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    Home » Mediterranean recipes

    Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipe

    Published: Feb 18, 2020 · Modified: Apr 13, 2021 by Shadi HasanzadeNemati · This post may contain affiliate links .

    15471 shares
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    This instant pot chicken breast recipe uses Mediterranean spices and gives you juicy and tender chicken breast every time. It’s simple, easy and quick! 

    instant pot chicken breast recipe is easy and give you tender chicken breast every time.

    Many of our chicken recipes use chicken breast because it's so versatile. You can make stuffed chicken breast, sheet pan Mediterranean chicken or turn it into a one pan Greek chicken and rice that’s ready in no time! If you're in a pinch, making chicken breast in the instant pot can give you flavor-packed chicken in 20 minutes. A quick sear on each side locks the juice inside and makes this the juiciest chicken breast ever! Make sure to read through tips and tricks, video, and serving suggestions.

    Table Of Contents:
    • Cooking chicken breast in your instant pot 
    • Why this recipe works
    • The ingredients 
    • How to make instant pot chicken breast
    • Frequently asked questions
    • Serving suggestions
    • What to do with the leftovers
    • Notes and tips
    • Step-by-Step Recipe

    Cooking chicken breast in your instant pot 

    If you own an instant pot, you know it’s a lifesaver when it comes to making dinner. We have previously talked about instant pot poached chicken which is perfect for making chicken salad or adding to a quick instant pot chicken soup for some extra protein. I also have a step-by-step tutorial on how to make instant pot chicken and rice, an easy recipe that’s made entirely in one pot, packed with veggies and so much flavor!

    Today I’m going to show you how to cook juicy chicken breast in the instant pot flavored with fresh Mediterranean spices. This is an easy chicken recipe that's perfect for a quick dinner with a side of veggies, salad, rice or potatoes. 

    Why this recipe works

    I love cooking chicken breast in the instant pot for a few reasons:

    • It’s quick: It takes only 20 minutes to make this recipe and most of it is hands-off. 
    • It's very versatile: You can do so much with the cooked chicken breast: from salads and sandwiches to a complete meal. More on that below. 
    • Juicy chicken every time: Nothing is worse than dry chicken breast. This foolproof method of cooking gives you super moist and tender chicken breast every time. 

    The ingredients 

    Chicken breast

    For this recipe, you need boneless skinless chicken breast. If using frozen chicken, make sure it’s thawed completely before you start cooking. The cooking time listed is for three regular-sized chicken breasts (6-8 oz).

    Spices

    I used a mix of onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt and pepper. You can use cayenne pepper if you like the chicken to be spicy. 

    Olive oil

    A couple tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil is used to sear the chicken in the instant pot. 

    Chicken stock

    We use chicken stock to cook the chicken breast. This adds even more flavor to the chicken. 

    to make this recipe you need chicken breast, spices, salt and olive oil plus chicken stock.

    How to make instant pot chicken breast

    Make sure to watch the video and read the recipe card for our step-by-step tutorial.

    Season the chicken

    In a small bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pat dry the chicken on both sides. Rub the spice mix generously on both sides of the chicken breast. 

    Sear in the instant pot

    Press the “saute” button and heat some olive oil in the instant pot.  Sear the chicken breasts in the instant pot for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer them to a plate. 

    Cook the chicken

    Pour the chicken stock into the instant pot and scrape the brown bits at the bottom (they hold all the flavor!). Place the trivet in the instant pot and place the chicken breasts on the trivet. Lock the lid and make sure the valve is on “sealing”. Press the “cancel” button and then the “pressure cook” or “manual” button. Make sure it’s on high pressure and set the timer for 6 minutes. 

    Do a natural pressure release

    Once the cooking time is done, let the pressure release naturally for five minutes. Then do a quick release. Check out this article to read more about natural and quick pressure release.

    Frequently asked questions

    How long do you cook chicken breast in instant pot?

    This depends on the size and weight of your chicken breast. For 2 to 3 regular sized chicken breast, each weighing about 6 ounces, it takes about 6 minutes to cook.

    Why is my instant pot chicken rubbery?

    If your chicken is rubbery, it means it hasn't cooked enough and you need to cook it longer.

    Can I make this with frozen chicken?

    Since the recipe calls for seasoning and searing the chicken on both sides, this recipe cannot be made with frozen chicken. If you have frozen chicken, let it thaw completely before using it in the recipe. However, you can try my instant pot poached chicken recipe you want to cook the chicken from frozen.

    Serving suggestions

    There are so many ways to serve this juicy chicken breast. Here are some of my favorites:

    • Serve it as a light lunch with some Mediterranean salad, green bean salad or Mediterranean potato salad. 
    • Slice it and turn it into a wrap with some pita, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and homemade tzatziki sauce or tahini sauce.
    • Have it as a complete meal with some instant pot brown rice or oven roasted vegetables. 
    This chicken is juicy and very flavorful. You can make wraps or salads with it.

    What to do with the leftovers

    First, let's talk about that liquid gold you have at the bottom of the instant pot. The liquid you used to cook the chicken is full of flavor. You can make it into a quick gravy/sauce by adding some slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with ⅓ cup water) to it and cook it on “saute” for a few minutes for it to thicken. You can then serve it with the chicken!

    As for the chicken breast, luckily, it keeps very well in the fridge. Simply place the leftovers in an airtight glass container and refrigerate for up to 4 day. You can reheat it in the microwave.

    Notes and tips

    • If using bone-in chicken breast, the cooking time will change and instead of 6 minutes of high pressure cooking, it will be 8 minutes plus 10 minutes of natural pressure release. 
    • Make sure not to overcook the chicken. 6 minutes in enough for a regular sized chicken breast. 
    • Like your chicken spicy? Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to your spice mix. 
    This is an easy chicken recipe that you can make in 20 minutes using a few ingredients.

