Perfectly juicy, flavor-packed, and endlessly versatile, these Instant Pot Chicken Breasts are a weeknight hero you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a hungry family, or simply want reliable, mouthwatering chicken every single time, this easy recipe delivers — fast, with minimal ingredients and tons of savory payoff.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Fast & Reliable: Your Instant Pot Chicken Breasts go from fridge to table in just 30 minutes—no babysitting required!
- Ridiculously Juicy: The pressure lock of the Instant Pot traps moisture, so every bite is plump and never dry—truly a chicken gamechanger.
- Flavorful & Flexible: The magical blend of Italian herbs, garlic, and smoked paprika guarantees savory goodness, while the recipe adapts like a charm to your favorite flavors.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Leftovers are just as tasty the next day and perfect for tossing into salads, wraps, grain bowls, you name it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Breasts lies in its simplicity, but trust me, each ingredient serves a delicious purpose. From robust spices to a splash of broth, the lineup is short but mighty—making every bite deeply seasoned and tender without a fuss.
- Italian seasoning: This classic herb blend infuses the chicken with well-rounded flavor—think basil, oregano, and thyme all in one spoonful.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic punch that makes the chicken almost impossible to resist.
- Smoked paprika: Lends a gorgeous color and subtle smokiness, taking basic chicken over the top.
- Salt and pepper: The trusty pair for essential seasoning—feel free to adjust to taste.
- Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): Aim for evenly sized pieces to ensure perfectly even cooking in your Instant Pot.
- Olive oil: Helps you get that irresistible golden sear, locking in juices and flavor at the start.
- Chicken broth (low or no sodium): Keeps the chicken ultra-moist and builds a subtle, savory base for cooking, but water works in a pinch too!
Variations
The best part? These Instant Pot Chicken Breasts are a total blank canvas! Don’t be shy about riffing on the spices, swapping the liquid, or adjusting for picky eaters—this recipe loves a little creative flair, so make it your own.
- Tex-Mex Style: Substitute chili powder and cumin for the Italian herbs, and add a squeeze of lime at the end for a southwestern kick.
- Lemon-Herb Chicken: Tuck lemon slices under the chicken on the trivet, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill after cooking for a bright, fresh twist.
- Honey Garlic Glaze: Drizzle seared chicken breasts with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic before pressure cooking for a family-friendly sweet-savory finish.
- Dairy-Free & Low-Sodium: Use water instead of broth and check your spice blends to easily accommodate dietary restrictions—still delicious, promise!
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
Step 1: Mix Up the Magic Spice Rub
Start by combining the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This five-ingredient spice mix is what breathes fresh life into regular chicken breasts, so don’t be shy—give it a good stir!
Step 2: Season the Chicken Breasts
Generously rub the spice blend on all sides of your chicken breasts. Get in there with your hands and really coat each piece, ensuring every part is covered for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Sear for Golden Flavor
Turn on the Sauté setting on your Instant Pot and pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them on each side just until golden—about 2 minutes per side. This step is optional (especially if your chicken is frozen), but it adds lovely flavor and texture.
Step 4: Add Broth and Position Chicken
Pour your chicken broth into the bottom of the Instant Pot and pop the trivet inside. Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the trivet to keep them above the liquid; this ensures even cooking and keeps them extra juicy.
Step 5: Pressure Cook to Juicy Perfection
Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to Manual or High Pressure: 5 minutes for fresh chicken, 10 minutes for frozen. Naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release the remaining steam.
Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes—this tiny pause locks in the juices. Then slice, shred, or serve your Instant Pot Chicken Breasts however you love best!
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
- Searing for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step unless you’re in a rush or starting with frozen chicken. That golden crust layers in irresistible savory notes for your Instant Pot Chicken Breasts!
- Natural Pressure Release Matters: Letting your Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes is the real secret to juicy chicken—impatience can lead to drier meat.
- Single Layer Chicken Only: For the most even results, make sure your chicken breasts fit in a single layer on the trivet—this prevents overcooking and dryness.
- Tweak the Seasoning — Fearlessly: This recipe welcomes more garlic, heat, or citrus zest. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the flavors your very own!
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
Garnishes
For a fresh pop of color and flavor, sprinkle your chicken with chopped parsley, basil, or chives right before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of lemon zest or a drizzle of good olive oil takes the whole dish to restaurant level.
Side Dishes
Pair your Instant Pot Chicken Breasts with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a satisfying meal. Or pile slices over fluffy rice, creamy polenta, or pasta for the ultimate comfort food combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the chicken for sandwiches and wraps, shred it for tacos, use it as protein in grain bowls, or layer it on a bed of zoodles. Leftovers hardly ever feel like “leftovers” when you reimagine them this way!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, keep extra Instant Pot Chicken Breasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They’re a lifesaver for quick lunches, dinner salads, and snacks throughout the busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts individually wrapped, or in a airtight container, for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before using however you like.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave (covered, with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist), or in a skillet over low heat. Avoid high heat, which can dry out the chicken—it’s already perfectly cooked!
FAQs
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Can I cook Instant Pot Chicken Breasts from frozen?
Yes, absolutely! Just be sure to separate any stuck-together pieces and extend the cook time to 10 minutes at high pressure. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting and you’ll still end up with juicy, shreddable chicken.
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Do I have to sear the chicken first?
Searing is optional, but it’s one of my favorite steps because it adds color and big flavor. If you’re short on time or working with frozen chicken, you can skip this step, no worries!
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What if I don’t have a trivet for my Instant Pot?
If you don’t have a trivet, you can cook the chicken directly in the broth, though the texture will be more poached. For the best results, you can use a rack or even make a coil out of foil to keep the chicken above the liquid.
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How do I know when the Instant Pot Chicken Breasts are fully cooked?
Check with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The chicken should look opaque throughout and juices should run clear when sliced.
Final Thoughts
Ready to make dinnertime a breeze? Give these Instant Pot Chicken Breasts a whirl and discover just how easy, juicy, and crowd-pleasing homemade chicken can be. I can’t wait for you to try this go-to favorite—happy cooking!
Print
Instant Pot Chicken Breasts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Learn how to make juicy and flavorful Instant Pot chicken breasts with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper or to taste
- 2 pound chicken breasts about 4 to 6 breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Cooking:
- 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium or no sodium added, or water
Instructions
- Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the spice mix generously over each chicken breast.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot on the Sauté setting. Sear the chicken breasts on all sides in batches, if needed. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot, place the trivet inside, then add the chicken on top. Close the lid, set to Manual/High Pressure for 5 minutes (10 minutes for frozen chicken).
- Release Pressure: Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure. Open the lid and transfer chicken to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.
Notes
- If using frozen chicken, ensure they are separated for even cooking.
- Water can be substituted for chicken broth if not making gravy.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 4 days for convenient meals.
- For longer storage, freeze chicken in airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
