Instant Pot Chicken Stew

This Instant Pot Chicken Stew is a delightful dish that will warm your heart and fill your home with irresistible aromas. Imagine a comforting bowl filled with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all simmered to perfection in a flash. The Instant Pot makes it all possible, turning what could be hours of cooking into a quick and easy meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual family dinner, this stew checks all the boxes for comfort food. You can quickly toss everything in, press a button, and in no time, you’ll be savoring a delicious, homemade stew. Plus, it’s the perfect recipe for busy nights, busy families, or anyone who just loves a good home-cooked meal without the hassle. Let’s explore why this recipe works and how you can whip it up in your own kitchen!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Instant Pot Chicken Stew leverages the pressure-cooking capabilities of the Instant Pot to infuse flavors rapidly, transforming simple ingredients into a hearty meal in a fraction of the time. The combination of chicken, vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmers together, making this dish the perfect comfort food that will warm your soul.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Stew

This recipe is not just easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile and customizable to suit your palate. Whether you’re a busy parent or a cooking novice, the “dump and go” style means minimal prep and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 2-1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 2 potatoes, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Add The Ingredients

Start by pouring the chicken broth into the Inner Liner Pot of the Instant Pot. Next, add the cubed chicken and follow with the chopped onion, celery, carrots, cubed potatoes, minced garlic, herbs, and seasonings. Layer them well for an even distribution of flavors.

Press Cook

Press the PRESSURE COOK button (or MANUAL button depending on your model), select HIGH PRESSURE, and adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes using the + or – buttons. This short cooking time is just right for getting those flavors melded without losing moisture.

Pressure Release

Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot. Set the Pressure Release Valve to the SEALING position. It takes approximately 10-20 minutes for the pot to build pressure before cooking starts. Once the time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully moving the valve to the VENTING position for a quick release. This step keeps the stew tender and juicy.

Thicken Soup

After the pressure has fully released and the pin drops, remove the lid. Press CANCEL and then select the SAUTE function, adjusting to the MORE setting so the stew continues to heat. To thicken the stew, mix 2 tablespoons of water with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this cornstarch slurry into the stew until it thickens, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. This adds a lovely finish and makes it visually appealing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Instant Pot Chicken Stew with warm crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice for a fulfilling meal. A light side salad can also complement the stew perfectly, balancing flavors and textures nicely.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for unique flavor profiles.
• For extra depth, consider sautéing the onion and garlic before adding other ingredients.

These tips can help elevate your stew and suit your taste preferences.

Variations

Try adding different vegetables such as green beans or corn for a twist. Alternatively, use bone-in chicken for enhanced flavor, and cook slightly longer if needed. Adjusting ingredients can also make the stew your own.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if necessary to regain desired consistency. This dish loves to be enjoyed more than once!

Pairing Ideas

Pair this hearty stew with a robust red wine, or serve it alongside a crisp white for a lighter touch. Consider serving it with rich, buttery cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience. A perfect match for cozy evenings!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time by 5 minutes.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this stew?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with beans or lentils and vegetable broth for a hearty vegetarian option.

3. How can I make it spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to increase the heat.

4. Can this stew be prepared in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator.

5. What can I do if the stew is too thick?
If the stew becomes too thick, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water until your desired consistency is achieved.

This Instant Pot Chicken Stew is not just a meal; it’s a cozy gathering of flavors that embraces you with warmth and comfort. Perfect for any season, it’s a versatile dish that invites creativity and makes weeknight dinners a delightful experience. With just a few ingredients and your Instant Pot, you can create something truly special that brings people together around the dinner table. Enjoy!

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