If you love meals that feel cozy, bursting with fresh flavors, and come together faster than you expect, you’re going to adore this Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe. It’s that perfect blend of tender, juicy chicken infused with fragrant Italian herbs that tastes like you’ve been slow-cooking it all day, yet it’s ready in just about half an hour. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend feast, this dish brings satisfying comfort with a bright, herbaceous twist that keeps everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe lies in its simple but powerful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the chicken broth keeps the meat moist and flavorful, while the combination of Italian herbs, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar lift the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Adds rich moisture and depth to the chicken as it cooks, preventing dryness.
- 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast: The star of the dish, providing tender, lean protein that soaks up all those wonderful seasonings.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, or thyme): This classic herb blend delivers authentic Italian flavors with a blend of earthiness and brightness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle yet savory garlic note without overpowering the herbs.
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances the herbs’ earthiness with a hint of sweetness that caramelizes lightly while cooking.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out the true flavors of all the ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked pepper: Adds the perfect mild kick and enhances the overall taste.
How to Make Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
Start by setting up your Instant Pot with the trivet insert inside the pot. Pour in the chicken stock, which will create a flavorful steaming environment and help keep the chicken juicy throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, coat your boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, brown sugar, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. This is where all the magic happens—each piece gets infused with those vibrant Italian herb notes and a gentle sweetness for a wonderfully balanced flavor.
Step 3: Arrange Chicken in the Instant Pot
Place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the trivet in a single layer. Spreading them out ensures they cook evenly and soak up the herb-infused steam without getting soggy or losing texture.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to the closed position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes if using fresh chicken breasts, or 15 minutes if cooking from frozen. Once the cooking cycle is done, carefully perform a natural pressure release or quick release depending on your time preference. Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
How to Serve Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil really brightens up the dish and adds a burst of color. A little grated Parmesan cheese on top can also lend a deliciously savory finish that pairs beautifully with the herb flavors.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like steamed asparagus, roasted vegetables, or even a simple mixed green salad. Creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of fluffy rice will soak up all the fragrant juices, making every bite a delight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party, slice the chicken and serve it atop a bed of garlic butter pasta or layered over a warm bruschetta toast with sun-dried tomatoes and olives. You can even shred the chicken and stuff it into a warm pita for a quick and tasty lunch wrap.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your delicious Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, maintaining its juicy flavor and making for an easy meal on busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save time later, freezing cooked chicken is a great option. Place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cooked chicken stays good for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste or texture.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat leftovers in the microwave with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit fattier and tend to stay juicy naturally. Adjust cooking time slightly if using bone-in thighs, but the herbs and method will work just as beautifully.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can replicate this recipe on the stovetop by simmering chicken breasts gently in broth and herbs, but keep an eye on moisture levels. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking really locks in flavor and tenderness faster.
Can I add vegetables to cook alongside the chicken?
Yes, veggies like carrots or zucchini can be added on the trivet or directly in the broth, though some may become very soft due to pressure cooking, so choose firmer vegetables or add them after cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for gluten-sensitive diners.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. Instant Pot cooking times are reliable, but this extra check always gives peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a go-to for easy, flavorful meals. It’s wonderfully versatile, incredibly satisfying, and proof that simple ingredients cooked well truly shine. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth and comfort of Italian herbs paired with your perfectly tender chicken.
Print
Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (fresh) or 15 minutes (frozen)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with classic Italian herbs and spices. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish combines the convenience of pressure cooking with simple ingredients to deliver a delicious, healthy meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano, basil, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Liquid
- 1 cup chicken stock
Instructions
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Insert the trivet into the Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of chicken stock to create a base for pressure cooking and prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, brown sugar, kosher salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this spice mixture for infused flavor.
- Place Chicken in Instant Pot: Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer on the Instant Pot’s trivet to ensure even cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the vent is set to the closed position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes if using fresh chicken, or 15 minutes if the chicken is frozen.
- Release Pressure and Check: Allow for natural pressure release or quick release based on your timing preference. Verify that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen chicken breasts depending on your schedule; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Natural pressure release will keep the chicken moist but takes longer than quick release.
- Italian seasoning can be customized with your favorite herbs like oregano, basil, or thyme.
- To add more flavor, consider searing the chicken in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, pasta, or over a salad for a complete meal.
