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Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipe

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This Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken breasts in just 18 minutes using the pressure cooking method. Seasoned with a blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper, and cooked in a savory broth, this recipe ensures moist and delicious chicken every time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, the chicken can also be served with a simple homemade gravy made from the cooking juices.

Ingredients

Seasoning

  • ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 225 grams each, 2 lbs total)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 to 1½ cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Combine the Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Evenly sprinkle this seasoning mixture over all sides of each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
  2. Sear the chicken (optional): Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting and wait until it indicates 'hot'. Add the oil. Sear the chicken breasts in batches if needed, cooking each side until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the chicken breasts and set aside. This step adds flavor but is optional.
  3. Deglaze the pot: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits left from searing. This prevents a burn warning and adds flavor to the broth.
  4. Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the Instant Pot on top of the broth. Dot the butter on top of the chicken. Secure the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select Pressure Cook or Manual mode and set the timer for 8 minutes for 200-250 gram (8 oz) chicken breasts, adding 1-2 minutes for larger pieces. It will take about 10 minutes to reach pressure before the timer counts down.
  5. Release pressure: When the cooking time finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes, then carefully open the valve to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid and remove the chicken from the pot. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
  6. Optional gravy: To make a gravy, mix equal parts cornstarch and water (about 1-2 tablespoons each) to create a slurry. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir in the slurry to the cooking juices. Cook until the mixture thickens, then serve it alongside the chicken.

Notes

  • Searing the chicken is optional but adds a deeper flavor and color.
  • Adjust pressure cooking time based on the size of the chicken breasts to avoid under or overcooking.
  • Use low sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
  • Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain its juices.
  • Gravy made from the cooking juices enhances the dish but can be skipped for a lighter meal.

Find it online: https://glowcooks.com/juicy-instant-pot-chicken-breast-recipe/