    Step-by-Step Recipe

    Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Breast Recipe

    Shadi HasanzadeNemati
    This instant pot chicken breast recipe uses Mediterranean spices and gives you juicy and tender chicken breast every time. It’s simple, easy and quick!
    4.26 from 59 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 2 mins
    Cook Time 20 mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine Mediterranean
    Servings 3 servings
    Calories 237 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast 2 to 3 pieces
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • ½ teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • ½ teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • ½ cup chicken stock

    Instructions
     

    • Mix onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
    • Pat dry the chicken on both sides. Rub the spice mix on both sides of the chicken breast.
    • Press the "saute" function on the instant pot and add the olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer them to a plate.
    • Add the chicken stock to the instant pot and scrape the bottom to get the brown bits.
    • Place the trivet in the instant pot and place the chicken breasts on the trivet.
    • Lock the lid and make sure the valve is on "sealing". Press the "pressure cook" button and make sure it's on "high".
    • Set the timer for 6 minutes on instant pot. It will take about 5-10 minutes for the instant pot to come to pressure.
    • Once the cooking time is up, do a natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Then turn the valve to "venting" and do a quick pressure release.
    • Open the lid and serve with your favorite sides.

    Video

    Notes

    • Serving suggestions: 
      • Make a light lunch with some Mediterranean salad or Mediterranean potato salad.
      • Slice it and turn it into a wrap with some pita, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and homemade tzatziki sauce.
      • Have it as a complete meal with some instant pot brown rice or oven roasted vegetables.
    • If using bone-in chicken breast, The cooking time will change and instead of 6 minutes of high pressure cooking, it will be 8 minutes plus 10 minutes of natural pressure release. 
    • Can I make this with frozen chicken? Since the recipe calls for seasoning and searing the chicken on both sides, this recipe cannot be made with frozen chicken. If you have frozen chicken, let it thaw completely before using it in the recipe. 
    • Make sure not to overcook the chicken. 6 minutes in enough for a regular sized chicken breast. 
    • Like your chicken spicy? Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to your spice mix. 
     
    •  

    Nutrition

    Calories: 237kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 33gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 98mgSodium: 1009mgPotassium: 641mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 224IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 1mg
    Did you make this recipe? Let us know how it was by leaving a comment and a 5-star review!
    « Easy Instant Pot Chicken And Rice (Video)
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    15471 shares

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Cathy

      October 23, 2022 at 8:39 pm

      5 stars
      They came out great!!! It was my first time cooking chicken in the Instant Pot. I must say, it was probably the best chicken breast I've ever made. Thank you!

      Reply
    2. Sara Welch

      May 03, 2021 at 1:00 pm

      5 stars
      Another great recipe for my Instant Pot! Served this for dinner last night and it did not disappoint! So quick and easy; perfect for busy evenings!

      Reply
    3. Wanda

      May 03, 2021 at 11:19 am

      5 stars
      Always looking for new IP and chicken recipes! Bookmarking to make this weekend!

      Reply
    4. Shinta Simon

      May 03, 2021 at 11:07 am

      5 stars
      You have the most amazing tips! I use my Instant Pot for so many recipes, and this trivet method is such a great tip. Thank you for sharing

      Reply
    5. Angela

      May 03, 2021 at 10:04 am

      5 stars
      Such a quick and easy way to make flavorful chicken breasts. I love the instant pot!

      Reply
    6. Nathan

      May 03, 2021 at 9:53 am

      5 stars
      This chicken looks so delicious! I love ho easy it is to make it in the instant pot, and that blend of spices sounds perfect for chicken breast! Can't wait to give this a try 🙂

      Reply
    7. Shirley

      January 24, 2021 at 8:43 am

      I thought we need 1 cup of liquid in pot. Fo you get burn notice.

      Reply
      • Shadi HasanzadeNemati

        January 25, 2021 at 11:23 am

        Hi Shirley, the recipe calls for 1/2 cup, but you can sure add 1 cup of liquid just to make sure you're avoiding the burn notice.

        Reply
    8. Cierra

      August 10, 2020 at 4:00 pm

      Is it 237 calories per serving or total? Thanks! 🙂

      Reply
      • Shadi HasanzadeNemati

        March 15, 2022 at 12:57 am

        Per serving!

        Reply
    9. Mahy

      February 19, 2020 at 12:33 pm

      5 stars
      Now this is the chicken recipe to hold on to - fantastic results that I would be delighted to have in front of me right now!

      Reply
    10. Jessica

      February 19, 2020 at 11:39 am

      5 stars
      I'm ready to dive in right now! This will be dinner tonight 🙂

      Reply
      • Shadi HasanzadeNemati

        February 25, 2020 at 12:50 pm

        It's so good!

        Reply
    11. Toni

      February 19, 2020 at 11:35 am

      5 stars
      I loved it! So juicy and delicious!!

      Reply
    12. Roxana

      February 19, 2020 at 11:24 am

      5 stars
      Loved reading your post and recipe. So simple and yet so delicious. And so quick.

      Reply
      • Shadi HasanzadeNemati

        February 25, 2020 at 12:50 pm

        Thank you!

        Reply
    13. Erika

      February 19, 2020 at 10:05 am

      5 stars
      I love making this in the IP! It turns out so flavorful and delicious!

      Reply
      • Melissa

        October 12, 2020 at 1:43 pm

        What if you have 3 pieces and they are larger chicken breasts? How would that effect the amount of time you cook them?

        Reply

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    Welcome to Unicorns in the Kitchen, where we share delicious recipes from our kitchen to yours. You’re in for a delicious adventure and collection of unique and tasty recipes.

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