Juicy Instant Pot chicken bites served with dipping sauce on a plate.

Instant Pot Chicken Bites Recipe

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why make this recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Bites are a fantastic choice for busy families or anyone who wants a quick, delicious meal. They are flavorful, tender, and can be ready in just a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. By using an Instant Pot, you not only speed up the cooking process but also capture all the flavors, making each bite a delight. Plus, these chicken bites can be used in various dishes, from salads to wraps or served simply with sides.

how to make Instant Pot Chicken Bites

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 large breasts)
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, divided
  • Smoked Paprika: 2 teaspoons (use sweet paprika if you prefer a less smoky flavor)
  • Garlic Powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Onion Powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1 ½ teaspoons (adjust to taste)
  • Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
  • Chicken Broth: ½ cup, low-sodium (or water)

Directions

  1. Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This is a crucial first step for getting a good sear. Excess moisture on the surface of the chicken will steam it instead of browning it.

  2. Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. Making the pieces a consistent size is vital for even cooking. If some pieces are much larger than others, the smaller ones will be overcooked by the time the larger ones are done.

  3. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until they are thoroughly mixed. This ensures that every piece of chicken gets an even coating of all the delicious spices.

  4. Place the cubed chicken in a medium-sized bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and toss to coat lightly. This will help the seasoning stick. Sprinkle the entire spice blend over the chicken and use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together until each piece is completely and evenly coated. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!

  5. Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function on high. Once the display reads “Hot,” add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Carefully add half of the seasoned chicken to the pot in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of brown.

  6. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, just until a golden-brown crust forms. This step creates a deep, savory flavor. Once browned, use tongs to remove the first batch of chicken and set it aside on a plate. Repeat with the second batch.

  7. Turn off the “Sauté” function by pressing “Cancel.” You will notice browned bits (called “fond”) stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is pure flavor! Pour the ½ cup of chicken broth into the hot pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape all of those browned bits off the bottom. This process is called deglazing.

  8. Return all the sautéed chicken (and any juices from the plate) back into the Instant Pot. Stir everything together with the broth. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, making sure the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) button and set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure.

  9. Once the 4-minute cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep. Do not immediately release the pressure. Allow the pot to perform a 5-minute Natural Pressure Release (NPR). After 5 minutes, carefully move the steam release valve to the “Venting” position to perform a Quick Release of any remaining pressure.

  10. Once the float valve has dropped, it is safe to open the lid. Give the chicken bites a gentle stir. They are now ready to serve!

how to serve Instant Pot Chicken Bites

Instant Pot Chicken Bites are versatile. You can serve them as they are with a side of vegetables or rice. They also work great in wraps, salads, or tacos. Drizzle some sauce or dressing on top for extra flavor.

how to store Instant Pot Chicken Bites

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container. They can be thawed and reheated easily when needed.

tips to make Instant Pot Chicken Bites

  • Make sure to dry the chicken well for better browning.
  • Do not overcrowd the pot while sautéing for a perfect sear.
  • Experiment with different spices if you want to change up the flavor profile.
  • You can add vegetables to the Instant Pot during cooking if you’d like a one-pot meal.

variation

You can change the protein by using turkey or pork if you prefer. For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice blend.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time. For frozen chicken, pressure cook for about 10-12 minutes.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but you might need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.

What should I serve with Chicken Bites?
Chicken bites pair well with rice, potatoes, salads, or with tortillas for wraps. You can also serve with your favorite sauces for dipping.

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