Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken

Have you ever wondered how to create a delicious, savory dish in under 30 minutes? If you’re looking for quick meal solutions that don’t compromise on flavor, you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll reveal how to make Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken, which is not only easy but also bursting with refreshing lemon flavor and rich buttery goodness. This recipe is popular for busy weeknights, and it’s a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Needed

6 bone-in chicken thighs with skin: This cut provides rich flavor and tender meat that pairs well with the lemon butter sauce.

4 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic adds aromatic depth and richness to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

1/2 teaspoon paprika: This spice adds a mild smokiness, balancing the zesty lemon flavor.

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes: For a hint of spice, these flakes bring warmth, contrasting beautifully with the butter and lemon.

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Extra garlic flavor ensures your dish is aromatic and savory.

1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors in the dish.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a light, fruity note to the chicken.

5 tablespoons butter: For a rich and luscious sauce that marries the lemon and chicken beautifully.

1/2 cup chopped onion (1/2 small onion): This provides a sweet and savory backdrop for the chicken.

3 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh squeezed): Fresh lemon juice will give the dish a bright, tangy kick that revitalizes the palate.

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds complexity and depth to the flavor profile.

1 tablespoon lemon zest: Zest brings an intense lemon flavor that complements the juice.

1 cup chicken broth: This adds moisture and contributes to the flavor of the sauce.

1 tablespoon cornstarch: For thickening the sauce, making it cling perfectly to the chicken.

1 tablespoon water: Used to create a slurry that thickens the sauce.

Fresh chopped parsley (optional): This adds a burst of color and freshness when sprinkled on top before serving.

Lemon Slices (optional): For garnish, they add visual appeal and an extra pop of lemon flavor.

Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes.
Cooking time: 7 minutes under pressure.
Natural release time: 5 minutes.
Total time: 22 minutes, which is significantly less than conventional cooking methods.

How to Make Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by combining paprika, chili flakes, salt, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Rub this seasoning mixture generously onto the skin of the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In your Instant Pot, select the sauté function and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once heated, add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown. This step builds a flavorful base, so resist the urge to skip it. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add 5 tablespoons of butter to the same pot. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for about a minute. This will elevate the aroma in your kitchen and create a flavor-packed base.

Step 4: Deglaze with Lemon Juice

Pour in 3 tablespoons of lemon juice. Use a spatula to deglaze the bottom of the pot, scraping up any browned bits. These bits are packed with flavor and are essential for creating a rich sauce.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Ingredients

Stir in 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Mix well to combine all the flavors thoroughly.

Step 6: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and turn the valve to the sealing position. Set the pressure cooker to cook for 7 minutes. Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes before fully releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is out, you can focus on thickening the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. With the pot set to sauté, add the cornstarch mixture to the remaining juices in the pot. Whisk continuously for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens up nicely.

Step 8: Return the Chicken to the Sauce

Finally, add the chicken back into the pot, allowing it to soak up the delicious, thickened lemon butter sauce.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the chicken onto a serving plate, drizzling with sauce and garnishing with fresh chopped parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 420
Total Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Sodium: 560mg
Total Carbohydrates: 4g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 36g

Healthier Alternatives For Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken

You can easily swap ingredients for healthier options without sacrificing flavor. Consider using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for less fat, or replace butter with Greek yogurt to maintain a creamy texture with fewer calories. For a gluten-free option, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to enhance nutritional value without compromising taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken alongside steamed asparagus or a fresh mixed greens salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the incredible lemon butter sauce. Experiment with different choices to suit your palate!

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Skipping Browning: Always brown your chicken to develop flavors. It adds depth to the final dish.
• Not Deglazing: Failing to scrape up the bits after sautéing can result in a less flavorful sauce.
• Ignoring Pressure Release: Follow pressure release instructions carefully to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy.
• Overcooking: While the Instant Pot is forgiving, cooking chicken thighs too long can lead to dryness.

Storing Tips For Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken

You can refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To maintain flavor and freshness, ensure the chicken is cooled before storing. Alternatively, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making Instant Pot Lemon Butter Chicken is a delightful way to incorporate a zesty and savory dish into your weeknight rotation. With minimal prep and cooking time, this meal is not only a culinary success but also a fantastic option for those on a tight schedule. We invite you to give this recipe a try, share your experiences, and explore other related dishes to expand your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to leave feedback on how your version turned out!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make the dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to enhance the heat.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

While it is best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen thighs by extending the cooking time to 10-12 minutes, depending on their thickness.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can be used, but broth will yield a more flavorful sauce.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and cook this dish beforehand. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving for best results.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, simply replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. The flavor will remain deliciously rich.

What is the best way to serve this chicken?

Serve it immediately over your favorite sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

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