12 Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipes That Make Dinner So Easy

12 Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipes That Make Dinner So Easy – because weeknights shouldn’t be stressful. When you’re juggling work, family, and everything in between, these foolproof Instant Pot recipes are here to save the day. Chicken breast transforms into tender, juicy perfection in minutes, proving that quick meals don’t have to sacrifice flavor or quality. From creamy garlic parmesan to zesty lime cilantro, these dishes cover all the bases – hearty comfort food, light and healthy options, and everything in between.

Say goodbye to dry, boring chicken forever. The Instant Pot’s magic ensures every bite stays moist while locking in bold flavors. Whether you need a 15-minute miracle after soccer practice or an impressive-but-easy dish for unexpected guests, we’ve got you covered with recipes that require minimal prep but deliver maximum taste. Even better? Most of these use pantry staples, so you can whip up dinner without an extra grocery run.

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and herbs in a creamy sauce. This recipe is not only tasty but also straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The combination of tender chicken breast simmered in a luscious cream sauce creates a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy. Pair it with pasta or serve it over rice for a complete dinner experience.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh spinach
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, over pasta or rice.

Cilantro Lime Chicken

Cilantro Lime Chicken is a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe combines zesty lime juice with fresh cilantro, creating a vibrant marinade that elevates tender chicken breasts. It’s simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a quick weekend meal.

The bright flavors of lime and cilantro provide a delicious twist, transforming plain chicken into a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Plus, using the Instant Pot ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender, giving you a meal that’s not only tasty but also hassle-free.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are well-coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and sear the marinated chicken on both sides for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
3. Pressure Cook: Add 1/2 cup of water to the pot. Close the lid and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Honey mustard chicken thighs are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that make any dinner feel special. This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The chicken is juicy, flavorful, and coated in a delicious honey mustard sauce that everyone will love.

Using your Instant Pot makes cooking this dish a breeze. It locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in tender chicken that pairs well with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can whip up this dish!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in the Instant Pot.
3. Add the Sauce: Pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
4. Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before quick releasing the remaining pressure.
5. Serve: Enjoy the chicken thighs with your favorite sides!

BBQ Chicken with Coleslaw

This BBQ Chicken with Coleslaw is a hit for any dinner table. Juicy chicken breasts smothered in tangy barbecue sauce pair perfectly with a crunchy, refreshing coleslaw. It’s a simple, one-pot dish that brings a burst of flavor and is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this delightful meal in your Instant Pot. The chicken cooks quickly and absorbs the rich barbecue flavor, while the coleslaw adds that much-needed crunch. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or at a gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone’s palate.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon celery seed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place them in the Instant Pot and pour the barbecue sauce over the top.
2. Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
3. Make the Coleslaw: In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed. Mix well and let it sit in the fridge until ready to serve.
4. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it with two forks and mix it with the barbecue sauce in the pot. Plate the chicken and top it with a generous scoop of coleslaw.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken Tikka Masala is a beloved dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This creamy, spiced sauce paired with tender chicken creates a delightful meal that is both comforting and satisfying. With the Instant Pot, making this dish becomes a breeze, allowing you to serve up a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

This recipe combines the richness of yogurt and spices to marinate the chicken, infusing it with incredible flavor. The sauce is a perfect blend of tomatoes and cream, making every bite a delicious experience. Plus, it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners, ensuring you can enjoy this classic dish whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion until soft. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pot, cooking until it starts to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir well.
4. Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, carefully release the pressure.
5. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt to taste. Let it simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy your Chicken Tikka Masala with naan or rice!

Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Buffalo chicken lettuce wraps are a fun and zesty way to enjoy dinner without all the carbs. They pack a punch with spicy buffalo sauce and are complemented by the crunch of fresh lettuce. Perfect for a quick meal, these wraps are simple to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.

The flavor combination of tender chicken, spicy sauce, and crisp lettuce is irresistible. Plus, they’re great for meal prep or a last-minute dinner idea. Gather your ingredients and whip these up in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 head of iceberg lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
• 1/2 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
2. Add Sauce: Pour in the buffalo sauce and close the lid. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooked, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release.
3. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix well with the buffalo sauce.
4. Assemble the Wraps: Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately while fresh and warm!

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggies

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Veggies is a bright and savory dish that brings together the freshness of lemon and the aromatic flavor of garlic. It’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The chicken turns out tender and juicy, while the veggies add a colorful and nutritious touch.

This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables to keep things exciting. Whether you serve it over rice or with a side of crusty bread, it’s a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup green beans
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, thyme, lemon juice, and zest. Place them in the Instant Pot and sear for about 2 minutes on each side.
3. Add the Veggies: Layer broccoli, green beans, and cherry tomatoes over the chicken. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
4. Pressure Cook: Select the manual setting and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, do a quick release of the pressure.
5. Serve: Carefully remove the chicken and veggies. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and simplicity. The savory garlic pairs perfectly with the creamy Parmesan, making every bite a treat. Plus, it’s made in the Instant Pot, which means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with family.

This dish is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. You just need a few ingredients and your Instant Pot to create a meal that feels gourmet without much fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute, then pour in the chicken broth.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of the pressure. Remove the chicken and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Serve the chicken drizzled with the cheesy sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.

Spicy Chicken Fajitas

Spicy chicken fajitas are a delightful way to bring vibrant flavors to your dinner table. This recipe features tender chicken breast, sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, all tossed in a zesty seasoning mix. The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The bold spices give each bite a punch, while the freshness of the vegetables adds a satisfying crunch. These fajitas are versatile, allowing you to serve them in warm tortillas or over rice or salad. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite toppings for a fun and satisfying meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, combine sliced chicken with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Cook the chicken: In your Instant Pot, heat olive oil using the sauté function. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add vegetables: Stir in the sliced bell pepper and onion. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve: Warm the tortillas and fill them with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and fluffy rice in a creamy, savory sauce. With its cheesy goodness and hearty texture, it’s a family favorite that’s both filling and quick to prepare. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can have this delicious meal on your table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for busy nights, this casserole is simple to make and requires minimal cleanup. Just throw all the ingredients into the pot, and let it do the work! It’s a delightful balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add Ingredients to the Pot: In the Instant Pot, combine the seasoned chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and mixed vegetables if using. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Make sure the pressure valve is set to sealing.
4. Release Pressure: After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Stir and Serve: Open the pot, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, and serve warm. Enjoy your easy and tasty Chicken and Rice Casserole!

Mediterranean Chicken with Olives

This Mediterranean Chicken with Olives is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your dinner table. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy without the fuss.

The chicken breast is tender and juicy, infused with the tanginess of olives and a hint of herbs. The dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Pair it with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add the chicken breasts and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
3. Add the chicken broth and olives to the pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
4. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. When done, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch to a quick release.
5. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple

Teriyaki Chicken with Pineapple is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a single bite. This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy teriyaki sauce and the refreshing taste of pineapple, creating a meal that everyone will love.

Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful. Serve it over a bed of rice, and you have a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add olive oil and brown the chicken breasts on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and add the pineapple chunks. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
4. Select the manual pressure cook setting and cook for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred or slice the chicken as desired.
6. Serve the chicken over cooked rice, spooning extra sauce and pineapple on top. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Final Thoughts

The Instant Pot was practically made for chicken breast – it turns what could be a bland weeknight staple into something extraordinary with almost no effort. These 12 recipes prove that delicious, satisfying meals don’t require hours in the kitchen. Keep this collection handy for those nights when time is tight but you still want something great on the table. With options ranging from cozy classics to globally-inspired flavors, you’ll never get bored of chicken again. Here’s to easier cooking and happier mealtimes!