Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Stew is the ultimate cozy, one-pot meal for chilly days. Tender chicken, hearty potatoes, and vibrant veggies simmer together in a savory broth, creating a healthy comfort food that’s ready in under an hour. Trust me—once you try this, it’ll become your go-to winter warmer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting—just sauté, pressure cook, and enjoy!
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and a light broth, it’s as nourishing as it is satisfying.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time for cozying up after dinner.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Stew:

• Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
• Yellow onion & celery: Add depth of flavor and heartiness.
• Garlic: Fresh and fragrant—a must for any stew!
• Chicken broth: Use store-bought or Better Than Bouillon for convenience.
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings a savory, umami kick.
• Fresh rosemary & thyme: For that cozy, herby aroma (or swap for poultry seasoning).
• Bay leaves: Add subtle depth to the broth.
• Carrots: Thick rounds hold their shape perfectly under pressure.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Juicy, tender, and easy to shred.
• Baby yellow potatoes: Creamy and perfectly cooked.
• Frozen green peas: Added at the end for color and sweetness.
• White wine vinegar: Brightens up the stew just before serving.
• Salt & pepper: Season to taste.
• Optional garnish: Chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Stew

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• Turn on the Instant Pot’s Sauté function and wait until it says “hot.”
• Add olive oil, onion, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant.
• Stir in the garlic, then turn off Sauté and let the residual heat cook it for another minute.
• Deglaze with a splash of broth, scraping up any browned bits.

2. Layer the Ingredients

• Pour in the remaining broth, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and salt.
• Add the carrots in an even layer.
• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then lay them on top of the carrots.
• Layer the baby potatoes over the chicken, followed by the peas. Do not stir.

3. Pressure Cook

• Close the lid, set the vent to sealing, and pressure cook on High for 10 minutes.
• Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.

4. Thicken and Finish

• Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and discard the bay leaves.
• To thicken the stew, blend 2 cups of the veggies and broth with an immersion blender, then stir the mixture back into the pot.
• Add the white wine vinegar for brightness.
• Shred or dice the chicken and stir it back into the stew.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve!

Grandma’s Pro Tips To Make The Best Instant Pot Chicken Stew

• Season in Layers: Season the chicken, broth, and veggies separately to build deep, rich flavors throughout the stew. Don’t just rely on seasoning at the end.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: After sautéing the aromatics, use a splash of broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This prevents the “burn” warning and adds extra flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Layer ingredients as instructed, with potatoes and peas on top. Overcrowding or stirring everything together can lead to uneven cooking.
• Blend for Thickness: Blend a portion of the stew to create a naturally thick, creamy texture without the need for flour or cream.
• Add Freshness at the End: A splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice right before serving brightens the dish and balances the richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley adds color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Here are some delicious and practical serving suggestions for your Instant Pot Chicken Stew to elevate your meal and satisfy everyone at the table:

With Crusty Bread

Serve the stew with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the rich broth. A rustic baguette or sourdough works perfectly.

Over Fluffy Rice

Spoon the stew over steamed white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a heartier meal. The grains absorb the flavors beautifully.

Alongside Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side. The smooth texture contrasts nicely with the chunky stew.

With a Fresh Side Salad

Balance the richness of the stew with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Add cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for extra freshness.

With Buttery Biscuits or Dinner Rolls

Fluffy biscuits or dinner rolls add a delightful touch, perfect for scooping up every last bite of the stew.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness.

With a Sprinkle of Cheese (Optional)

A light dusting of Parmesan or cheddar can add an extra layer of flavor, though it’s completely optional.

Variations for Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Here are some creative variations to customize your Instant Pot Chicken Stew based on your taste and dietary preferences.

Protein Variations

• Chicken and Shrimp: Add shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for a surf-and-turf twist. Try this delicious Chicken and Shrimp Recipe for inspiration.
• Turkey Stew: Swap chicken with turkey breast or leftover roasted turkey for a lean alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add chickpeas or white beans for a plant-based version.

Flavor Enhancements

• Creamy Stew: Stir in coconut milk, heavy cream, or a dollop of sour cream before serving for a richer texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Herb-Infused: Boost the flavor with fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil.

Vegetable Variations

• Root Veggie Mix: Add parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a heartier dish.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the potatoes and use cauliflower florets or zucchini instead.
• Greens Boost: Stir in spinach, kale, or Swiss chard just before serving.

Broth and Base Options

• Tomato-Based: Add canned diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer, stew-like consistency.
• Coconut Curry: Mix in curry powder and coconut milk for an aromatic, spiced variation.
• Lemon-Herb: Brighten the stew with lemon juice and zest for a refreshing finish.

How to Store and Reheat Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Properly storing and reheating your Instant Pot Chicken Stew ensures it stays fresh, flavorful, and safe to enjoy for days. Here’s a simple guide to help you manage leftovers.

Storing Instant Pot Chicken Stew

• Refrigeration: Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stew in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Tip: If your stew contains potatoes, note that they can become slightly grainy when frozen. Consider freezing the stew without potatoes and adding fresh ones when reheating.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Stew

• Stovetop: Reheat the stew over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the stew has thickened.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Instant Pot: Use the “Sauté” function to gently reheat the stew, stirring occasionally.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Meal Prep: Cook the stew ahead of time and portion it into individual containers for quick meals throughout the week.
• Freezer Meal: Prepare the stew up to the cooking stage, then freeze the uncooked ingredients in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, simply dump everything into the Instant Pot and cook as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Stew is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or freezing leftovers for busy days, this recipe delivers satisfying results every time. With its versatile variations, easy storage options, and simple reheating process, it’s a dish you’ll want to make on repeat.

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