[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Boneless Chicken Breast In Instant Pot?

Boneless chicken breast is a versatile and lean protein that can be cooked in many ways. Using an Instant Pot to cook boneless chicken breast is a convenient and efficient method as it can lock in the flavors and moisture while significantly reducing the cooking time. This article will guide you through the selection, preparation, cooking process, and troubleshooting common issues to ensure you achieve perfectly cooked boneless chicken breast in your Instant Pot.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Boneless Chicken Breast In Instant Pot

The cooking time for boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot varies based on its thickness, but a general guideline is to cook it for 6-8 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, and then a quick pressure release.

Selection

When selecting boneless chicken breast for the Instant Pot, it’s important to choose pieces that are similar in thickness to ensure even cooking. Look for fresh, plump chicken breasts without any discoloration or unpleasant odor. The size and thickness of the chicken breasts will impact the cooking time, so try to choose ones that are of a similar size to ensure uniform cooking.

Preparation

Before cooking the boneless chicken breast in the Instant Pot, there are a few preparation steps to ensure the best results:

Thawing

If using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Thawing the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight is the safest method to ensure they defrost evenly and stay at a safe temperature.

Trimming

Trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the chicken breasts to ensure a clean and uniform appearance.

Seasoning

Season the chicken breasts according to your preference. You can use salt, pepper, herbs, spices, or a marinade to add flavor.

Liquid

Adding a flavorful liquid such as chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even just water to the Instant Pot can enhance the taste and moisture of the chicken breasts.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Boneless Chicken Breast

The cooking times for boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot can vary slightly based on factors such as the thickness of the chicken, whether it’s fresh or frozen, and the desired level of doneness. As a guideline, use the following cooking times:

• Fresh, Thin-Cut Boneless Chicken Breast: 6 minutes on high pressure
• Fresh, Regular Thickness Boneless Chicken Breast: 8 minutes on high pressure
• Frozen, Thin-Cut Boneless Chicken Breast: 10 minutes on high pressure
• Frozen, Regular Thickness Boneless Chicken Breast: 12 minutes on high pressure

These cooking times should be followed by a 5-minute natural pressure release, followed by a quick pressure release to ensure the chicken is cooked through while maintaining its moisture.

How To Cook Boneless Chicken Breast In Instant Pot

Now, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of cooking boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot:

Step 1: Season The Chicken

• Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices of your choice. You can also use a marinade to add flavor to the chicken.

Step 2: Add Liquid To The Instant Pot

• Pour 1 cup of chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water into the Instant Pot. The liquid will create steam and help build pressure while adding flavor and moisture to the chicken.

Step 3: Place The Chicken In The Instant Pot

• Carefully place the seasoned boneless chicken breasts into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer and not stacked on top of each other. This promotes even cooking.

Step 4: Set The Cooking Time

• Close the Instant Pot with the lid, ensuring the venting knob is set to the sealing position. Set the cooking time based on the thickness and whether the chicken is fresh or frozen, using the guidelines provided in the previous section.

Step 5: Pressure Cooking

• Once the cooking time is set, select the high pressure setting on the Instant Pot and start the cooking process. The Instant Pot will build pressure and then begin the cooking cycle.

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

• After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to sit for 5 minutes for a natural pressure release. This is crucial as it allows the chicken to continue cooking in the residual heat while preventing the moisture loss that can occur with a quick release.

Step 7: Quick Pressure Release

• After the natural pressure release, carefully turn the venting knob to the venting position to release any remaining pressure quickly. Once the pressure is fully released, it’s safe to open the Instant Pot.

Step 8: Check The Doneness

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C), indicating that it is fully cooked. If the temperature is lower, return the chicken to the Instant Pot for additional cooking time.

Step 9: Rest And Serve

• Once the boneless chicken breast is fully cooked, remove it from the Instant Pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dry Chicken

• If the boneless chicken breast comes out dry, it may have been overcooked. To prevent this, reduce the cooking time slightly, especially if the chicken breasts are on the thinner side. Additionally, consider using a flavorful liquid in the Instant Pot to help retain moisture.

