Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe

I absolutely love how quick and flavorful this Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe turns out—it’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together in no time. When I first tried it, I was amazed at how tender and juicy the chicken stayed, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot and the simple spiced rub. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty protein without spending hours in the kitchen.

You’ll find that this recipe is not only convenient but incredibly versatile, making it a kitchen staple for me. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, throwing together dinner on the fly, or impressing friends with minimal effort, this Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe never disappoints. Plus, the combination of smoked paprika and garlic powder gives the chicken a subtle smoky warmth that’s just irresistible.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a role in building flavor or helping your chicken stay juicy and tender. I always recommend fresh spices for the best aroma and taste, and using skinless, boneless chicken breasts makes cooking and slicing a breeze.

• Chicken breasts: Skinless and boneless for quick, even cooking and easy slicing afterward.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that really elevates the flavor without overpowering.
• Garlic powder: A must-have for that savory depth that fresh garlic can’t always deliver in pressure cooking.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors; don’t skip it!
• Black pepper: Gives the dish a little bite and rounds out the spices.
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken to get that nice golden crust before pressure cooking.
• Chicken broth: Creates steam and infuses subtle savory notes while the meat cooks.

Variations

I love tweaking this Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe depending on what mood I’m in or what ingredients I have on hand. It’s fun to make it your own without losing the ease and magic of pressure cooking.

• Add fresh herbs: Sprinkling oregano, thyme, or rosemary before cooking really brightens the dish—I often throw in a few sprigs right on top before sealing the lid.
• Spicy kick: If you like heat, adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne transforms this into a cozy spicy treat that your family will crave.
• Marinade magic: Sometimes, I marinate the chicken in a simple combo of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic overnight for an extra flavor boost, then go ahead with the spice rub before cooking.

How to Make Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Spice the Chicken

First things first: pat your chicken breasts dry really well with paper towels to help that spice rub stick and get a better sear. In a small bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then rub the mixture evenly all over each chicken breast. This step really makes a difference in flavor, so be generous and get every nook and cranny covered.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken in the Instant Pot

Switch your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and pour in the olive oil. Once it’s hot and shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pot. Sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown—this creates a tasty crust and locks in juices. When they’re nicely browned, remove the chicken and set aside. This step adds a lovely depth to your chicken that you won’t get if you skip it.

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the metal trivet inside. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on the trivet, then seal the lid and set the valve to “sealing.” Choose the high-pressure setting and set the timer for 5 minutes if you have around 2 pounds of chicken. After it beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes—this step keeps your chicken tender—and then quickly release any remaining pressure. This balance between pressure and rest is what makes this Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe work so well for juicy results.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Carefully take the chicken out and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets the juices redistribute so when you cut into it, each bite is juicy and flavorful. Trust me, skipping this step makes a difference!

How to Serve Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe

Garnishes

I usually finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice adds a beautiful brightness that cuts through the richness. I also love topping with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tahini sauce to add creaminess and make the dish a little more special.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides are fluffy rice or quinoa, and roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots. This chicken also goes great with a simple green salad or creamy mashed potatoes. When I’m feeling South-of-the-border vibes, I serve it with black beans and corn salsa—comfort food at its best!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I slice the chicken to create a beautiful fan shape and drizzle it with a homemade chimichurri or basil pesto. It’s a simple trick that elevates the plate and impresses guests. Another time, I shredded the chicken and made it into tacos with vibrant slaws and creamy avocado—always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I like to slice the chicken before refrigerating—makes it easier to grab for salads or wraps the next day. Plus, leftovers reheat evenly without drying out when sliced thinly.

Freezing

I usually wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Another time-saving trick: shred the chicken first, then freeze in portioned containers or bags—makes reheating for future meals a breeze.

Reheating

To reheat, pop sliced chicken in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist, or warm gently in the oven at 300°F until heated through. I avoid overheating—dry chicken is the enemy here—so I always start with shorter reheating times and add more if needed.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Spiced Chicken Breast Recipe has become my go-to weeknight dinner and a crowd-pleaser whenever I make it. I love how it delivers juicy, flavorful chicken without taxing my time or energy. If you’re looking for an easy, adaptable method that consistently produces great results, I genuinely think you’ll enjoy making this as much as I do—give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen!

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