In this article, I will be sharing a delightful recipe for Instant Pot Pesto Chicken. As a passionate food enthusiast, my goal is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the dish. I will include detailed information about the ingredients, nutritional values, as well as the cooking time required. So, if you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your dinner table, stay tuned for this delectable Instant Pot Pesto Chicken recipe.

Delicious Instant Pot Pesto Chicken Recipe

I am excited to share with you a mouthwatering recipe for Instant Pot Pesto Chicken. This dish is packed with flavor and is incredibly easy to make using your trusty Instant Pot. With tender chicken breasts, aromatic pesto sauce, and a savory chicken broth, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for creating this delectable dish.

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Ingredients

To make Instant Pot Pesto Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

Chicken breasts

For this recipe, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They provide a lean and healthy protein base for the dish. Be sure to choose fresh and high-quality chicken breasts for the best results.

Pesto sauce

Pesto sauce is the star ingredient of this recipe. Its vibrant green color and bold flavors add a delicious twist to the chicken. You can either make your own pesto sauce or use a store-bought version. If you have the time, I highly recommend making homemade pesto for a truly authentic taste.

Chicken broth

Chicken broth is used to add depth and moisture to the Instant Pot Pesto Chicken. It enhances the flavors of the dish and keeps the chicken tender and juicy throughout the cooking process.

Garlic cloves

Garlic cloves bring a lovely pungent flavor to the recipe. They complement the other ingredients and infuse the chicken with a delightful aroma. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic according to your personal taste preferences.

Salt

Salt is an essential seasoning that helps to bring out the flavors in the dish. It is important to use salt in moderation and taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Ground black pepper

Ground black pepper provides a subtle heat and adds depth to the dish. Just like salt, it is best to season to taste and adjust the amount according to your liking.

Olive oil

Olive oil is used for sautéing the chicken and adds a rich and smooth taste to the dish. It also helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the Instant Pot.

Parmesan cheese

Parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top of the cooked chicken to enhance the flavors and add a creamy texture. It is a classic pairing with pesto sauce and completes the dish perfectly.

Fresh basil leaves

Fresh basil leaves are the perfect finishing touch for this Instant Pot Pesto Chicken. They add a vibrant green color and a fragrant aroma. Chopped or torn basil leaves can be sprinkled on top of the dish just before serving.

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating this flavorful Instant Pot Pesto Chicken.

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This step helps to remove any impurities and ensures that the chicken is clean before cooking.

Step 2: Seasoning the chicken

Next, season the chicken breasts with salt and ground black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly on all sides of the chicken to ensure a well-balanced flavor.

Step 3: Sautéing the chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and add olive oil to the pot. Once the oil is heated, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pot and sear them on both sides until they are golden brown. Sautéing the chicken adds a delicious crust and locks in the juices, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken.

Step 4: Adding the pesto sauce and chicken broth

Once the chicken is nicely seared, remove it from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Add the garlic cloves, pesto sauce, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine the flavors and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This step ensures that none of the delicious flavors are left behind.

Step 5: Cooking the chicken under pressure

Return the seared chicken breasts to the Instant Pot and secure the lid. Set the Instant Pot to the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode, and adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the chicken breasts. Generally, cooking the chicken under pressure for 8-10 minutes should do the trick. Keep in mind that thicker pieces will require a longer cooking time.

Step 6: Adding Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves

Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure using the quick-release method. Open the Instant Pot and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cooked chicken breasts. The heat of the chicken will melt the cheese, creating a creamy and flavorful topping. Finish the dish by garnishing it with fresh basil leaves for added freshness and aroma.

Step 7: Serving the delicious Instant Pot pesto chicken

Serve the Instant Pot Pesto Chicken hot on a platter or individual plates. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the tender and flavorful chicken, infused with the vibrant flavors of pesto sauce and a touch of cheese.

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Nutrition Information

The nutritional information for Instant Pot Pesto Chicken may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. However, as a general guide, a serving of this dish provides approximately:

• Calories:
• Total Fat:
• Saturated Fat:
• Cholesterol:
• Sodium:
• Total Carbohydrate:
• Dietary Fiber:
• Sugars:
• Protein:

Preparation Time

The preparation time for Instant Pot Pesto Chicken is approximately 10 minutes. This includes rinsing and seasoning the chicken, as well as gathering and measuring the ingredients.

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Cooking Time

The cooking time for Instant Pot Pesto Chicken will vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. On average, it takes about 8-10 minutes to cook the chicken under pressure in the Instant Pot.

Total Time

The total time for making Instant Pot Pesto Chicken, including the preparation and cooking time, is approximately 25-30 minutes.

Servings

This recipe makes approximately servings, depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the desired portion size.

Tips and Variations

To enhance the flavor and nutritional value of Instant Pot Pesto Chicken, consider the following tips and variations:

Adding vegetables

To make this dish a complete meal, you can add your favorite vegetables to the Instant Pot along with the chicken. Bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the pesto sauce and chicken. Simply chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot before cooking.

Using homemade pesto

While store-bought pesto sauce works perfectly fine for this recipe, nothing beats the freshness and flavor of homemade pesto. If you have the time and ingredients, I recommend making your own pesto sauce using fresh basil leaves, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. You can find numerous pesto sauce recipes online to suit your taste preferences.

Serving suggestions

Instant Pot Pesto Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a refreshing salad for a complete and balanced meal. You can also serve it over cooked pasta or rice for a more substantial option.

Freezing leftovers

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the freezer for future meals. Simply reheat the frozen chicken in the microwave or oven until heated through. Remember to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Pesto Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, aromatic pesto sauce, and a savory chicken broth. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be prepared with minimal effort using your trusty Instant Pot. With the addition of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, this dish becomes a flavorful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, Instant Pot Pesto Chicken is sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors it has to offer.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about Instant Pot Pesto Chicken:

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly, as chicken thighs tend to be thicker and may require a few extra minutes under pressure.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it is possible to use frozen chicken for this recipe, it is recommended to thaw the chicken breasts before cooking. Thawing the chicken allows for more even cooking and better absorption of the flavors.

How long can I store the leftovers in the refrigerator?

Leftover Instant Pot Pesto Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the chicken thoroughly before refrigerating to maintain its freshness and quality.

Can I use store-bought pesto sauce?

Yes, store-bought pesto sauce can be used in this recipe. It provides convenience and saves time in the kitchen. However, if you have the opportunity, making homemade pesto sauce will elevate the flavors of the dish to a whole new level.

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