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Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breast

Moist, well-cooked chicken breast straight from the freezer, no thawing required. This recipe is built for meal prep, hectic weeknights , and shredding into whatever you're cooking next.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Natural Pressure Release 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 frozen boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic optional
  • Optional Seasonings
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Italian seasoning
  • Taco seasoning
  • Chili powder
  • Barbecue sauce
  • Salsa
  • Hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Pour the chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot.
  2. Arrange the frozen chicken breasts in the pot, leaving a little space between each piece when possible.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic if using.
  4. Lock the lid and set the pressure valve to Sealing.
  5. Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High Pressure.
  6. Cook according to the size of the chicken breasts (see the cooking time chart above).
  7. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid.
  8. Check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Slice, cube, or shred the chicken as desired. For extra-moist shredded chicken, mix it with a little of the cooking liquid before serving.

Notes

  • Freeze chicken breasts individually for the most even cooking.
  • Chicken broth adds more flavor, but water works just as well.
  • Use chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness.
  • If the chicken isn't fully cooked, pressure cook for 1 additional minute, then allow another natural pressure release.
  • Store shredded chicken with a little cooking liquid to help keep it moist.