Insta Pot Chicken Stew: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It

Name: Insta Pot Chicken Stew: 7 Comforting Reasons to Love It
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups potatoes, diced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp thyme; 1 tsp rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 27, 2025

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Oh wow, let me tell you about my ultimate comfort food – this Instant Pot chicken stew! I can’t even express how much I adore whipping this up on busy weeknights or chilly weekends. It’s my go-to when I want something hearty and delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. Seriously, you can have a warm, cozy meal on the table in about 45 minutes! That’s the magic of the Instant Pot, right?

What I love most is how the flavors meld together so beautifully. The tender chicken thighs soak up all that savory broth and the herbs, while the potatoes and carrots add just the right amount of sweetness and texture. You can almost smell the comforting aroma wafting through the house as it cooks. Each spoonful is like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with family or just enjoying all to yourself while you binge-watch your favorite show. Trust me, once you try this stew, you’ll want to make it time and time again. It’s a recipe that feels like home!

insta pot chicken stew - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this incredible Instant Pot chicken stew. Grab these ingredients before you get started:

1.5 lbs chicken thighs – I prefer boneless and skinless for easy shredding later.
4 cups chicken broth – Use low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake, but don’t skimp on flavor!
2 cups potatoes – Dice them into bite-sized pieces; I love using Yukon Gold for their creaminess.
1 cup carrots – Slice them thin; they’ll cook beautifully and add a nice sweetness.
1 cup celery – Diced for that classic stew crunch!
1 onion – Chopped; this adds a savory depth that’s hard to beat.
3 cloves garlic – Minced; because garlic makes everything better!
1 tsp thyme – Fresh or dried, it brings a lovely earthy flavor.
1 tsp rosemary – Another herb that perfectly complements the chicken.
Salt and pepper – To taste; season it up just how you like it!

These simple ingredients come together to create a stew that’s not just delicious but also packed with warmth and comfort. Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Ready to dive into making this soul-soothing Instant Pot chicken stew? I promise you, it’s easier than you think! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.

Season the chicken: Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Don’t be shy with the seasonings; they really elevate the flavor of the stew!
Set up your Instant Pot: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté mode. Let it heat up for a minute or two. You want it nice and hot for browning the chicken.
Cook the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onions are translucent. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
Brown the chicken: Now, toss in the seasoned chicken thighs. Brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes. This step adds a beautiful depth of flavor, so don’t skip it! Just be careful not to overcrowd the pot; if needed, brown the chicken in batches.
Add the veggies and broth: Once the chicken is browned, it’s time to add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and diced celery into the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom – that’s where the flavor hides!
Pressure cook: Close the lid securely and set the valve to sealing. Switch the Instant Pot to manual mode and set the timer for 10 minutes. It’ll take a few moments to come to pressure, so don’t worry if you don’t hear it hissing right away.
Natural release: When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes. This step helps keep the chicken super tender! After that, you can carefully quick release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to venting.
Shred and serve: Open the lid and take a peek at your delicious stew! Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Stir everything together in the pot – the chicken, veggies, and that rich broth – and voilà! Your stew is ready to be enjoyed.

See? Easy peasy! Just keep an eye on the timing, and you’ll have a warm, comforting stew that’s perfect for any day of the week. Enjoy every spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With the Instant Pot, you can have this delicious chicken stew ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Hearty Flavors: The combination of tender chicken, savory broth, and fresh veggies creates a rich and comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the veggies, this stew is not only satisfying but also a healthy option for the whole family.
Customizable: Want to switch things up? You can easily add your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it your own!
Leftover-Friendly: This stew stores well in the fridge, making it a fantastic meal prep option for those busy days ahead.

Trust me, once you try this Instant Pot chicken stew, you’ll fall in love with its simplicity and heartiness!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Instant Pot chicken stew turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips to avoid any common pitfalls and ensure you’re serving up a bowl of deliciousness:

Don’t skip the browning: This step is crucial for developing flavor. It might seem like an extra step, but trust me, those browned bits are packed with taste! If your pot is too crowded, brown the chicken in batches.
Watch your veggies: If you prefer your vegetables with a bit more bite, consider adding them halfway through the cooking time. This way, they won’t turn mushy!
Adjust the seasoning: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or a splash of lemon juice can brighten everything up.
Let it rest: After cooking, allow the stew to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Use the right cut of chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender. If you use breasts, be careful not to overcook them!

With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making this comforting stew in no time. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this Instant Pot chicken stew is how easy it is to mix things up! Here are some fun variations to keep your stew exciting:

Vegetable swaps: Feel free to use different veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Green beans, peas, or even bell peppers can add a delightful twist!
Herb exploration: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil for a new flavor profile. You could even throw in a bay leaf for extra depth while it cooks.
Protein alternatives: If you want to switch it up, try using chicken breasts, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if needed!
Spicy kick: For those who love a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up. It adds a nice warmth without overpowering the stew.

Feel free to get creative and make this stew your own—every variation is a delicious adventure waiting to happen!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got some leftovers? You’re in luck because this Instant Pot chicken stew stores beautifully! Once it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in individual portions if you want to grab and go!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is super simple. You can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, popping it in the microwave works too – just cover it loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s piping hot. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up! Enjoy your comforting stew anytime you crave that warm, hearty goodness!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This Instant Pot chicken stew is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome goodness. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Sugar: 3g

Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. But one thing’s for sure – you’ll be getting a hearty dose of protein and veggies in every bowl! Perfect for fueling your day!

FAQ Section

Got questions about this Instant Pot chicken stew? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re using frozen chicken thighs. The Instant Pot works wonders with frozen meat!
What other vegetables work well in this stew? Great question! You can easily swap in green beans, peas, or even corn. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on how tender you like your veggies!
Is this stew gluten-free? Yes! This Instant Pot chicken stew is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check your chicken broth to ensure it’s certified gluten-free.
Can I make this stew in advance? Definitely! It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!
How do I thicken the stew if it’s too thin? If your stew turns out thinner than you like, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the pot and simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your Instant Pot chicken stew ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your meal experience! First off, a crusty piece of bread is a must. Whether it’s a warm baguette or some homemade garlic bread, it’s perfect for soaking up that rich broth.

If you’re feeling a bit fancy, a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch. It balances out the hearty stew beautifully! For a comforting twist, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Trust me, the stew mixed with the potatoes is pure heaven!

And don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top, like parsley or thyme, to brighten everything up. It’s these little touches that make your meal feel special. Enjoy every bite!