Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables Recipe

As a busy parent juggling work, school runs, and everything in between, weeknight dinners can often feel like a Herculean task. Finding something healthy, satisfying, and quick enough to prepare before everyone’s hunger pangs turn into full-blown meltdowns is a constant challenge. That’s where the magic of the Instant Pot and recipes like this Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables truly shine. Let me tell you, this dish has become an absolute staple in our household. The first time I made it, I was skeptical – could something so simple really be that good? The aroma that filled my kitchen as the pressure released was the first hint of the deliciousness to come. And the taste? Tender, juicy chicken infused with the savory flavors of thyme and paprika, nestled amongst perfectly cooked, slightly sweet carrots, hearty potatoes, and crisp-tender green beans – it was pure comfort food in a bowl. Even my notoriously picky eaters devoured it without a single complaint, which, in my book, is a culinary miracle! This Instant Pot Chicken and Vegetables recipe is not just a meal; it’s a weeknight dinner savior. It’s healthy, wholesome, incredibly easy to make, and cleans up in a snap. If you’re looking for a stress-free, family-friendly dinner that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further. This is it.

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor

The beauty of this Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables recipe lies in its simplicity. It uses everyday ingredients that are readily available and combine to create a dish that is far greater than the sum of its parts. Let’s break down each ingredient and explore why it’s essential to the final flavor and texture of this comforting meal.

• 2 lbs Chicken Breast (or Thighs): The Protein PowerhouseChicken is the star of this dish, providing a lean and excellent source of protein. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. You have the flexibility to use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, each offering a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
  • Chicken Breast: Chicken breasts are leaner and cook up to be tender and juicy in the Instant Pot. They are a fantastic choice if you are watching your fat intake. For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for ease of preparation and cooking. Cut them into even-sized pieces, about 1-2 inch chunks, to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the seasonings and broth.
  • Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are richer in flavor and tend to be more forgiving in the Instant Pot, staying moist even if slightly overcooked. They contain a bit more fat than breasts, which contributes to their juiciness and deeper flavor. You can use boneless, skinless thighs or bone-in, skin-on thighs. If using bone-in, skin-on thighs, be sure to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
  For this recipe, using high-quality chicken is key. Opt for organic or free-range chicken whenever possible for the best flavor and nutritional value.
• 4 Cups Mixed Vegetables (Carrots, Potatoes, Green Beans): A Rainbow of NutrientsThis recipe is a fantastic way to load up on your daily dose of vegetables. The combination of carrots, potatoes, and green beans provides a variety of textures, flavors, and essential vitamins and minerals. Feel free to customize the vegetable mix to your liking and what you have on hand.
  • Carrots: Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. They are packed with beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, important for vision, immune function, and skin health. Use about 1-2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces. Baby carrots can also be used for convenience; just halve or quarter them depending on their size.
  • Potatoes: Potatoes provide a hearty and satisfying element to the meal. They are a good source of carbohydrates for energy and also contain potassium and vitamin C. Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent choices as they hold their shape well during pressure cooking. Use about 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled (or unpeeled for extra fiber) and cubed into 1-inch pieces.
  • Green Beans: Green beans add a fresh, slightly grassy flavor and a satisfying crunch. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins K and C, and folate. Use about 1 cup of fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped or cut into bite-sized pieces. Frozen green beans can also be used; add them directly to the Instant Pot without thawing.
  Don’t be afraid to experiment with other vegetables! Other great additions could include:
  • Celery: Adds a subtle savory flavor and aromatic element.
  • Peas: Frozen peas can be added at the very end for a pop of sweetness and color.
  • Corn: Frozen or fresh corn kernels add sweetness and texture.
  • Broccoli or Cauliflower Florets: Add these towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  • Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy depth of flavor.
  Using a variety of colorful vegetables not only enhances the nutritional profile of the dish but also makes it visually appealing.
• 1 Onion, Chopped: The Aromatic BaseOnion is a fundamental aromatic ingredient that forms the flavor base of countless dishes. When sautéed, onions release their sweet and savory compounds, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Yellow or white onions work well in this recipe. Chop the onion into small dice so it cooks down nicely and becomes fragrant during the sautéing process.
• 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Flavor BoosterGarlic is another essential aromatic that adds pungent and savory notes to the dish. Minced garlic releases its flavor more readily than whole cloves. Fresh garlic is always preferred for its robust flavor, but jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch. For a milder garlic flavor, add it later in the sautéing process; for a stronger garlic flavor, sauté it longer with the onions.
• 1 Cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: The Cooking Liquid and Flavor EnhancerChicken broth provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking and infuses the dish with even more chicken flavor. Using low-sodium chicken broth is crucial to control the salt content of the dish. You can also use homemade chicken broth or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. The broth helps to steam the vegetables and chicken to perfection while also creating a delicious sauce.
• 2 tsp Dried Thyme: Earthy HerbaceousnessDried thyme adds a warm, earthy, and slightly minty herbaceousness to the chicken and vegetables. It complements the chicken beautifully and enhances the savory flavors of the dish. Dried thyme is convenient and readily available, but fresh thyme can also be used – use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves.
• 1 tsp Paprika: Smokiness and ColorPaprika, especially smoked paprika, adds a subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish hue to the dish. It enhances the savory notes and adds a touch of warmth. Sweet paprika can also be used for a milder flavor and just color. For a spicier kick, try using a pinch of hot paprika or cayenne pepper.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential SeasoningSalt and pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of all the ingredients. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed throughout the cooking process. Taste the broth before pressure cooking and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil: For Sautéing and FlavorOlive oil is used for sautéing the onions and garlic and adds a healthy fat to the dish. Olive oil has a pleasant flavor that complements the other ingredients. You can also use avocado oil or coconut oil as alternatives. The oil helps to prevent the onions and garlic from sticking to the bottom of the Instant Pot and also helps to develop their flavors.

