Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that delivers tender, juicy chicken with the perfect balance of bright lemon and savory garlic. Cooking in the Instant Pot ensures the chicken cooks quickly and retains its moisture, while the lemon and garlic infuse the meat with a burst of aromatic flavor. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep and can be on the table in less than 30 minutes. Served with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad, this Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken is a simple yet satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken:
- Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and heat the olive oil. Once hot, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the Instant Pot. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, oregano, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Pressure Cook the Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken to the pot and nestle it into the liquid. Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and select “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” on high pressure. Cook for 8-10 minutes for chicken breasts (or 10-12 minutes for thighs), depending on thickness. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
- Finish and Serve:
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. If desired, turn the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function and simmer the sauce for a few minutes to reduce and thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Serve the chicken with the sauce poured over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Pair with rice, potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
