Cooking chicken breast in a pressure cooker is one of the fastest and most foolproof ways to get juicy, tender chicken without drying it out. Whether you’re short on time or just want an easy meal prep option, pressure cooking chicken breasts locks in moisture and flavor like no other method. Here’s everything you need to know to cook perfect chicken breast in your pressure cooker every time.
Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Chicken Breast?
Pressure cookers cook food quickly by raising the boiling point of water, which means chicken breasts cook faster and stay moist. Unlike baking or pan-frying, pressure cooking uses steam and pressure to tenderize the meat, preventing it from drying out. Plus, it’s hands-off cooking – just set the timer and let the cooker do the work.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper
– Your favorite seasonings or spice rub (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, etc.)
– 1 to 1½ cups chicken broth or water (for pressure)
– Optional: oil or butter for searing
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Breast in a Pressure Cooker
1. Season Your Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry. Season all sides generously with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. This step adds flavor and helps create a tasty crust if you choose to sear the chicken first.
2. Optional Searing for Extra Flavor
If you want a golden crust, use the sauté function on your electric pressure cooker or preheat your stovetop pressure cooker. Add a tablespoon of oil and sear the chicken breasts for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Add Liquid to the Cooker
Pour 1 to 1½ cups of chicken broth or water into the pressure cooker pot. If you seared the chicken, scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits – these add great flavor to the cooking liquid.
4. Pressure Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the liquid. Seal the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for:
– 8 minutes for fresh chicken breasts around 8 ounces each
– 10-12 minutes if cooking frozen chicken breasts
The pressure cooker will take about 10 minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time starts counting down.
5. Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10 minutes. This helps the chicken finish cooking gently and keeps it juicy. After that, you can carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken breasts and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This rest time lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness.
Tips for the Best Pressure Cooker Chicken Breast
– Check Internal Temperature: The chicken is fully cooked at 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
– Use Broth for Flavor: Cooking with chicken broth instead of water adds richness to the chicken and the leftover cooking liquid.
– Make a Quick Gravy: Use the cooking liquid to make a simple gravy by simmering it with a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) until thickened.
– Add Herbs and Garlic: Toss in fresh herbs or garlic cloves with the chicken for extra aroma and taste.
– Avoid Overcooking: Stick to recommended cooking times to prevent the chicken from becoming tough or stringy.
What About Frozen Chicken Breasts?
No need to thaw! You can cook frozen chicken breasts directly in the pressure cooker. Just increase the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes on high pressure and still allow for a natural release. This is a great time-saver for busy days.
Can You Cook Bone-In Chicken Breasts?
Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can also be cooked in a pressure cooker. They usually need a few extra minutes (about 10 minutes) due to the bone, but the process is similar. The bone helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor.
Using the Leftover Liquid
Don’t throw away the cooking liquid! It’s packed with flavor and can be strained and used as a base for soups, sauces, or gravies. Just simmer it down or thicken it with a bit of cornstarch to make a delicious sauce to pour over your chicken.
Creative Serving Ideas
Pressure cooker chicken breast is incredibly versatile. Use it in:
– Salads with fresh greens and vinaigrette
– Sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings
– Pasta dishes with creamy or tomato sauces
– Stir-fries or rice bowls with veggies and sauces
Final Thoughts
Cooking chicken breast in a pressure cooker is quick, easy, and yields juicy, tender results every time. Whether fresh or frozen, with a simple seasoning or a flavorful rub, this method is perfect for busy cooks who want delicious chicken without the hassle.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken breast!