We’ve all been there – it’s 5 PM, and the chicken is still a block of ice in the freezer. Don’t panic and order takeout! This foolproof Instant Pot method is your secret weapon for turning frozen chicken breasts into a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked meal in minutes. It’s a weeknight dinner lifesaver you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients
• 4 frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6-8 oz / 170-225g each
• 1 cup / 240 ml water
• 1 cup / 240 ml chicken broth
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Directions
2. Pour the water and chicken broth into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Place the frozen chicken breasts directly into the liquid. Season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Secure the lid, ensuring the steam release valve is set to the ‘Sealing’ position.
4. Select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ button and set the timer for 25 minutes on high pressure.
5. Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release by moving the steam release valve to the ‘Venting’ position.
6. Use tongs to remove the chicken breasts. Let them rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
• Per Serving: Calories 270 | Total Fats 11g | Net Carbs 6g | Protein 28g | Fiber 0g
Pro Tips
• For best results, ensure the chicken breasts are separated and not frozen together in a large block. If they are stuck together, you may need to add 5-7 minutes to the cook time.
• Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F or 74°C.
• Infuse more flavor by adding aromatics like a few cloves of smashed garlic, a halved onion, or your favorite dried herbs to the cooking liquid.
FAQ
Q: Can I really cook chicken directly from frozen
A: Yes, absolutely! This Instant Pot method is specifically designed to safely and effectively cook chicken breasts straight from the freezer, making it a perfect solution for last-minute dinners.
Q: What if my chicken breasts are frozen together in a block
A: For best results, try to separate the chicken breasts before cooking. If they are frozen in a solid block, you should increase the pressure cooking time by 5-7 minutes to ensure they cook through evenly.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked
A: The most reliable way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should register 165°F or 74°C.
Q: Can I use something other than water and chicken broth
A: Certainly. While water and broth are a great base, you can infuse more flavor by using only chicken broth or by adding aromatics like smashed garlic, onion, or your favorite dried herbs to the liquid before cooking.