Using high-quality, fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables and herbs to customize the recipe to your preferences.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Dinner Delight

This Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables recipe is incredibly straightforward and easy to follow. Each step is designed to build layers of flavor and ensure that everything cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot. Let’s walk through the instructions step-by-step:

1. Sauté: Building the Flavor Foundation
   • Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode: This is the first crucial step. Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. This function allows you to sauté ingredients directly in the pot, simplifying the cooking process and minimizing cleanup.
   • Add olive oil: Once the Instant Pot display reads “Hot,” add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot. Let the oil heat up for a few seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers slightly.
   • Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Sautéing the onions and garlic first releases their aromatic compounds and creates a flavorful base for the entire dish. This step adds depth of flavor that you wouldn’t get if you skipped it.
2. Add Chicken: Layering in Protein and Seasoning
   • Season chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings. This step is essential for infusing the chicken with flavor from the inside out. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
   • Add to the pot: Add the seasoned chicken to the Instant Pot on top of the sautéed onions and garlic. You don’t need to brown the chicken at this stage, as it will cook perfectly under pressure. Arranging the chicken in a single layer, if possible, will help it cook more evenly.
3. Vegetables: Adding Nutrients and Bulk
   • Pour in chicken broth: Pour 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the Instant Pot. The broth provides the necessary liquid for pressure cooking and helps to deglaze the bottom of the pot, lifting up any browned bits from the sautéing process (which adds even more flavor!).
   • Add mixed vegetables: Add the chopped carrots, potatoes, and green beans to the pot. Layer the vegetables on top of the chicken. There’s no need to stir at this point. Layering helps to ensure even cooking, as the vegetables closer to the bottom will cook slightly faster.
4. Cook: Pressure Cooking to Perfection
   • Close the lid and seal: Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring that the sealing ring is in place and the valve is set to “Sealing.”
   • Set to “Pressure Cook” for 10 minutes: Press the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” button (depending on your Instant Pot model) and set the cooking time to 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will now begin to pressurize. This process can take about 5-10 minutes, depending on the amount of food in the pot.
5. Release: Managing Pressure for Optimal Texture
   • Natural Pressure Release for 10 minutes: Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep, and the timer will start counting up. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. This means you do nothing and allow the pressure to dissipate on its own. Natural Pressure Release helps to keep the chicken and vegetables moist and tender.
   • Quick Release: After 10 minutes of natural pressure release, carefully do a quick release by moving the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position. Be cautious of the steam that will be released. Use a kitchen towel or utensil to move the valve to avoid getting burned by the hot steam. Quick release stops the cooking process immediately and is necessary after natural release to prevent overcooking the vegetables.
6. Serve: Enjoying Your Homestyle Meal
   • Stir everything together: Once all the pressure is released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the Instant Pot lid. Stir everything together gently to combine the chicken, vegetables, and broth.
   • Enjoy your delicious meal! Serve the Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. The chicken should be tender and juicy, and the vegetables should be cooked through but still slightly firm – not mushy.

