Instant Pot Chicken Tenders are the epitome of a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Juicy, tender, and infused with savory spices, these chicken tenders are cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional methods. The Instant Pot locks in moisture and flavor, making every bite a delectable experience. This recipe is not only ideal for busy weeknight dinners but also versatile enough to be dressed up for entertaining guests or served as a delicious snack.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The Instant Pot makes cooking chicken tenders a breeze, cutting down on cooking time while ensuring they stay juicy and tender. Plus, this dish is perfect for various diets, whether you’re looking for a high-protein meal or a gluten-free option. The seasoning blend elevates the flavor profile, making it a family favorite that even picky eaters will enjoy. With minimal cleanup and quick cooking, it fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.
Tips and Tricks
To make your Instant Pot chicken tenders even easier and more flavorful, consider these tips:
1. Marinate: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite seasoning blend or sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Sauté Function: Use the sauté function to brown the chicken tenders before pressure cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Liquid: Always ensure you have enough liquid in the pot; the Instant Pot requires it to build pressure. Chicken broth works wonderfully!
4. Batch Cooking: Cook a larger batch and freeze the extras for quick meals later in the week.
Make Ahead Tips
For those who love meal prepping, this recipe is a great choice! You can marinate the chicken tenders a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 2 days. Alternatively, if you want to cook a large batch, cook them, let them cool, and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Recipe Variations
Mix it up with these tasty variations:
1. Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.
2. Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade for a fresh flavor.
3. Crispy Coating: After cooking, dip the tenders in a breadcrumb mixture and broil for a few minutes for a crispy finish.
How to Serve
Serve your Instant Pot chicken tenders hot with a side of creamy dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard. Pair them with fresh veggies, a crisp salad, or fluffy rice for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added color and freshness, and arrange them on a platter for an appealing presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
For a delightful pairing, serve your chicken tenders with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea would complement the dish beautifully. As for sides, consider pairing with roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw to balance out the meal. For dessert, a light fruit salad or sorbet would be a refreshing ending.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, place cooled tenders in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Equipment Needed
You will need an Instant Pot for this recipe. If you don’t have one, a stovetop pressure cooker can be used, but adjust the cooking times accordingly. Additionally, a meat thermometer is useful to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe accommodating for dietary restrictions, consider the following:
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your seasoning blends are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sauces or marinades.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, but double-check any additional ingredients for hidden nuts.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to the marinade. In the fall, consider using spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor profile. During winter, you can incorporate citrus zest for a bright touch amidst the colder months.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, but increase the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? You can use water or vegetable broth as a substitute.
How do I know when chicken tenders are done? The internal temperature should reach 165°F for fully cooked chicken.
Instant Pot Chicken Tenders
Instant Pot Chicken Tenders are the epitome of a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken tenders in the spice mixture until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
- Sauté (Optional): Turn the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode. Add olive oil and brown the chicken tenders for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth to the pot.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' or 'Pressure
- Cook' on high for 6 minutes.
- Release Pressure: Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Check Doneness: Ensure chicken tenders have reached an internal temperature of 165°F. If not, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- 4Serve: Remove the tenders and serve with your choice of sides and sauces.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 413Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 53mgSodium: 1721mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 1gSugar: 1gProtein: 22g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, making Instant Pot chicken tenders is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with minimal effort. With the flexibility to adapt the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, these chicken tenders will impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!
