Quick & Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli

If you’re looking for a healthy, quick, and downright delicious weeknight dinner, this Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender chicken breast with crisp broccoli florets in a flavorful sauce, it’s a simple meal that packs a protein punch and loads of veggies, all cooked effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Whether you’re short on time or just want a fuss-free dish, this recipe saves time without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Meal Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when you want a nutritious meal fast.
• Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, offering a wholesome dinner option.
• One-Pot Convenience: Minimal cleanup thanks to cooking everything in your Instant Pot.
• Flavorful but Simple: Delicious savory sauce uses common pantry staples with no complicated ingredients.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easy to adjust based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient contributes essential flavors, textures, and vibrant colors that come together effortlessly. From tender chicken to fresh broccoli and a savory sauce made from pantry favorites, you’ll love how easy and satisfying this meal is.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and tender bites.
• Broccoli florets: Adds a bright green color and nutritious crunch.
• Soy sauce: Brings a salty, umami depth that ties the dish together.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic adds aromatic warmth and flavor.
• Chicken broth: Prevents sticking and infuses the chicken with moisture.
• Honey or brown sugar: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the soy sauce.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce for that perfect glossy finish.
• Sesame oil: Gives a subtle nutty aroma that complements the overall flavor.
• Optional red pepper flakes: For a little kick if you like slight heat.

Variations for Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli

One of the best parts about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap out ingredients or tweak flavors to suit your dietary preferences or whatever you have in your fridge. Feel free to experiment and create your perfect spin on this classic!

• Swap the chicken: Use thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat with more flavor.
• Different veggies: Add snap peas, bell peppers, or baby corn for extra variety and color.
• Make it low sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to reduce salt without losing flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Choose tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Add nuts: Toss in toasted cashews or sliced almonds for crunch and texture.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Sauce

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, minced garlic, honey, and a drizzle of sesame oil to create that rich, flavorful base for the dish.

Step 2: Sauté for Extra Flavor

Using the Instant Pot’s sauté function, add a splash of sesame oil and quickly sear the chicken breasts on each side for 2-3 minutes. This step locks in juices and adds delicious caramelized notes.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Pour the sauce mixture over the seared chicken. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks through perfectly while soaking up those savory tastes.

Step 4: Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking

After quick releasing the pressure, open the lid and add fresh broccoli florets right on top of the chicken. Seal the lid again and cook for an additional 0-2 minutes on high pressure, depending on how crisp or tender you like your broccoli.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Carefully remove the chicken and broccoli. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir in a simple cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the sauce into a shiny glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken and broccoli.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken and broccoli, garnish as you like, and serve immediately for a hot, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and crisp broccoli make a big difference to flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook broccoli: Add it last to keep it bright green and slightly crunchy.
• Slice chicken evenly: Ensuring the pieces are similar thickness helps them cook uniformly.
• Customize sauce sweetness: Adjust honey or sugar to balance salty soy sauce to your liking.
• Make it saucier: Double the sauce ingredients if you prefer a wetter dish or serving over rice.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate the dish beautifully. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or even a drizzle of sriracha for a pop of heat.

Side Dishes

This hearty recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even cooked quinoa to boost protein even more.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the chicken and broccoli in colorful bowls topped with crunchy nuts for extra texture, or layer it over leafy greens for a warm salad twist. For a fun family style meal, present it in a large serving dish with extra sauce on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will stay tender and the broccoli maintains good texture when reheated gently.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! Separate into meal-sized portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain moisture when warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli in this recipe?

Yes, but add frozen broccoli after cooking the chicken and use the sauté function to warm it through; cooking frozen broccoli under pressure can make it mushy.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can adapt this recipe using a stovetop pan or slow cooker, but cooking times and methods will vary significantly.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! You can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and cut chicken into smaller pieces to make it easier for kids to enjoy.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as written, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products.

How do I make the sauce thicker without cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or reduce the sauce by simmering on sauté mode until it thickens to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Chicken & Broccoli recipe truly hits all the marks for a healthy, speedy, and tasty dinner that anyone can make on a busy weeknight. Give it a try and you might just find your new go-to meal that balances wholesome ingredients with bold flavors and ease of preparation. Happy cooking!

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