Instant Pot Chicken Stew: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Instant Pot Chicken Stew is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a hearty stew to nourish the soul. This recipe not only showcases the tender, juicy chicken but also incorporates a medley of vegetables that create a symphony of flavors in every bite. The Instant Pot makes this dish incredibly convenient, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Historically, stews have been a staple in many cultures, often passed down through generations as a way to bring families together. People love Instant Pot Chicken Stew for its rich taste and creamy texture, which is achieved effortlessly in the Instant Pot. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or preparing a meal for a gathering, this stew is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. I like to have everything prepped and ready to go before I start cooking. 2. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes for easy eating later on. 3. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and chop the celery. I find that using a sharp knife makes this process much easier and quicker. 4. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. I usually leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer. 5. Measure out the chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Having everything measured out in advance helps me stay organized.

Cooking Process

6. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up for about a minute. 7. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. 8. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. The aroma will be fantastic at this point! 9. Now, add the chicken pieces to the pot. Season them with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned on all sides. This step adds a depth of flavor to the stew. 10. After the chicken is browned, add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. 11. Pour in the chicken broth, and add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Give it a good stir to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed. 12. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure. 13. While the stew is cooking, you can clean up your prep area. I like to take this time to relax a bit and get excited about the delicious meal that’s on its way! 14. Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. 15. Open the lid and give the stew a good stir. At this point, you can add the frozen peas. They only need a few minutes to heat through.

Thickening the Stew (Optional)

16. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can use cornstarch. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. 17. Turn the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function and bring the stew to a gentle simmer. 18. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the stew while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the stew. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. 19. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. I always find that a little extra seasoning can elevate the flavors even more.

Assembling and Serving

20. Once the stew is ready, it’s time to serve! I like to ladle the stew into bowls and garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness. 21. Serve the chicken stew hot, and enjoy it with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. 22. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop

Conclusion:

In summary, this Instant Pot Chicken Stew is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to whip up a comforting, hearty meal in no time. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that not only warms the soul but also satisfies the taste buds. Plus, the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade stew without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, I love pairing this stew with a crusty piece of bread or a side of fluffy rice to soak up all that flavorful broth. You can also get creative with variations—try adding your favorite root vegetables, or even a splash of white wine for an extra depth of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider tossing in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving for a burst of freshness. I encourage you to give this Instant Pot Chicken Stew a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any special ingredients or make any tweaks? Share your thoughts and photos with me, and let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy stewing!

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