Lemon Chicken Instant Pot: Easy Recipe & Cooking Tips

Lemon Chicken Instant Pot: Craving a burst of sunshine on your plate, even on a busy weeknight? Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with bright, zesty lemon flavor, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time. That’s the magic of this recipe! Forget slaving over a hot stove; with your Instant Pot, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in under an hour.

While the exact origins of lemon chicken are debated, its popularity spans continents. Many cultures have their own variations, often featuring a crispy, saucy chicken dish. This Instant Pot version simplifies the process, bringing the vibrant flavors of lemon chicken to your table with minimal effort. It’s a modern twist on a classic favorite, perfect for today’s fast-paced lifestyles.

What makes lemon chicken instant pot so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of tangy and savory, with a hint of sweetness that tantalizes the taste buds. The Instant Pot ensures the chicken remains incredibly moist and tender, while the lemon sauce creates a luscious glaze that coats every bite. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning fewer dishes to wash! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience the easiest and most delicious lemon chicken you’ve ever had!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated (fresh is best!)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Cooked rice, for serving
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help create a nice coating on the chicken, giving it a lovely texture and helping the sauce cling to it. Make sure the flour is evenly distributed.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the flour mixture. Toss the chicken until it’s completely coated in the flour. This step is crucial for achieving that slightly thickened sauce we’re aiming for. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there and make sure every piece is covered!

Searing the Chicken:

1. Now, turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. This will allow us to sear the chicken, adding depth of flavor to the final dish. Let the Instant Pot heat up for a minute or two.
2. Add the olive oil to the Instant Pot. Once the oil is hot (it should shimmer), add the floured chicken in a single layer. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
3. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it’s lightly browned. We’re not cooking it all the way through at this point, just giving it some color and flavor. Remove the browned chicken from the Instant Pot and set it aside.

Making the Lemon Sauce:

1. With the chicken set aside, it’s time to create our delicious lemon sauce. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits, also known as fond, are packed with flavor and will add richness to the sauce. This process is called deglazing.
2. Add the lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the Instant Pot. Stir everything together well to combine all the ingredients. The aroma at this point should be amazing!
3. Return the seared chicken to the Instant Pot, nestling it into the lemon sauce. Make sure the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid.

Pressure Cooking:

1. Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position.
2. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 5 minutes. The Instant Pot will now come to pressure, which may take a few minutes.
3. Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. This allows the chicken to finish cooking gently and helps prevent it from drying out. After 10 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure manually by moving the pressure release valve to the “Venting” position. Be careful of the steam!
4. Once all the pressure is released, carefully open the Instant Pot lid.

Thickening the Sauce:

1. Now, let’s thicken that sauce to perfection. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. This is your cornstarch slurry.
2. Turn the Instant Pot back on to the “Sauté” function.
3. Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the Instant Pot, stirring constantly. The sauce will begin to thicken as it heats up.
4. Continue to cook and stir the sauce for 1-2 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become too thick.
5. Once the sauce is thickened, turn off the “Sauté” function.

Serving:

1. Serve the Lemon Chicken immediately over cooked rice. The rice will soak up all that delicious sauce!
2. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Enjoy your homemade Lemon Chicken! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. You can also adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the level of spiciness. Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the Instant Pot when searing the chicken. This will prevent the chicken from browning properly. Work in batches if necessary.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice can sometimes have a slightly artificial taste.
• Adjust the amount of honey to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey.
• For a thicker sauce, use more cornstarch. Start with a small amount and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency.
• If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can also make this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations:

• Add vegetables: Broccoli florets, bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), snap peas, or carrots can be added to the Instant Pot along with the chicken for a more complete meal.
• Make it spicier: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Use different protein: This recipe can also be made with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add a touch of cream: Stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Storage:

• Leftovers: Store leftover Lemon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the Lemon Chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the Lemon Chicken for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion:

This Lemon Chicken Instant Pot recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The bright, zesty lemon sauce perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly satisfying. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal.

Why is it a must-try? Because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The Instant Pot works its magic, infusing the chicken with that vibrant lemon essence in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Seriously, who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder?

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Over Rice or Pasta: Serve this lemon chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or your favorite pasta. The sauce is perfect for soaking into every grain or strand. For a healthier option, try brown rice or quinoa.
* With Roasted Vegetables: Roast some broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers alongside the chicken for a complete and balanced meal. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon sauce.
* In a Salad: Shred the cooked chicken and toss it into a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing and healthy lunch or light dinner option.
* Lemon Herb Variation: Add a tablespoon of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the Instant Pot for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, sprinkled on top before serving, also elevate the dish.
* Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a drizzle of sriracha before serving.
* Creamy Lemon Chicken: For a richer, more decadent version, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of the cooking time. This will create a creamy, luscious sauce that’s simply irresistible.
* Lemon Chicken with Potatoes: Add cubed potatoes to the Instant Pot along with the chicken for a hearty and filling meal. The potatoes will soak up all the delicious lemon flavor.

I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible flavor payoff. It’s a testament to how easy it can be to create a truly memorable meal with just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? Did you make any tweaks to the recipe? What did your family and friends think?

Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this Lemon Chicken Instant Pot recipe your own. Happy cooking!