Following these instructions precisely will ensure that you create a perfectly cooked and flavorful Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables dish every time. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly easy and hands-off, allowing you to prepare a healthy and delicious meal with minimal effort.

Nutrition Facts: Nourishing Your Body

This Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition facts per serving:

• Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 4-6 servings, depending on portion size. For accurate serving sizes, divide the total amount of cooked food by the number of servings you wish to create.
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving. This is a moderate calorie count, making it suitable for a healthy and balanced meal.
• Protein: 30g per serving. This recipe is an excellent source of protein, primarily from the chicken. Protein is essential for muscle building, repair, and satiety.
• Carbs: 30g per serving. The carbohydrates come mainly from the potatoes, carrots, and green beans. These are complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy and are rich in fiber.
• Fat: 10g per serving. The fat content is relatively moderate, primarily coming from the olive oil and naturally occurring fats in the chicken. These are healthy fats that are important for overall health.
• Fiber: 5g per serving. The fiber content is thanks to the vegetables. Fiber is crucial for digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes feelings of fullness.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Lean Protein: Chicken is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids without excessive saturated fat.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The variety of vegetables provides a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate.
• Fiber-Rich: The vegetables contribute significant dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
• Balanced Macronutrients: This recipe offers a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. You can adjust the recipe to further optimize its nutritional profile by:

• Using Sweet Potatoes instead of White Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are higher in vitamin A and fiber.
• Adding More Non-Starchy Vegetables: Increase the amount of green beans, broccoli, or cauliflower to boost fiber and lower the carb count slightly.
• Using Chicken Breast for the Leanest Option: Chicken breast is lower in fat than chicken thighs.

Overall, Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables is a healthy and nutritious meal choice that is perfect for a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

One of the greatest advantages of this Instant Pot recipe is its speed and convenience. The total preparation and cooking time is remarkably short, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 10 minutesThe prep time is minimal and primarily involves chopping the vegetables, onion, and garlic, and seasoning the chicken. This quick prep is a huge time-saver compared to recipes that require extensive chopping or pre-cooking.
• Cook Time: 20 minutesThe cook time of 20 minutes includes the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure (approximately 5-10 minutes) and the actual pressure cooking time of 10 minutes, plus the 10-minute natural pressure release. The active cooking time is only 10 minutes, which is incredibly fast for a complete meal.
• Total Time: 30 minutesFrom start to finish, this Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables recipe is ready in just 30 minutes. This is significantly faster than traditional cooking methods for similar dishes, which can take an hour or more.

Time-Saving Benefits of the Instant Pot:

• Faster Cooking: Pressure cooking significantly reduces cooking time compared to oven roasting or stovetop simmering.
• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in one pot, minimizing cleanup and streamlining the cooking process.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once the Instant Pot is sealed and set, it requires minimal attention, freeing you up to do other things.

This quick preparation and cook time make Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a healthy and delicious meal on the table fast.