Undercooked Chicken

• If the chicken is undercooked, return it to the Instant Pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on high pressure. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Uneven Cooking

• To ensure even cooking, try to select chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness. If the chicken breasts vary in size, consider adjusting the cooking time to accommodate the thicker pieces.

Cooking boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot is a convenient and efficient way to prepare a lean and versatile protein. By following the guidelines for selection, preparation, cooking times, and troubleshooting, you can achieve perfectly cooked boneless chicken breast with enhanced flavors and moisture. Experiment with various seasonings, marinades, and liquid options to customize the flavor of the chicken to your liking. With the step-by-step process outlined in this article, you can confidently prepare tender and succulent boneless chicken breast using your Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Boneless Chicken Breast

The Instant Pot is a multifunctional electric pressure cooker that has gained immense popularity for its ability to quickly and effectively cook a wide range of dishes. One of the standout features of the Instant Pot is its ability to cook boneless chicken breast to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes using traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re looking to prepare a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, the Instant Pot is an invaluable tool for cooking boneless chicken breast.

One of the conveniences of using an Instant Pot is its ability to cook frozen boneless chicken breast without the need for defrosting. When cooking from frozen, it’s important to adjust the cooking times to ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature. For frozen boneless chicken breast, the Instant Pot cook times are as follows:

• Frozen Boneless Chicken Breast: Cook for 10-12 minutes on high pressure with a quick pressure release.

It’s important to note that cook times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken breast. For thicker cuts, additional cooking time may be required to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.

Achieving Perfect Texture

Achieving the perfect texture when cooking boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot is essential for a delicious end result. The key to achieving a tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked chicken breast lies in the cooking method and the use of the Instant Pot’s high-pressure cooking setting. Here are some tips for achieving the perfect texture:

• Use the High-Pressure Setting: When cooking boneless chicken breast, use the high-pressure setting on the Instant Pot to quickly cook the chicken while retaining its moisture and tenderness.

• Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking boneless chicken breast can result in a dry and tough texture. To prevent overcooking, it’s important to follow the recommended cook times and use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

• Natural Release vs. Quick Release: After cooking the chicken, choosing between a natural pressure release and a quick pressure release can impact the texture of the chicken. A natural release allows the chicken to continue cooking in the residual heat, while a quick release halts the cooking process immediately. For boneless chicken breast, a quick pressure release is often preferred to prevent overcooking.

Flavor Infusion

The Instant Pot not only offers a quick and efficient cooking method for boneless chicken breast, but it also excels at infusing flavor into the meat. By using aromatic ingredients and liquids, you can enhance the flavor profile of the chicken and create delicious, well-seasoned dishes. Here are some flavor infusion techniques for cooking boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot:

• Use Aromatic Ingredients: Garlic, onions, herbs, and spices can be added to the Instant Pot to infuse the chicken with savory flavors. Searing the chicken with these aromatic ingredients before pressure cooking can further enhance the depth of flavor.

• Liquids and Broths: Adding flavorful liquids such as chicken broth, white wine, or citrus juices to the Instant Pot can infuse the chicken with moisture and rich flavor. These liquids also contribute to creating a delicious sauce or broth that can be used to accompany the cooked chicken.

• Marinades and Rubs: Preparing a marinade or dry rub for the chicken and allowing it to marinate for a few hours before cooking can significantly enhance the flavor of the chicken. When using a marinade, be sure to drain off excess liquid before placing the chicken in the Instant Pot to avoid excess liquid in the pot.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Boneless Chicken Breast

In addition to pressure cooking, the Instant Pot offers alternative cooking methods that can be used to prepare boneless chicken breast. These methods provide flexibility and the opportunity to explore different cooking techniques to achieve a variety of culinary outcomes. Some of these alternative cooking methods include:

• Sautéing: Using the sauté function on the Instant Pot, you can quickly sear boneless chicken breast to create a golden-brown exterior before pressure cooking. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken, adding a depth of color and flavor to the finished dish.

• Steaming: The Instant Pot’s steaming function can be utilized to cook boneless chicken breast using a steaming basket or rack. This gentle cooking method preserves the natural juices of the chicken while ensuring that it is cooked to perfection.

• Slow Cooking: While the Instant Pot is known for its pressure cooking capabilities, it also has a slow cooker function that can be used to cook boneless chicken breast at a low and consistent temperature, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.

