Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about what you can pair with Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables. This dish is incredibly versatile, so the right sides can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are three options that’ll make your taste buds dance:
Garlic Bread: Nothing complements a hearty chicken dish better than warm, crusty garlic bread. Slather some butter mixed with minced garlic on a slice of bread, pop it in the oven, and get ready for a treat.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with a touch of lemon and fresh veggies gives a refreshing counterbalance to the richness of your chicken. It absorbs flavors wonderfully and adds a nutty texture to your plate.
Steamed Green Beans: These green delights add crunch and color. Just a quick steam will make them vibrant and tasty. Drizzle a bit of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt to finish.
Now that you’ve got some amazing side options in mind, let’s dive deeper into making the perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables!
Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and the family is hungry. You’re staring into the fridge, contemplating takeout. But wait—what if you could whip up a hearty, comforting meal in a fraction of the time it takes to order? That’s where the magic of the Instant Pot comes in. Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables is not just a dish; it’s a lifesaver for busy lives.
I’ve found myself leaning on this recipe week after week. It’s delicious, nutritious, and gives me that “I’m a kitchen wizard” feeling without requiring years of culinary training. The Instant Pot does much of the heavy lifting, turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. Let’s explore how to create this culinary delight!
What is Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables?
Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables is a one-pot dish that combines tender chicken pieces, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s a complete meal that’s cooked in a fraction of the time usually required for roasting or simmering. The Instant Pot’s unique cooking method traps steam, ensuring everything cooks evenly and remains juicy.
You will also like the following Dinner recipes!
Why This Recipe Works
Time-Efficiency: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time. No need for simmering for hours. Imagine cooking an entire meal in just 30 minutes!
Flavorful Results: This recipe locks in flavors. The combination of fresh herbs and spices blends beautifully during cooking, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste.
Nutrition Packed: You’re getting protein from chicken and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It’s a balanced meal that satisfies both hunger and health needs.
Easy Cleanup: It’s a one-pot wonder! Less time washing dishes means more time with family or catching up on your favorite show.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes, peeled and halved
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, and breasts if desired)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, cleaned and sliced in half
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 large carrots, cut into thick chunks
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 medium red onion, coarsely chopped
How To Make This Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables
Now that your ingredients are in hand, let’s break down the steps. Follow these instructions closely, and soon you will have a delightful meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing and chopping your vegetables. Halve the baby potatoes, chop the red onion, slice the mushrooms, and cut the carrots into thick chunks. Fresh garlic should be minced finely. This preparation helps everything cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Set your Instant Pot to the “sauté” function. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season them with smoked paprika, Italian herb blend, and oregano. Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side. This step locks in a lot of flavor, so don’t skip it!
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Broth
Throw in the potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth and add the lemon juice. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to “sealing.” Set it to manual mode and choose 12 minutes of high pressure cooking. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Natural Release
Once your cooking time is over, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. After that, you can quickly release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “venting.”
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully open the lid. Your Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables should look fragrant and delicious. Plate it up, and for a finishing touch, add a drizzle of extra olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Enjoy every bite!
Tips & Tricks
To elevate your cooking game, here are some solid tips:
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary can make a significant difference in taste. If they’re not available, dried herbs can substitute, though freshness always reigns supreme.
Avoid Overcrowding: When adding your chicken and vegetables, make sure not to overload the pot. This ensures even cooking.
Adjust Cook Time: If you’re using larger chicken pieces, consider extending the cook time by a couple of minutes.
Broth Options: For added flavor, use homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought variety. Avoid overly salty options to keep control over sodium levels.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to innovate by adding your favorite spices. Curry powder or cumin might introduce a lovely twist!
Nutrition Information
For those tracking their intake, here’s a breakdown of approximate nutrition per serving:
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
Storing leftovers from your Instant Pot meal is straightforward. Let the chicken and vegetables cool down to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. These can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing in individual portions, which can last for up to three months.
What Sides Would Complement Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables?
To create a complete meal, consider these irresistible sides:
Garlic Bread: Crusty and flavorful garlic bread pairs wonderfully with chicken. It’s perfect for soaking up the juices. A simple preparation will do; bake it until golden brown, and enjoy.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad enriched with veggies complements the dish’s flavors. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for brightness.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli lightly steamed maintains its crunch and adds extra nutrients. Drizzle some lemon juice or olive oil for added taste.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
Running low on some items? Here are alternatives you can consider:
Chicken Cuts: If you don’t have bone-in chicken, skinless chicken breast or thighs work just as well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Potatoes: No baby potatoes? Cut sweet potatoes into chunks for a slightly sweeter flavor profile and extra vitamins.
Stock Substitutes: If no chicken broth is available, vegetable broth or even water in a pinch will suffice, though they may not provide the same depth of flavor.
Mixed Veggies: Can’t find carrots or mushrooms? Use whatever veggies you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can add interesting flavors and textures.
Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables
Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes peeled and halved
- 4 cloves fresh garlic finely minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian herb blend
- 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms cleaned and sliced in half
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 large carrots cut into thick chunks
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 medium red onion coarsely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by washing and chopping your vegetables. Halve the baby potatoes, chop the red onion, slice the mushrooms, and cut the carrots into thick chunks. Fresh garlic should be minced finely. This preparation helps everything cook evenly in the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Set your Instant Pot to the “sauté” function. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil. Toss in the minced garlic and red onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
- Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season them with smoked paprika, Italian herb blend, and oregano. Brown the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side. This step locks in a lot of flavor, so don’t skip it!
Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Broth
- Throw in the potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, and rosemary. Pour in the chicken broth and add the lemon juice. Sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
- Secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Make sure the valve is set to “sealing.” Set it to manual mode and choose 12 minutes of high pressure cooking. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Natural Release
- Once your cooking time is over, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. After that, you can quickly release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to “venting.”
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Carefully open the lid. Your Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables should look fragrant and delicious. Plate it up, and for a finishing touch, add a drizzle of extra olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary can make a significant difference in taste. If they’re not available, dried herbs can substitute, though freshness always reigns supreme.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When adding your chicken and vegetables, make sure not to overload the pot. This ensures even cooking.
- Adjust Cook Time: If you’re using larger chicken pieces, consider extending the cook time by a couple of minutes.
- Broth Options: For added flavor, use homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought variety. Avoid overly salty options to keep control over sodium levels.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to innovate by adding your favorite spices. Curry powder or cumin might introduce a lovely twist!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can replicate this recipe in a slow cooker. Just add in the ingredients as instructed, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Introduce hot sauce or additional crushed red pepper flakes during cooking. For an extra kick, try adding diced jalapeños.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Ensure that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Can I double this recipe?
You can double most ingredients. However, be cautious about the volume in your Instant Pot to prevent overfilling. Cook time remains mostly the same.
Can I add other proteins like sausage?
Absolutely! Chicken sausage or even turkey sausage will complement the flavors. Just cook it until browned during the sauté step.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables is more than just a recipe; it’s a life-saver for busy weeknights. With its quick cooking time and rich flavors, it’s hard not to fall in love with this dish. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can create a yummy meal that your whole family will enjoy.
And remember, cooking doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right recipe and a bit of creativity, your kitchen could be the place everyone wants to gather! So fire up that Instant Pot, and let’s turn some simple ingredients into a fantastic feast. Bon appétit!
