Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to whip up a hearty dinner in no time – instant pot chicken quarters! Seriously, this recipe is a game changer. If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy tender, juicy chicken without spending hours in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat! With just a few ingredients and the magic of the instant pot, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 35 minutes. How amazing is that?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and flavor. You’re just seasoning the chicken, sautéing it for a couple of minutes, then letting the instant pot do all the heavy lifting. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without the fuss. Plus, the chicken comes out so flavorful, thanks to the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the irresistible world of instant pot chicken quarters – you won’t regret it!
Ingredients List
To make the most delicious instant pot chicken quarters, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken quarters
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
These ingredients come together effortlessly to create a succulent dish that’s sure to impress. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste – if you love a little kick, toss in some cayenne pepper or your favorite herbs! The instant pot makes everything so easy, so you can focus on enjoying every bite of this fantastic meal.
How to Prepare Instant Pot Chicken Quarters
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making instant pot chicken quarters is super straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a fabulous meal ready in no time!
- First things first, grab those chicken quarters and season them generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure every part gets a good rub – this is where all the flavor starts!
- Next, turn on your instant pot and select the sauté function. Once it’s heated up, add the olive oil. You’ll want to let that oil warm up a bit; it should shimmer when it’s ready.
- Now, add the seasoned chicken quarters to the pot. Brown them on both sides for about 4-5 minutes each. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor. Just keep an eye on them, so they don’t stick!
- Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside for a moment. Pour in that cup of chicken broth, scraping up any delicious bits stuck to the bottom of the pot – these add tons of flavor!
- Place the chicken quarters back into the pot, making sure they’re nestled nicely in the broth. Now, seal the lid securely.
- Select the manual setting and cook for 15 minutes. Don’t worry, the instant pot will take a little time to come to pressure before the timer starts, but that’s all part of the magic!
- When the cooking time is up, let the pot naturally release for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the chicken moist and tender. After that, quick release any remaining pressure and carefully open the lid.
- And there you have it! Serve your hot, juicy chicken quarters right away. I like to pair them with some simple sides or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying delicious instant pot chicken quarters, it’s nice to know that they can fit into a healthy diet! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 chicken quarter):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, and they can vary depending on the specific brands and cuts of chicken you choose. But overall, you’re getting a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s low in carbs! Perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, dinner is ready in no time!
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of garlic, onion, and paprika gives the chicken a mouthwatering taste that your family will adore.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish is both satisfying and guilt-free!
- Ease of Cooking: The instant pot takes care of everything, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables, making each meal a new adventure.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your instant pot chicken quarters turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some pro tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! The more flavor you can pack onto those chicken quarters, the better they’ll taste. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences – maybe add some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat!
- Don’t Skip the Sauté: Browning the chicken before pressure cooking is a crucial step! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a beautiful color to your chicken. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning – a little golden-brown is perfect!
- Natural Release is Key: Allowing the instant pot to release pressure naturally for about 10 minutes helps keep the chicken juicy and tender. Don’t rush this step; your patience will pay off!
- Check Your Chicken: If you’re unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. This will ensure it’s safe and delicious!
- Experiment with Additions: Feel free to toss in some vegetables like carrots or potatoes for a one-pot meal. Just remember that denser veggies may need a little longer to cook, so cut them into smaller pieces!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering instant pot chicken quarters. Happy cooking!
Variations
The beauty of instant pot chicken quarters lies in its versatility, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ideas to customize this recipe while keeping that delicious essence intact:
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spice blends! Try adding curry powder for an exotic twist or Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flair. A dash of chili powder can also bring a nice kick!
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers right before sealing the lid. They’ll soak up all those incredible flavors and make your meal a complete feast.
- Sweet and Savory: For something different, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the chicken before cooking. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory spices.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor profile. Just toss a few sprigs in with the chicken for a fragrant finish!
These variations keep your instant pot chicken quarters exciting, so you can enjoy a new flavor experience every time you make it!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to instant pot chicken quarters, the sides you choose can really elevate your meal! I love to serve these juicy chicken quarters alongside a fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. The crunch and acidity of the salad perfectly balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
Another favorite of mine is creamy mashed potatoes or garlic parmesan mashed cauliflower. They soak up the chicken’s delicious juices, making every bite a heavenly experience! If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
And don’t forget about sauces! A drizzle of homemade barbecue sauce or a savory mushroom gravy can take the dish to the next level. Whatever you choose, these pairings will make your instant pot chicken quarters a complete and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious instant pot chicken quarters is super easy! First, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents any unwanted moisture build-up. You can store the chicken in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When it’s time to reheat, you can pop the chicken in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or for the best results, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Just be careful not to overcook it, or it might dry out. Enjoy every juicy bite again!
FAQ Section
I know you might have a few questions about making these instant pot chicken quarters, so let’s dive into some common queries that pop up!
- How long do I cook the chicken quarters? For perfectly cooked chicken quarters, you’ll want to set your instant pot to cook on manual for 15 minutes. Just remember, it takes a little time for the pot to come to pressure before the timer starts!
- Can I use frozen chicken quarters? Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken, just increase the cooking time to 20 minutes. Make sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
- What if I don’t have chicken broth? No worries! You can substitute with water or even vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. If you want a richer taste, a splash of apple juice can add a nice twist!
- How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings? If you’re cooking for one or two, you can easily halve the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using fewer chicken pieces – it may only need 12 minutes on manual to be perfectly tender.
- Can I add vegetables to the instant pot? Definitely! Toss in some chopped carrots, potatoes, or even green beans before sealing the lid. They’ll cook beautifully alongside the chicken and soak up all those incredible flavors!
These tips should help clarify any doubts and make your cooking experience even smoother. Enjoy your delicious instant pot chicken quarters!
Instant Pot Chicken Quarters: 7 Simple Steps to Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and quick recipe for delicious instant pot chicken quarters.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken quarters
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Season chicken quarters with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Turn on the instant pot and select the sauté function.
- Add olive oil and brown the chicken quarters on both sides.
- Remove the chicken and add chicken broth to the pot.
- Place the chicken back in the pot and seal the lid.
- Select the manual setting and cook for 15 minutes.
- Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- You can add vegetables to the pot if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken quarter
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: instant pot chicken quarters, chicken recipe, quick dinner
