If you’re dreaming of a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in one pot with effortless cleanup, you’ll fall head over heels for this Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are kissed with a sunshine-bright blend of Italian herbs and spices, seared until golden, and finished in a vibrant broth with a parmesan sprinkle. It’s one of those wonderfully reliable recipes that transforms everyday staples into something delightfully special, and I can practically guarantee it’ll become a weeknight regular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish is all about celebrating the magic of simple pantry staples. Each ingredient in the Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe is handpicked for its flavor and plays a starring role in creating a meal that tastes like hours of effort in just 30 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and the perfect lean canvas for soaking up all those herby flavors.
- Olive Oil: Adds subtle richness and helps sear the chicken beautifully for extra depth.
- Garlic Powder: Delivers that savory backbone of flavor without overpowering the other herbs.
- Onion Powder: Balances the garlic with sweet warmth and rounds out the aromatic profile.
- Dried Basil: Brings a sweet peppery freshness that’s classic in Italian-inspired dishes.
- Dried Oregano: Offers a robust, slightly earthy punch that defines Italian herb blends.
- Dried Thyme: Adds subtle floral notes to keep things lively and aromatic.
- Rosemary: Lends a pine-like aroma for a lovely rustic Italian touch.
- Paprika: Contributes a gentle smokiness and gorgeous color to the dish.
- Salt: Brings out all the flavors and helps the spices penetrate the chicken.
- Black Pepper: Gives a pleasing peppery kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Provides a succulent base for pressure cooking and creates delicious pan juices.
- Lemon Juice: Adds bright acidity that wakes up all the herby flavors.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the warm chicken and broth for a savory, salty finish.
- Fresh Parsley: A pop of color and fresh, garden flavor right before serving.
How to Make Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Italian Herb Blend
Start by stirring together the garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This speedy homemade spice blend is what sets the Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe apart, infusing every bite with layers of flavor. There’s something so satisfying about blending your own Italian seasoning, and it’s much more aromatic than anything pre-mixed.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Generously rub the aromatic herb mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. Give each piece a little loving massage so the spices really stick and penetrate deeply. This is a great way to make sure every forkful is flavorful throughout—not just on the surface.
Step 3: Sear for Extra Flavor
Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, lay the chicken breasts in a single layer and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a light golden color—this caramelization locks in juices and gives your chicken that irresistible, crave-worthy texture. Remove the chicken and set aside (don’t worry, it’ll finish cooking later).
Step 4: Deglaze with Broth and Lemon
Pour the chicken broth and lemon juice into the Instant Pot, then use a wooden spoon to scrape up every last bit of those flavorful browned bits from the bottom. This simple step adds loads of depth and stops the pot from burning while pressure cooking.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Return the seared chicken breasts and any juices to the pot. Lock the lid, set to high pressure, and cook for 7 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam. This gentle approach keeps the chicken ultra juicy and tender—the hallmark of a truly fantastic Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe!
Step 6: Add Parmesan and Garnish
Once the lid is off, sprinkle in the parmesan cheese so it melts into the hot broth, creating a dreamy, savory finish. Top with a generous shower of fresh parsley for that perfect, restaurant-worthy touch.
How to Serve Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t skip the fresh parsley—it brings brightness and color to the finished plate. For a little zing, grate a bit of extra lemon zest over the top, or add an extra dusting of parmesan if you’re a cheese lover. The garnishes don’t just look gorgeous—they add a final burst of fresh Italian flavor.
Side Dishes
The beauty of this recipe is how versatile it is. Serve your Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe over fluffy rice, twirl it with pasta, or pile it alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Crusty bread is always a good idea for mopping up that luscious herby broth!
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the chicken thinly and layering it over an arugula salad for a warm salad twist, or serve it family-style in a shallow bowl with the savory broth, garnished with extra lemon wedges and fresh herbs. If you’re feeding a crowd, arrange the chicken on a platter and drizzle the broth over the top for a beautiful, rustic centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container along with a bit of the broth to keep it extra moist and flavorful; this makes for quick, tasty lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe freezes like a dream! Cool the chicken and broth completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture, and you’ll be ready for a speedy heat-and-eat Italian feast anytime.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, spooning some of the broth over to restore moisture. If using the microwave, cover the container loosely so the chicken stays tender. Stir in a little extra parmesan and fresh herbs just before serving for a flavor boost.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe—they’ll be even more succulent and flavorful. Just increase the cook time by a minute or two to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe to feed a bigger group. Just ensure the chicken pieces are arranged in a single layer as much as possible, and keep the cooking time the same.
Does this work in a slow cooker?
You bet! Sear the chicken on the stovetop first, then transfer it (along with the seasonings and broth) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or until the chicken is tender and juicy, then proceed with the parmesan and garnishes.
What should I do if my chicken breasts are very thick?
If your chicken breasts are extra large or thick, you can slice them in half horizontally before seasoning. This ensures more even cooking and lets every piece soak up maximum herby goodness.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Simply leave out the parmesan cheese, or swap in a dairy-free parmesan alternative. The Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe will still be wonderfully aromatic and flavorful thanks to the robust herb blend.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe. It’s so simple, yet packs a punch of comfort and classic Italian flavor in every bite. The ease and versatility make it a go-to for busy nights or when you just want something delicious with zero fuss. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite chicken dinner!
Print
Instant Pot Italian Herb Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot, Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and aromatic Instant Pot Italian herb chicken recipe that is quick and easy to prepare. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then pressure cooked to perfection in a savory broth. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, this dish is a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other:
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Combine garlic powder, onion powder, basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning over the chicken breasts.
- Sear the Chicken: Sauté chicken in olive oil until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Pressure Cook: Deglaze pot with broth and lemon juice. Return chicken to pot, pressure cook for 7 minutes.
- Finish: Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Enhance with onions or tomatoes
- Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
