Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with an irresistibly creamy and cheesy dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Look no further than this Instant Pot Cheese Chicken! In just 25 minutes, you can transform simple chicken breasts into a mouthwatering meal that’s bursting with flavor and comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this recipe combines tender chicken with gooey cheddar cheese, creating a dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. Dive into our recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up this cheesy delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the Instant Pot, creating a liquid base to prevent burning and help create steam.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are not stacked on top of each other for even cooking.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing position, and select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting on high pressure.
- Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Thicker breasts will require closer to 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully moving the valve to the venting position.
- Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer - it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot chicken breasts, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese.
- Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to fully melt and the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Season Well: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance the flavor.
- Choose the Right Chicken: For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the Instant Pot. If you have more than four, consider cooking them in batches to maintain optimal cooking conditions.
- Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Garnish for Presentation: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 299kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 39g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