• Broiling: After pressure cooking boneless chicken breast in the Instant Pot, transferring it to a broiler for a few minutes can create a crispy and caramelized exterior, adding another dimension of texture and flavor to the dish.

Instant Pot Tips For Boneless Chicken Breast

To ensure that your boneless chicken breast is cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, it’s essential to follow some key tips and best practices. These tips will help you achieve consistent results and elevate the quality of your cooked chicken. Here are some Instant Pot tips for cooking boneless chicken breast:

• Trim Excess Fat: Before cooking, trim any excess fat from the chicken breast to prevent it from becoming greasy during cooking.

• Season Generously: Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs to enhance its natural flavor before cooking. This ensures that the chicken is well-seasoned throughout.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), use a meat thermometer to accurately measure the doneness of the chicken.

• Prevent Overcrowding: When cooking multiple pieces of chicken in the Instant Pot, ensure that they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking and to prevent them from sticking together.

• Deglaze the Pot: After sautéing or searing the chicken, be sure to deglaze the Instant Pot by adding a small amount of liquid and scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step prevents the "burn" error and infuses the dish with additional flavor.

• Rest Before Serving: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy texture.

Creative Instant Pot Boneless Chicken Breast Recipes And Variations

The versatility of boneless chicken breast combined with the convenience of the Instant Pot opens up a world of creative recipe possibilities. From classic dishes to innovative flavor combinations, here are some creative Instant Pot boneless chicken breast recipes and variations to inspire your culinary creativity:

Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced and zested
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
  2. Select the sauté function on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, then remove from the pot.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for a minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Return the chicken breasts to the Instant Pot, then add the lemon juice.
  6. Secure the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Coconut Curry Chicken

• Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice for serving

• Instructions:

  1. Select the sauté function on the Instant Pot and heat a small amount of oil. Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
  2. Add the chicken cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in the red curry paste and cook for a minute to release its flavor.
  4. Pour in the coconut milk and add the sliced bell pepper.
  5. Secure the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
  6. Serve the coconut curry chicken over cooked rice.

BBQ Pulled Chicken

• Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Hamburger buns or sandwich rolls

• Instructions:

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, then pour the BBQ sauce mixture over them.
  4. Secure the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
  5. Shred the chicken using two forks, then serve on hamburger buns or sandwich rolls.

These creative recipes showcase the variety of flavors and cuisines that can be achieved when cooking boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot. Feel free to customize the ingredients and seasonings to match your personal taste preferences and culinary inspirations.

Conclusion

Cooking boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot offers a convenient and efficient way to prepare this versatile protein. By understanding the appropriate cook times, texture considerations, flavor infusion techniques, and alternative cooking methods, you can elevate your culinary skills and create an array of delicious dishes. Whether you prefer classic flavors or adventurous combinations, the Instant Pot provides the perfect platform for exploring a world of culinary possibilities with boneless chicken breast. With the knowledge and inspiration provided in this guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on a flavorful journey of cooking boneless chicken breast in your Instant Pot.

FAQS

What Is The Recommended Cook Time For Cooking Boneless Chicken Breasts In An Instant Pot?

The recommended cook time for boneless chicken breast in an Instant Pot is 8 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 5 minutes. This will result in perfectly cooked, tender chicken.

Can I Cook Frozen Boneless Chicken Breasts In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen boneless chicken breasts in an Instant Pot. The cook time will need to be increased to 10 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release for 5 minutes.

How Much Liquid Should I Use When Cooking Boneless Chicken Breasts In An Instant Pot?

It is recommended to use at least 1 cup of liquid when cooking boneless chicken breasts in an Instant Pot. This can be water, broth, or a combination of both.

Do I Need To Use A Trivet When Cooking Boneless Chicken Breasts In An Instant Pot?

While it is not necessary, using a trivet can help elevate the chicken and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This can also help the chicken cook more evenly.

How Can I Ensure My Boneless Chicken Breasts Are Fully Cooked In An Instant Pot?

To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit for fully cooked chicken. You can also slice into the thickest part of the chicken to check for any pinkness. If it is still slightly pink, return it to the Instant Pot for an extra couple of minutes.