Instant Pot Chicken Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors in a matter of minutes. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, allowing you to enjoy a warm and filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability of the Instant Pot to meld flavors beautifully, creating a stew that feels like it has been simmering all day long.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Instant Pot Chicken Stew for its rich, savory flavor and the ease of preparation it offers. In just under an hour, you can create a delicious, nutritious meal that is perfect for the whole family. The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time while locking in moisture and flavor, resulting in fall-apart tender chicken. With wholesome ingredients like carrots, potatoes, and herbs, this stew fits perfectly into a balanced diet, making it a guilt-free option for those seeking comfort food without the extra calories.
Tips and Tricks
- Sauté First: Always start by sautéing the onions and garlic in the Instant Pot. This step builds a flavorful base for your stew.
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor of your stew heavily depends on the quality of the chicken broth. Use homemade if you have it or a good-quality store-bought option.
- Don’t Skip the Thickeners: Adding a cornstarch slurry at the end will enhance the stew’s texture and give it that classic hearty feel.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep your Instant Pot Chicken Stew ingredients the night before. Chop the vegetables, season the chicken, and store everything in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The next day, all you have to do is sauté and pressure cook. This stew will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with turkey or even beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans instead of carrots and peas.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb Changes: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even fresh parsley for a fresh twist.
How to Serve
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken Stew hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation and flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the stew beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon can enhance the meal. As for side dishes, a simple green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts would make excellent companions. For dessert, consider a light fruit tart or chocolate mousse to round out the meal.
How to Store
Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove over medium heat, or use the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You will need an Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker for this recipe. A cutting board and sharp knife for chopping, and a measuring cup for broth and seasonings will also be necessary. If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by cooking it on low for 6-8 hours.
Dietary Adaptations
To make the recipe dairy-free, ensure your broth is free from dairy ingredients. For gluten-free versions, use cornstarch or a gluten-free thickener instead of flour. To make it vegan, replace chicken with chickpeas or tempeh and use vegetable broth; adjust cooking times accordingly.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, you might add fresh asparagus or peas, while in summer, consider adding corn or zucchini. During fall, root vegetables like sweet potatoes work well. In winter, stick to hearty vegetables like carrots and turnips to keep it comforting and warm.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but increase the cooking time by 5 minutes if using frozen chicken.
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Use any vegetables you enjoy.
- How can I thicken the stew? Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew at the end of cooking.
- What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can make this stew in a slow cooker or on the stovetop; just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How To Make Instant Pot Chicken Stew
Instant Pot Chicken Stew
Instant Pot Chicken Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors in a matter of minutes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 5 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned.
- Add the Vegetables and Broth: Add the carrots, potatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, ensuring nothing is stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken if Desired: If you want a thicker stew, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the stew. Allow it to simmer on 'Sauté' for a few minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 339Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 142mgSodium 905mgCarbohydrates 23gFiber 4gSugar 4gProtein 32g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making Instant Pot Chicken Stew is not just about preparing a meal; it’s about creating comfort and warmth in your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in, and with its versatility, you can easily adapt it to suit any palate. Enjoy the process, and savor the delightful flavors that come together in this easy, satisfying dish. Happy cooking!