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instant pot chicken breast

Instant Pot Chicken Breast

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This Instant Pot chicken breast recipe gives you tender, moist chicken every time. Works with fresh or frozen chicken and includes exact cook times for perfect results.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Natural Release Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Meal Prep
Cuisine: American
Calories: 165

Ingredients
  

  • 2 to 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 lbs total)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
    Rub evenly with olive oil.
  2. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides.
  3. Pour 1 cup chicken broth into the Instant Pot insert.
    Place trivet inside if using.
  4. Place seasoned chicken breasts inside the pot (on trivet or directly in liquid).
  5. For Fresh Chicken Breast:

    1 inch thick → Cook on High Pressure for 6 to 7 minutes
    1½ inches thick → Cook 8 to 9 minutes

    For Frozen Chicken Breast:

    1 inch thick → Cook 10 to 11 minutes
    1½ inches thick → Cook 12 to 13 minutes
    Seal lid and set valve to “Sealing.”
  6. Allow pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes.
    Then carefully turn valve to release remaining steam (quick release).
  7. Insert meat thermometer into thickest part.
    Internal temperature must reach 165°F.
    If under 165°F, reseal and cook 1 to 2 additional minutes.
  8. Remove chicken and let rest 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalProtein: 31gFat: 3.5g

Notes

  • Cook time depends on thickness, not weight.
  • Do not overcook, this causes dry or rubbery texture.
  • Always use at least 1 cup liquid to prevent burn warning.
  • Let chicken rest before slicing to keep juices inside.

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