes that rely on shortcuts or pre-made mixes, every component of this dish is crafted from scratch, with the instant pot taking care of the more labor-intensive tasks. The result is a culinary experience reminiscent of a high-end restaurant, yet it’s made possible right within your own home.
Serving it with fluffy rice and crispy naan bread will elevate the presentation to a whole new level, making it an ideal choice for entertaining friends and family.
Chicken Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Helping to round out this delicious dish are a variety of bold and complementary flavors, featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, rich sour cream, and pungent chives. This harmonious combination creates a truly satisfying meal that is sure to hit the spot. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes provides a delightful contrast to the robust savory flavors of the meat and the tangy zip of the sour cream.
For an added touch, feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations to find your perfect pairing for these perfectly cooked spuds.
Chicken And Vegetable Wild Rice Soup
Making use of its numerous health benefits, wild rice is a whole grain that contains an abundance of essential nutrients. Its slightly chewy texture and earthy, nutty flavor profile pair perfectly with the mushrooms in this recipe, elevating them to new heights. Meanwhile, the succulent and meaty chicken provides a satisfying contrast in texture, while the numerous vegetables add bursts of color and flavor to each bite.
Ultimately, all of the ingredients are brought together by the creamy, velvety soup that manages to strike a delicate balance between lightness and richness.
Instant Pot Lemon & Tarragon Chicken
Bring out the flavors of a timeless classic with lemon and tarragon chicken, a dish that has been delighting palates for generations. The harmonious union of aromatic tarragon and zesty lemon perfectly complements the tender and juicy chicken, resulting in a culinary experience that will leave you wanting more. With an instant pot, you can ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection every time, eliminating any guesswork in the cooking process.
You can then serve this mouthwatering dish with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed potatoes and steamed greens, adding a delightful contrast of textures to each bite.
Coq Au Vin
Regardless of whether you’re hosting a date night or a dinner party for friends, this coq au vin recipe is guaranteed to make a lasting impression on your guests. Rich in flavour and satisfyingly comforting, it’s the perfect dish to warm up on a chilly winter evening. The classic French recipe combines tender chicken with the bold, meaty undertones of red wine, allowing you to get creative with your choice of vegetables.
Serve it alongside creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes for an unbeatable combination.
Instant Pot Roast
Varying from traditional Sunday roasts, this instant pot roast makes cooking effortless and quick. With minimal prep time of just 20 minutes, you can have a deliciously cooked meal ready for your family in no time. The chicken turns out juicy, the potatoes are perfectly tender, and the vegetables are cooked to perfection. This is an ideal solution for busy days when you want to enjoy a lovely roast dinner with your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.
Instant Pot Chicken Cacciatore
Yearning for a taste of Italy? This Italian dish, packed with rich tomatoes, juicy olives, savoury onions, aromatic garlic, and herbs, is elevated by the addition of succulent chicken. The wine-infused sauce not only enhances the flavour profile but also draws out the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the meat, creating a depth of taste that’s truly exceptional. Meanwhile, the crunchy bell peppers add an exciting texture and a boost of nutrients, making this dish a well-rounded delight.
Whether you choose to serve it with pasta or potatoes, this recipe promises to deliver a sumptuous and satisfying meal.
Summary
Offering a wide range of mouth-watering recipes that are remarkably easy to prepare, these dishes allow you to indulge in flavoursome chicken without spending an excessive amount of time in the kitchen. The beauty of these recipes lies in their ability to provide restaurant-quality food at a fraction of the cost and from the comfort of your own home.
Whether you’re searching for elegant dinner options, family-friendly favorites, soups, or creative salad toppings, this list is designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
Directions
Among the various recipes listed, choose one that catches your attention. By clicking on its name, you’ll be directed to a dedicated webpage. Here, you can gather all the necessary ingredients and instructions for preparing the dish. Once you’ve completed cooking, don’t forget to indulge in the finished product – and if you’re satisfied with the outcome, consider sharing your thoughts by leaving a review.
