Looking for a delicious and easy recipe for dinner tonight? Look no further! We have the perfect solution for you – our Instant Pot Lemon Chicken recipe. This mouthwatering dish is bursting with flavor, thanks to the tangy and refreshing taste of lemon. With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you can have this tasty meal on the table in no time. So get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and flavorful chicken dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Delicious and Easy Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Recipe
Are you looking for a quick and tasty chicken recipe that is bursting with fresh lemon flavor? Look no further! Our Instant Pot Lemon Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a trusty Instant Pot, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in no time. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To make this delectable Instant Pot Lemon Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lemons
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this recipe is minimal, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without all the fuss. You will only need about 10 minutes to prepare the chicken and gather all the necessary ingredients.
Cooking Time
Thanks to the Instant Pot, the cooking time for this Lemon Chicken recipe is a breeze. From start to finish, it will take you approximately 30 minutes to have a succulent and flavorful dish ready to be devoured.
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
Before we start cooking, we need to marinate the chicken to infuse it with the refreshing taste of lemon. Begin by juicing one of the lemons and setting the juice aside. Next, in a bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring that it is well-coated. Finally, pour the lemon juice over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Sautéing the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to give it a little color and seal in the flavors before pressure cooking. Preheat your Instant Pot by selecting the “Sauté” function and heat the butter until it is melted. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the pot and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned. Sautéing the chicken not only adds a lovely golden color but also enhances its taste.
Step 3: Pressure Cooking the Chicken
After the chicken has been sautéed, it’s time to let the Instant Pot work its magic. Add the chicken broth to the pot, close the lid, and set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 8 minutes. The high-pressure cooking will lock in all the flavors, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.
Step 4: Adding Lemon Flavor
Once the pressure cooking is complete, carefully release the pressure by moving the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position. Once all the pressure has been released, open the lid and remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot. Squeeze the remaining lemon over the chicken to add an extra burst of tangy flavor.
Step 5: Thickening the Sauce
To transform the cooking liquid into a luscious and flavorful sauce, we need to thicken it. Select the “Sauté” function on the Instant Pot and let the liquid come to a gentle boil. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with a splash of cold water until smooth, then slowly add it to the boiling liquid, whisking continuously until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serving and Garnishing
Once the sauce has thickened, return the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot and gently toss them in the sauce to ensure they are well coated. To serve, place a chicken breast on a plate or platter and spoon some of the lemony sauce on top. For a vibrant and fresh touch, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley.
Tips and Variations
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding some chopped shallots or diced onions during the sautéing process.
- If you prefer a tangier lemon taste, you can add some lemon zest to the marinade or sprinkle it on top as a garnish.
- Add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice in the sauce for an extra zing.
- For a lighter version of this recipe, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- Serve this Lemon Chicken with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or a side of mixed greens for a complete and satisfying meal.
We hope you enjoy this delicious and easy Instant Pot Lemon Chicken recipe. It’s a perfect choice when you’re craving a flavorful and wholesome meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With its zesty lemon flavor and juicy chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Bon appétit!