Name: Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing the onions and garlic); 1 small onion, diced (adds a sweet and aromatic base); 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (brings in a robust flavor); 1 cup chicken stock or pineapple juice (provides moisture and enhances flavor); 1 cup salsa verde (the star of the dish); 1 tablespoon honey (adds a touch of sweetness); 2 pounds chicken breasts (the main protein component); 1 teaspoon salt (enhances all flavors); 1 lime juiced ((optional) adds a fresh citrus zing)

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If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner recipe, look no further than this Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a vibrant and zesty salsa verde, creating a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you’ll have a meal on the table in no time. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken? It’s packed with flavor, incredibly easy to prepare, and can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you serve it over rice, in tacos, or on a salad, the possibilities are endless. Plus, the Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, ensuring that the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. The combination of salsa verde and honey adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.

What Goes Into Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the onions and garlic.
1 small onion, diced – adds a sweet and aromatic base to the dish.
1 tablespoon garlic, minced – brings in a robust flavor.
1 cup chicken stock or pineapple juice – provides moisture and enhances the flavor.
1 cup salsa verde – the star of the dish, imparting a fresh and tangy taste.
1 tablespoon honey – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
2 pounds chicken breasts – the main protein component, ensuring a filling meal.
1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors.
1 lime, juiced (optional) – adds a fresh citrus zing if desired.

Tools of the Trade

Before we jump into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Instant Pot – the star of the show that will make this recipe quick and easy.
Cutting board – for chopping your onions and garlic.
Knife – a good chef’s knife will make prep work a breeze.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure you get the right amounts of each ingredient.
Spoon or spatula – for mixing and serving.

Mastering Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken: How-To

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering meal:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Add the Liquids

Pour in the chicken stock or pineapple juice, stirring to deglaze the pot and scrape any bits off the bottom. This step is essential to prevent the burn notice on your Instant Pot.

Step 3: Add the Salsa Verde and Honey

Next, stir in the salsa verde and honey, mixing well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Sprinkle the salt over the top.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 6: Shred and Serve

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix it well with the sauce. If you like, squeeze the juice of a lime over the top for added brightness.

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to save a few bucks or use what you already have at home, consider these swaps:

Instead of chicken breasts, you can use thighs for a more flavorful option.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
Use your favorite brand of salsa verde or make your own if you prefer a homemade touch.
If you don’t have honey, agave syrup or maple syrup works great as a substitute.

Chef’s Rationale

This Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with vibrant flavors. The salsa verde not only adds moisture but also infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that can only be achieved by slow cooking. The use of honey balances the acidity of the salsa and the saltiness of the chicken stock, creating a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and wholesome.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you’re looking to make this meal ahead of time, it freezes beautifully! Here are a few tips:

Cool the shredded chicken mixture completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer bag or container.
Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes. Make sure to add a bit more liquid to ensure it cooks through.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, tortillas, or even over a fresh salad. You can also make tacos or burrito bowls with it!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! For a slow cooker version, combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and shreddable.

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If you loved this Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken recipe, don’t forget to save it for later! Share it with your friends and family on social media so they can enjoy it too. Cooking is always more fun when you share delicious food!

With its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation, Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. Enjoy the deliciousness!