If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, you’ve landed in the right place! Cooking paleo chicken recipes in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy weeknights. This method not only saves you time but locks in all those delicious flavors and nutrients. I love how simple and straightforward this paleo chicken recipe is—just a handful of ingredients and you’re ready to go! Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic choice for anyone on the paleo diet. Seriously, in just about 25 minutes, you can have a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s sure to satisfy. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious paleo chicken recipe in the Instant Pot! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of chicken fillet: Tender and juicy, this is the star of the show!
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil: For that perfect sear and rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Adds a lovely depth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder: Enhances the savory notes beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon of paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon of salt: Essential for bringing out all those flavors!
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: A little kick to balance the dish.
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice: A splash of brightness to elevate the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle for that fresh, vibrant finish!
These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also nourishing. You’ll love how easy it is to whip this up!
How to Prepare Paleo Chicken Recipes Instant Pot
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious paleo chicken in your Instant Pot! It’s super easy, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip this up. Just follow these instructions, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
First things first, turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. This is where the magic begins! Add the 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot and let it heat up for about a minute. You want that oil nice and hot so the chicken can get a beautiful golden sear.
While the oil is heating, season your 2 pounds of chicken fillet with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with those spices. Trust me, this seasoning is what makes your chicken burst with flavor!
Now, once the oil is heated, carefully add the seasoned chicken to the pot. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until it gets a nice brown color. This step is crucial because it locks in all those delicious juices!
After searing, pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. The broth will keep everything moist, and the lemon juice adds a refreshing zing that complements the chicken perfectly. Give it a little stir to combine everything.
Next, close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select manual mode and set the timer for 10 minutes. This is where the Instant Pot works its magic, cooking the chicken to perfection!
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes. This means you don’t touch the valve right away; just let it sit and do its thing. After 5 minutes, you can quick release the remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve to venting. Just be cautious—hot steam will escape!
Finally, remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart beautifully! Serve it up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that lovely pop of color. And there you have it—a flavorful, healthy paleo chicken dish that’s sure to impress!
Nutritional Information Section
Let’s talk numbers! This paleo chicken recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 60g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But one thing’s for sure—this meal is a protein powerhouse, perfect for fueling your day while keeping it paleo-friendly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This paleo chicken recipe in the Instant Pot is a total winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’re going to love it:
- Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and wholesome spices, this dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and totally paleo-friendly.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and the brightness of lemon juice makes every bite bursting with flavor, keeping your taste buds happy!
- Versatile Base: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it a great go-to meal!
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking in the Instant Pot means less mess and fewer dishes to wash—who doesn’t love that?
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a regular in your dinner rotation!
Tips for Success
To make sure your paleo chicken recipe turns out perfect every time, here are some pro tips that I swear by!
- Don’t rush the searing: Give your chicken enough time to get that beautiful golden crust. If you rush it, you might end up with steamed chicken instead of a nice sear.
- Use fresh spices: Fresh spices make a world of difference in flavor. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, it’s time to refresh them!
- Adjust the liquid: If you find your chicken is drying out, try adding a bit more chicken broth or lemon juice to keep it moist. Instant Pots can vary, so don’t hesitate to tweak it!
- Let it rest: After cooking, allowing for a natural release is key. This helps the chicken retain its juices and enhances the overall flavor.
- Experiment with garnishes: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It adds a lovely brightness, but feel free to try other herbs like cilantro or basil for a twist!
With these tips, you’ll nail this recipe every single time. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this paleo chicken recipe in the Instant Pot is how easily it adapts to your taste! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:
- Spice it Up: Try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick! If you love heat, this will elevate your dish.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Fresh herbs can add a delightful twist and deepen the flavors.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini with the chicken for a one-pot meal packed with nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking times!
- Citrus Twist: Swap out lemon juice for lime or orange juice to give it a different fruity zing. Each citrus brings its unique flavor profile that complements the chicken.
- Honey Glaze: For a hint of sweetness, drizzle a tablespoon of honey over the chicken before serving. It balances beautifully with the savory spices!
With these variations, you can keep your meals exciting while sticking to the healthy paleo lifestyle. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delicious paleo chicken recipe is a breeze! Once your chicken has cooled down, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. You can store it for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is just as simple. You can pop the chicken in the microwave for a quick fix—just cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it juicy. Whatever method you choose, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to go in no time!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making paleo chicken recipes in the Instant Pot? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken fillets, just increase the cooking time to about 12-14 minutes. Be sure to add a little extra liquid to help the Instant Pot come to pressure.
Q2: What can I serve with this paleo chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed veggies, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad. You can mix and match to create a balanced meal that fits your paleo diet!
Q3: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead?
Yes! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Just make sure to sear the chicken beforehand for added flavor if you can.
Q4: How can I make this recipe more flavorful?
Feel free to play around with spices and herbs! Add fresh thyme or rosemary, or toss in some crushed red pepper for a bit of heat. Experimenting will help you find your perfect flavor profile!
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
You can double the ingredients, but it’s best to cook in batches to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. The Instant Pot works best when there’s enough space for steam to circulate!

Paleo Chicken Recipes Instant Pot: 5 Easy Flavor Boosts
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A simple and healthy paleo chicken recipe made in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken fillet
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function.
- Add olive oil and let it heat up.
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken to the pot and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Select manual mode and set the timer for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
- Remove chicken and shred it with two forks.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.
- You can add vegetables for more nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Paleo
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 60g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: paleo chicken recipes instant pot