Instant Pot Magic: Fast Recipes for Delicious Meals
Cooking quick and tasty meals doesn’t have to be complicated. With an Instant Pot, you can have a satisfying dish ready in no time. Below is a simple recipe that anyone can follow, whether you’re new to pressure cooking or just looking for a hassle-free meal idea. Plus, some tips on how to adapt it for an air fryer when you want a crispy finish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup chopped vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, or green beans)
Steps
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Add olive oil and let it heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Season the chicken with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken in the Instant Pot and lightly brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
- Add chicken broth and any optional vegetables you like.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 8 minutes.
- When cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully release the remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, check that the chicken is cooked through, and serve hot.
Tips and Variations
- If you prefer a crispy texture, transfer the cooked chicken to an air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until golden.
- You can swap chicken broth for beef or vegetable broth depending on your taste.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or your favorite seasoning blend to change up the flavor.
- For a one-pot meal, add rice or quinoa before pressure cooking, adjusting the liquid amount accordingly.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge and can be reheated quickly in the air fryer for added crispness.
