If you're looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Instant Pot Pesto Chicken! In just 25 minutes, you can transform simple chicken breasts into a mouthwatering dish infused with the vibrant flavors of Italian basil pesto. Imagine tender, juicy chicken smothered in a rich, aromatic sauce that practically sings with freshness. Whether you're a busy parent or a culinary novice, this recipe is your ticket to a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Dive into the world of easy cooking and discover how this delightful dish can elevate your weeknight dinners!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup basil pesto
- 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 generously with salt and pepper.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and allow it to heat up for 1-2 minutes until shimmering.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the Instant Pot and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden brown color. This step helps lock in flavor and creates a nice exterior.
- Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot, ensuring it surrounds the chicken breasts but does not completely cover them.
- Spoon the basil pesto evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure they are well-coated with the sauce.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to "Sealing" position, and select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting. 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 of 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) to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. The resting period helps retain moisture.
- Optional: Spoon additional pesto sauce from the pot over the chicken before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, consider marinating the chicken breasts in pesto for a few hours or overnight. This enhances the flavor even more!
- Sear for Success: Don’t skip the searing step! It locks in the juices and adds a beautiful golden crust that enhances the overall taste.
- Adjust Cooking Time: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, increase the pressure cooking time by a couple of minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add Veggies: For a complete meal, consider adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. It adds a touch of elegance and extra flavor!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, slice the chicken and toss it into salads or pasta dishes for a quick lunch the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 105mg
