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Easy Juicy Instant Pot Salsa Chicken Recipe for Tender Weeknight Dinners

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A quick and flavorful Instant Pot chicken recipe infused with salsa and spices, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. The pressure cooking locks in moisture, making the chicken tender and juicy every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) your favorite salsa (medium or mild tomato-based)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Toss the chicken breasts or thighs with olive oil and then coat evenly with the spice mix.
  3. Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate when done. (Optional but recommended)
  4. Pour 1 cup (240 ml) of your favorite salsa directly into the Instant Pot. Scrape the bottom to deglaze and loosen any browned bits.
  5. Place the seared chicken on top of the salsa. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ high pressure for 8 minutes if using chicken breasts, or 10 minutes for thighs.
  6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
  7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook under pressure for an additional 2 minutes.
  8. Remove and shred the chicken with two forks, then stir back into the salsa, or serve whole pieces topped with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

Searing the chicken before pressure cooking is optional but adds extra flavor and texture. Use chicken thighs for juicier results. Scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot well after adding salsa to avoid burn warnings. Natural pressure release helps keep chicken tender. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot chicken, salsa chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, pressure cooker chicken, juicy chicken, quick chicken recipe

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/easy-juicy-instant-pot-salsa-chicken-recipe-for-tender-weeknight-dinners/