How To Cook Boneless Chicken Breast In Instant Pot

Mastering the Art of Cooking Tender and Juicy Boneless Chicken Breast in an Instant Pot

When it comes to cooking boneless chicken breast, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. This versatile kitchen appliance takes the guesswork and the hassle out of preparing this lean and protein-rich cut of meat. With the right techniques and a little bit of patience, you can achieve perfectly tender and juicy boneless chicken breasts every time. So, let’s dive in and learn how to work magic with your Instant Pot!

Choose high-quality boneless chicken breast

Before we get started, it’s essential to select high-quality boneless chicken breast for the best results. Look for fresh chicken breasts that are plump and firm, without any discoloration or unpleasant odors. Organic or free-range chicken breast is an excellent choice as it tends to be more flavorful and raised without antibiotics or hormones.

Prepping your chicken breasts

Once you have your chicken breasts ready, it’s time to give them a little TLC. Here’s how:

1. Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps remove any impurities and excess moisture.
2. Season the chicken breasts with your favorite herbs and spices. You can never go wrong with a classic blend of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Feel free to get creative and use other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or paprika for added flavor.
3. If your chicken breasts are larger in size, you may want to consider butterflying them. This method involves cutting horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, creating two even halves. Butterflying ensures that the chicken cooks more evenly and quickly.

Using your Instant Pot for perfectly cooked chicken breast

Now that your chicken breasts are prepped and ready, it’s time to fire up your Instant Pot! Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Once it’s hot, add a drizzle of olive oil to the pot.
2. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pot, making sure they’re not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches if they don’t fit comfortably in a single layer.
3. Sear the chicken breasts on each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the finished dish.
4. Next, add a liquid of your choice to the Instant Pot. Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even just plain water work well. The liquid will help create steam and keep the chicken moist during cooking.
5. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the pressure release valve to the sealing position.
6. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the cooking time. For boneless chicken breasts, around 6-8 minutes of cooking time on high pressure should do the trick. Remember, the thicker the chicken breast, the longer the cooking time required.
7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
8. Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and let them rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in even more tender and succulent meat.
9. Slice or shred the chicken breasts as desired and serve immediately. They are perfect for salads, sandwiches, wraps, or as a protein-packed main dish alongside your favorite sides.

Now you have the knowledge and the skills to cook boneless chicken breast in your Instant Pot like a pro! The possibilities are endless with this delicious and nutritious protein. Experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and cooking times to create the perfect dish to suit your taste. Get cooking and enjoy!