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Instant Pot Chicken Breast
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Instant Pot Chicken Breast

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time17 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or 1/2 tsp each: oregano, basil, thyme
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil optional, for extra sear
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice or zest for brightness

Instructions

  • Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Yes, this is your dry brine moment—make it count.
  • Set your Instant Pot to Sauté. If you’re using oil, add it and let it shimmer. Sear the chicken for about 1–2 minutes per side, just enough to get a bit of color.
  • Pour in the broth or water. Scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to loosen any tasty brown bits. These are flavor gold nuggets.
  • Secure the lid, set to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 6 minutes. Yes, six. Don’t overthink it; this isn’t a marathon, it’s a sprint.
  • Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the rest. Open the lid and check that the internal temp is at least 165°F (74°C).
  • If you want extra juiciness, slice the chicken and return it to the pot for a quick 1-minute warm-up in the remaining steam. Optional: toss with lemon juice or zest for a bright finish.