Are you ready to transform your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make? Say hello to Instant Pot Country Chicken! This mouthwatering recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a medley of fresh vegetables, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes. Imagine sinking your fork into juicy chicken infused with aromatic herbs, nestled among vibrant carrots, celery, and onions, all bathed in a savory broth. Whether you're a busy parent or simply looking to impress your guests, this recipe is your ticket to a comforting, home-cooked meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Read on to discover how to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and thyme on both sides.
- Slice the onion into thin rings and chop the carrots and celery into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add a small amount of oil and briefly brown the chicken breasts on each side for 2-3 minutes to develop a golden color and seal in flavor.
- Remove the browned chicken breasts and set them aside on a clean plate.
- In the same Instant Pot, add the sliced onions, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften and release their aromatics.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits for added flavor.
- Carefully place the browned chicken breasts back into the Instant Pot, nestling them among the vegetables.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to "Sealing", and select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and vegetables from the Instant Pot. Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the chicken with the tender vegetables and a ladle of the cooking broth. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley.
Tips
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and thyme when seasoning your chicken. These flavors will elevate the dish and bring out the natural taste of the ingredients.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take the time to brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables. This step adds depth and richness to your dish, making it even more flavorful.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables. Not only do they taste better, but they also add vibrant color and nutrition to your meal.
- Check for Doneness: Always ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. If it’s not quite there, a couple of extra minutes in the pot can make all the difference.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of your dish.
- Make it a Meal: Serve your Instant Pot Country Chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious broth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
