Juicy 20-Minute Pressure Cooker Chicken – So Tender!
Introduction
Busy weeknights call for a dinner solution that’s both quick and bursting with flavor. This Juicy 20-Minute Pressure Cooker Chicken is a game-changer—delivering impressively tender and moist chicken in a fraction of the usual time. Thanks to the magic of pressure cooking, you can have a wholesome protein centerpiece with minimal effort, perfect for a family meal or meal prep.
Why This Pressure Cooker Chicken is a Must-Try
What sets this chicken recipe apart is its incredible juiciness and tenderness, achieved in just 20 minutes. The pressure cooker locks in moisture and infuses the meat with seasonings, making every bite delectable. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can season it to match any cuisine, keep it for healthy salads, or slice it for weeklong lunches.
Selecting and Prepping Your Ingredients
For the juiciest results, start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Trim any excess fat using a sharp pair of KitchenAid All Purpose Kitchen Shears with Protective Sheath, Black for safety and efficiency. A simple blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon makes a bright, flavorful marinade, but you can use your favorite seasonings too.
Slice extra veggies quickly and evenly with the help of the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper if you’re adding vegetables to the pressure cooker for a built-in side dish.
Essential Tools for Foolproof Chicken
A reliable pressure cooker is key here. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart ensures evenly cooked, succulent chicken every time. For perfect doneness, measure internal temperature using a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking—your chicken should reach 165°F.
Serving and Storing Your Chicken
After pressure cooking, let your chicken rest briefly, then shred it easily using a Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) to keep them fresh for quick lunches or salads all week long.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe serves 4 and each portion is lean and protein-rich, clocking in at around 250 calories per serving (depending on cut and seasoning), making it a smart choice for those tracking their nutrition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry on a Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloths, 6-Pack, Dark Grey. In a large bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
- Set your Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart to “Sauté” and add an extra drizzle of olive oil. Sear chicken for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden (optional for deeper flavor).
- Cancel Sauté mode, add chicken broth, and, if using, spread chopped vegetables around the chicken. Secure the lid and set to “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” for 8 minutes (thighs) or 9 minutes (breasts). Ensure the valve is sealed.
- When time is up, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking—it should read at least 165°F.
- Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Shred or slice as desired using the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black.
- Serve chicken hot, with veggies and pan juices spooned over the top, or let cool for meal prepping and salads. Store any leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup).
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–9 minutes (+ pressure build/release time)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Recap: The Magic of Pressure Cooker Chicken
This Juicy 20-Minute Pressure Cooker Chicken offers unbeatable flavor and tenderness in record time. Using just a handful of pantry staples and a pressure cooker, you’ll have a versatile protein perfect for countless easy meals and meal prepping. Effortless, healthy, and crowd-pleasing—this weeknight winner belongs in your kitchen routine!