Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner with the most incredible Instant Pot Ranch Chicken that will have your family begging for seconds! In just 20 minutes, you can create a juicy, flavor-packed meal that's so simple, even beginner cooks will look like culinary pros. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken that practically melts in your mouth, infused with tangy ranch goodness and cooked to absolute perfection in your Instant Pot.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil to the inner pot and allow it to heat up for about 1-2 minutes.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot Instant Pot. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a light golden-brown crust forms, which helps lock in moisture and flavor.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring complete coverage.
- Pour the chicken broth around the chicken, being careful not to wash off the seasoning.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to "Sealing" position, and select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" function. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
- Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: If desired, spoon some of the remaining cooking liquid over the chicken for extra moisture and flavor.
Tips
- • Always pat your chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure maximum flavor absorption and better searing. • Don't skip the searing step - it locks in moisture and creates a delicious golden crust that adds incredible depth of flavor. • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). • For extra moisture, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute. • If your chicken breasts are different sizes, adjust cooking time accordingly - thicker pieces might need an extra minute of cooking. • For a lighter version, you can use low-sodium chicken broth and a reduced-sodium ranch seasoning mix. • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and are perfect for quick lunch meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 95mg
