Are you craving a mouthwatering, foolproof chicken dinner that will have your family begging for seconds? Look no further! This Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy recipe is about to revolutionize your weeknight cooking, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Imagine juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken smothered in rich, velvety gravy - all prepared in less time than it takes to order takeout!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet gravy mix
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 packet of gravy mix, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Set your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the tablespoon of olive oil.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the Instant Pot. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly browned. This step adds flavor to the chicken.
- After browning the chicken, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside on a plate.
- Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the Instant Pot, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot and release any browned bits stuck to the bottom.
- Return the browned chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the packet of gravy mix with 1 cup of water. Stir until well combined and there are no lumps.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
- Close the Instant Pot lid securely and make sure the valve is set to the 'Sealing' position.
- Select the 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' function and set the timer for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts. They should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, you can stir the gravy in the pot to combine it well.
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve them with the gravy drizzled on top. Enjoy your Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Gravy!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety and optimal juiciness.
- Don't Skip Searing: The initial sauté step is crucial for developing deep, caramelized flavor in your chicken breasts.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing a 5-minute natural pressure release helps keep the chicken tender and prevents it from becoming tough.
- Gravy Consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can use the 'Sauté' function after cooking to reduce and thicken the sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be easily stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for batch cooking.
- Customize Your Seasonings: While the recipe calls for basic salt and pepper, feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Even Chicken Thickness: For most consistent cooking, try to choose chicken breasts of similar size and thickness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
