Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breasts + Video
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Instant Pot frozen chicken breasts can be used in so many different ways! Make a batch today for delicious flavor with a few pantry staples.
Sometimes life gets so busy that you forget to pull the meat out of the freezer to thaw. Don’t worry! With a pressure cooker, you can still have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
If you did manage to thaw the poultry first, you can make a full meal in one pot by including rice and veggies or mushrooms with sauce.
Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breasts – Helpful Tips
- Are the pieces stuck together? Simply place them in a bowl of cool water until they separate or can be pulled apart without tearing.
- Don’t make too much at once. I recommend only putting a maximum of four pounds in at one time to ensure even cooking. Otherwise, there is a lot of overlapping which can leave cold or undercooked areas in the meat.
- Tip for thawed poultry: You can still use this recipe, just decrease the cooking time. Two pounds of raw chicken would only need about 5 minutes.
- Let it rest. Always let cooked meat sit for several minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute for tender, juicy bites.
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Cooking Frozen Chicken In An Instant Pot
Always start with about 1 cup of liquid before adding the poultry, since the liquid is needed to build pressure.
Close the lid and make sure the vent is sealed before setting the timer.
Since there are several different versions of the Instant Pot, you can use any of the following settings for this recipe: MANUAL, POULTRY, or PRESSURE COOK.
Serving Suggestions
The IP will need to come to pressure before the timer starts counting down. Once it’s done, let it sit for another 5 minutes for a natural pressure release.
Serving Suggestions
Then, carefully open the vent to release the remaining pressure. It’s safe to open the lid as soon as the pin next to the vent drops.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Suggestions
There are plenty of ways to turn this simple recipe into a variety of meals. You could even get creative with the seasoning blend so the flavors match whatever you are in the mood for.
- Top with salsa, avocado, sour cream, and green onions.
- Slice and serve over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad.
- Use it in this Monterey Skillet – start with step 7, top with barbecue sauce, and go from there.
- Plate with rice and a side of asparagus.
- Make a wrap with greens, tomatoes, cheese, and ranch dressing
It’s great for meal prep too! Just divide the meat into separate containers and pair it with your favorite vegetables. Then, grab one out of the refrigerator for a quick and easy lunch.
FAQ – Common Recipe Questions
How long does pressure cooked chicken last in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
Is it safe to cook chicken from frozen?
According to the USDA, it is considered safe. However, it will take longer to reach a safe temperature than if the meat was thawed.
Slow cooking is the exception to this since a crockpot will not get the poultry to a safe temperature fast enough, creating the potential for bacteria to flourish.
Enjoy!
With love from our simple kitchen to yours.
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RECIPE VIDEO
Watch the video below to see how easy it is to make this recipe!
Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breast + Video
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup chicken stock, Kitchen Basic is the brand I used
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, squeezed fresh from 1 lime
- 4 frozen boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 1.5-2 pounds
- 1 tablespoon seasoning blend
- 2 Tablespoons salted butter, sliced into 4 pieces
Garnish
- fresh chopped cilantro or flat leaf parsley
- lime wedges
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place chicken stock and lime juice in the instant pot.
- Season frozen chicken breasts with seasoning on both sides. Place chicken breasts in a single layer, in the instant pot with the chicken stock mixture. Top each chicken breast with a slice of butter.
- Cover the Instant Pot with the lid and lock into place. (Make sure the vent is set to “sealing”) Set to POULTRY or MANUAL for 10-15 minutes (depending on size of breasts). Natural release for at least 5 minutes. Then carefully, using a hot pad, quick release any remaining pressure before opening.
- After chicken is cooked, remove chicken from the Instant Pot and place on a plate to rest for 5 minutes. Slice chicken and transfer to a serving plate. Top with freshly chopped cilantro or flat leaf parsley and serve with lime wedges. Add salt and pepper to taste, if you like.
Video
Donna’s Notes
Nutrition
All nutritional information is based on third party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe’s nutritional value will vary depending on the ingredients used, measuring methods, and portion sizes.
Originally published February 2021
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Hi and thank you for this recipe. I was wondering about the spice blend you use the recipe wasn't attached, so I was wondering just what you used. Thank you Teresa
spice blend? there isn't a link? Thank you
What is the seasoning blend. I can't get anything, What are the spices used? Thanks..
Would love to try this, but can't seem to get to the seasonings recipe
https://www.theslowroasteditalian.com/2011/09/taco-seasoning.html?m=1
I do meal prep for my husband and this is the quickest and easiest way to make a lot of chicken at one time! Perfect recipe!