How to Serve: Delicious Serving Suggestions

Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables is a complete meal in itself, but there are many ways to enhance your serving experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Bowl: Serve it simply in a bowl as is. This is a comforting and satisfying way to enjoy the dish, allowing the flavors of the chicken and vegetables to shine.
• Over Rice or Quinoa: Spoon the chicken and vegetables over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. This adds extra carbohydrates and makes the meal even more filling. Quinoa is a particularly nutritious option, adding protein and fiber.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping into the flavorful broth. Sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta would be excellent choices.
• Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or chives for added freshness and visual appeal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of elegance.
• With a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy and tangy element that complements the savory flavors of the dish. Greek yogurt is a healthier option, adding protein and probiotics.
• Alongside a Green Salad: Serve with a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to add freshness and balance to the meal. A side salad provides extra vitamins and minerals and lightens up the overall meal.
• As a Base for Chicken Pot Pie Filling: Use the cooked chicken and vegetables as a base for a homemade chicken pot pie filling. Simply thicken the broth slightly and top with a pie crust or puff pastry and bake until golden brown.
• Shredded Chicken for Tacos or Wraps: Shred the cooked chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or wraps. Add your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and shredded cheese.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables is a versatile and delicious meal that is sure to please.

Additional Tips: Elevating Your Recipe

While this recipe is already fantastic as is, here are five additional tips to help you elevate your Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables and make it even better:

• Tip 1: Brown the Chicken for Extra Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, consider browning the chicken in the Instant Pot before adding the vegetables and broth. After sautéing the onions and garlic, remove them from the pot. Add a bit more olive oil and brown the chicken pieces on all sides in “Sauté” mode. Then, remove the chicken, add back the onions and garlic, and proceed with the recipe as directed. Browning the chicken adds a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Tip 2: Deglaze the Pot for Flavor Depth: After sautéing the onions, garlic, and (optionally) browning the chicken, deglaze the pot by pouring in the chicken broth and scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. These browned bits, called fond, are packed with flavor and will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Tip 3: Adjust Vegetable Cooking Time: If you prefer your vegetables softer or firmer, you can adjust the cooking time slightly. For softer vegetables, increase the pressure cooking time to 12 minutes. For firmer vegetables, reduce the cooking time to 8 minutes. Remember that natural pressure release also continues to cook the vegetables.
• Tip 4: Add a Bay Leaf for Aroma: For an extra layer of aromatic flavor, add a bay leaf to the Instant Pot along with the thyme and paprika. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Bay leaf adds a subtle, herbaceous, and slightly floral note to the dish.
• Tip 5: Thicken the Broth for a Gravy-Like Sauce: If you prefer a thicker, gravy-like sauce, you can easily thicken the broth after pressure cooking. After releasing the pressure and opening the lid, set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” mode. In a small bowl, whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or all-purpose flour with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the Instant Pot, stirring constantly, and cook until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This creates a richer and more decadent sauce.

These tips are simple additions that can further enhance the flavor and texture of your Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables, allowing you to customize the recipe to your personal preferences.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables to help you make the most of this recipe:

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?

A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. However, you will need to increase the pressure cooking time to approximately 15-20 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Make sure the chicken pieces are separated and not frozen in a solid block for even cooking. It’s generally recommended to thaw chicken for optimal texture and even cooking, but in a pinch, frozen chicken will work in the Instant Pot.

Q2: Can I use different vegetables?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily substitute or add other vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Good alternatives or additions include broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, peas, corn, celery, and mushrooms. Keep in mind that denser vegetables like butternut squash and sweet potatoes may require slightly longer cooking times, while softer vegetables like peas and corn should be added towards the end of cooking or after pressure cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, while this recipe is optimized for the Instant Pot, you can adapt it for stovetop or oven cooking.

• Stovetop: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken and brown it slightly. Add the chicken broth and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, follow the sautéing steps on the stovetop. Then, add the chicken broth and vegetables. Cover and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Both stovetop and oven methods will take longer than the Instant Pot but will still yield delicious results.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A: Leftover Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for longer storage, up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture of the potatoes may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?

A: Yes, you can easily double this recipe to feed a larger crowd or for meal prepping. Simply double all the ingredients and follow the instructions as written. The pressure cooking time should remain the same, but the Instant Pot may take slightly longer to come to pressure with a larger volume of food. Ensure that you do not overfill your Instant Pot; do not exceed the maximum fill line.

These FAQs should address some common questions and concerns you might have about making Instant Pot Homestyle Chicken and Vegetables. Enjoy making and savoring this easy and delicious meal!.

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