We couldn’t be more excited to share with you this mouthwatering recipe for Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy. With the help of our trusty pressure cooker, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken breasts in no time at all. And as if that wasn’t enticing enough, we’ll also guide you through creating a luscious gravy that will take your taste buds to new heights. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy yet delicious dish that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Chicken breast
The star of the show! We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth adds depth and richness to the dish. You can use store-bought chicken broth or make your own homemade version for an extra special touch.
Flour
Flour is used to thicken the gravy and give it a smooth texture. It adds a rich and savory element to the dish.
Butter
Butter brings richness and a velvety texture to the gravy. It enhances the flavors and adds a touch of indulgence.
Onion
Onions provide a wonderful base flavor for the dish. They become sweet and caramelized during the cooking process, adding complexity and depth.
Garlic
Garlic adds a delicious aroma and a punch of flavor to the recipe. It complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Salt
Salt is essential to enhance the flavors of the dish. It brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and helps to balance all the other ingredients.
Pepper
Pepper adds a gentle kick and warmth to the dish. It pairs beautifully with the other seasonings and spices.
Dried thyme
Thyme is a herb that adds a subtle earthiness and aromatic essence to the dish. It complements the chicken and other flavors wonderfully.
Parsley
Parsley not only adds a touch of vibrant green color to the final presentation but also adds a fresh and herby flavor to the dish.
Instructions
Now that we have our mouthwatering ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions on how to make this delectable Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. This step ensures that every bite of chicken is flavorful and delicious.
Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic
Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Add butter to melt, followed by diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and garlic becomes fragrant. This process releases their natural flavors and creates a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 3: Add the chicken and broth
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the Instant Pot, nestling them among the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, which will infuse the chicken with even more succulent flavor.
Step 4: Cook on high pressure
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure. Let the chicken cook for a few minutes until it reaches the desired tenderness. With the Instant Pot, the chicken cooks quickly and retains its moisture, resulting in juicy and succulent meat.
Step 5: Make the gravy
Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and set them aside. Select the sauté function again and sprinkle flour into the remaining liquid in the pot. Whisk continuously to create a smooth gravy. Let the gravy simmer and thicken to your desired consistency. The flour acts as a natural thickening agent, giving the gravy a velvety texture.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the Instant Pot, coating them with the delicious gravy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a complete and comforting meal. Enjoy the tender chicken breasts smothered in flavorful gravy!
Tips
Here are some tips to take your Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy to the next level:
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts
We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They are quick to cook and absorb flavors beautifully. The result is tender, juicy chicken that melts in your mouth.
Make sure to season the chicken well
Seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme is essential. This step ensures that each bite of chicken is packed full of flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
Add additional spices or herbs for more flavor
Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs to customize the dish to your taste. You can add a pinch of paprika for a smoky flavor or a sprinkle of rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Adjust the gravy thickness to your preference
If you prefer a thicker gravy, add more flour and whisk until desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner gravy, add a little more chicken broth and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Serve with mashed potatoes or rice
To complete the meal, serve your Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. These options make perfect accompaniments, soaking up the flavorful gravy and adding a comforting element to the dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
While this recipe specifically calls for chicken breasts, you can certainly use chicken thighs if you prefer. The cooking time may vary slightly, but the end result will still be delicious and tender.
Can I use homemade chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using homemade chicken broth will add an extra layer of flavor and depth to the dish. Feel free to use your homemade broth or your favorite store-bought version.
Can I use cornstarch instead of flour?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch for flour if you prefer. Cornstarch is a common thickening agent used in many recipes, including gravies.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy recipe. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I make this recipe with bone-in chicken breasts?
While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can adapt it to use bone-in chicken breasts if you prefer. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive recipe, you’re now equipped to make a flavorful and comforting Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy. The tender chicken breasts, smothered in a velvety gravy, will impress your family and friends. Follow the steps, add your personal touch, and enjoy a delicious meal that is both easy and delightful. Bon appétit!
