Instant Pot chicken tenders Recipe are a delicious and convenient option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and tender chicken dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot, a multi-functional electric pressure cooker, makes cooking quick and easy, allowing you to achieve mouthwatering results in a fraction of the time. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of preparing succulent chicken tenders using your Instant Pot. Let’s dive in!
1. Introduction
If you’re not familiar with the Instant Pot, it’s a versatile kitchen appliance that combines the functions of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more. It’s a game-changer for busy individuals who want to enjoy homemade meals without sacrificing hours of their time. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make tender and flavorful chicken tenders using the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking feature.
2. Benefits of Using an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot offers several benefits when it comes to cooking chicken tenders:
- Time-saving: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods. It utilizes high pressure and trapped steam to cook food quickly, cutting down cooking time by up to 70%.
- Retains flavors and nutrients: The sealed environment of the Instant Pot helps to lock in flavors and nutrients, resulting in incredibly tender and tasty chicken tenders.
- Versatility in cooking methods: Apart from pressure cooking, the Instant Pot offers other cooking functions such as sautéing and simmering, giving you more flexibility in preparing your chicken tenders.
3. Choosing the Right Chicken
To ensure the best results for your Instant Pot chicken tenders, it’s important to choose the right type and quality of chicken. While you can use various cuts of chicken for this recipe, chicken tenders or chicken breast fillets are the preferred options. They are tender, lean, and cook relatively quickly.
When selecting chicken, opt for fresh, high-quality cuts. Look for chicken that is pink in color with no signs of discoloration or unpleasant odor. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and quality.
4. Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Tenders
Before we delve into the cooking process, let’s gather the necessary ingredients for this mouthwatering recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken tenders or chicken breast fillets
- Olive oil or cooking oil of your choice
- Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika)
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme)
- Optional: Sauce or marinade for added flavor
Ensure that your ingredients are fresh and readily available. By using high-quality seasonings and optional add-ons, you can elevate the flavors of your chicken tenders to a whole new level.
5. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making delicious Instant Pot chicken tenders.
5.1. Preparation
- Start by cleaning the chicken tenders under cold running water. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or your preferred seasonings. Massage the seasonings onto the chicken, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5.2. Instant Pot Cooking
- Preheat your Instant Pot by selecting the “Sauté” function. Add a drizzle of olive oil or cooking oil of your choice to the pot and let it heat up.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken tenders to the Instant Pot. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. This step helps to lock in the flavors.
- After searing, turn off the “Sauté” function. Add any optional fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for extra aroma.
- Place the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure it is sealed. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken tenders. Generally, 6-8 minutes on high pressure should suffice.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully use the quick-release valve to release any remaining pressure.
5.3. Finishing Touches
- Open the Instant Pot and transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a serving plate. They should be moist, tender, and full of flavor.
- Optionally, you can drizzle your chicken tenders with your favorite sauce or marinade to enhance the taste further.
6. Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tenders
To ensure your Instant Pot chicken tenders turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Properly season the chicken tenders before cooking to enhance the flavors.
- Searing the chicken before pressure cooking adds a delightful caramelized crust.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken tenders for optimal tenderness.
7. Serving Suggestions
Now that your Instant Pot chicken tenders are ready, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:
- Classic Pairing: Serve the chicken tenders with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Fresh Salad: Slice the chicken tenders and toss them with a variety of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing for a light and refreshing salad.
- Wraps or Sandwiches: Use the chicken tenders as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Add some lettuce, tomatoes, and your preferred condiments for a quick and satisfying lunch option.
- Asian Inspired: Pair the chicken tenders with stir-fried vegetables and steamed rice. Drizzle with a soy-based sauce or teriyaki glaze for an Asian twist.
- Pasta Delight: Slice the chicken tenders and toss them with your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. Add a creamy Alfredo sauce or a vibrant tomato sauce for a comforting pasta dish.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and side dishes to cater to your personal preferences.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, Instant Pot chicken tenders are a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful meal. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy tender and juicy chicken in a fraction of the time. Follow the step-by-step instructions, choose quality ingredients, and explore various serving options to make your Instant Pot chicken tenders a hit at the dining table. Enjoy!
