How To Poach Chicken In The Instant Pot

How To Poach Chicken In The Instant Pot

Easy and Delicious Instant Pot Chicken Poaching

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to cook chicken that results in tender, juicy meat every time? Look no further than your Instant Pot! Poaching chicken in the Instant Pot is a simple and efficient method that yields perfectly cooked chicken for all your favorite recipes. Whether you want to use the poached chicken in salads, sandwiches, or as a standalone protein, the Instant Pot makes the process a breeze.

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cups of chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to poach chicken in the Instant Pot:

  1. Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and add the onion, carrots, and celery.
  2. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  5. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
  6. Using tongs, transfer the poached chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding as desired.

Benefits of Poaching Chicken in the Instant Pot

Poaching chicken in the Instant Pot offers several advantages:

  • Time-saving: The Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional poaching methods.
  • Tender and Juicy: The chicken cooks in a flavorful broth, resulting in moist and succulent meat.
  • Flavor Infusion: The chicken absorbs the delicious flavors of the broth and aromatics, adding depth to your dishes.
  • Versatility: Once poached, the chicken can be used in a variety of recipes, from soups and stews to salads and sandwiches.

Usage Tips

Here are some tips to get the most out of your Instant Pot chicken poaching experience:

  • For added flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to the poaching liquid.
  • Adjust the seasoning of the broth to suit your taste preferences.
  • Use the poached chicken immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for future use.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of poaching chicken in the Instant Pot is a game-changer for home cooks. With minimal effort and a hands-off approach, you can achieve tender, flavorful chicken that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking to streamline your cooking process, the Instant Pot is a valuable tool for poaching chicken with consistently delicious results.

Want to learn more about how to poach chicken in the Instant Pot? Join our discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum and share your tips and experiences!
FAQ:
Yes, you can use frozen chicken to poach in the Instant Pot. However, it’s important to adjust the cooking time to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked. Increase the cooking time by a few minutes to account for the frozen chicken.
How much water should I use to poach chicken in the Instant Pot?
For poaching chicken in the Instant Pot, you’ll want to use enough water to fully submerge the chicken. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 cup of water for a standard 6-quart Instant Pot.
How long does it take to poach chicken in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time for poaching chicken in the Instant Pot will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts or thighs. Typically, it takes about 8-10 minutes on high pressure for fresh chicken and 12-15 minutes for frozen chicken.
Should I use the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting on the Instant Pot to poach chicken?
You can use either the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting on the Instant Pot to poach chicken. Both settings will achieve the same result, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
Can I add seasoning or herbs to the water when poaching chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can add seasoning, herbs, or aromatics to the water when poaching chicken in the Instant Pot to infuse flavor into the chicken. This can enhance the taste of the chicken and add depth to the poaching liquid.

Was this page helpful?