If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together effortlessly, this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, tender chicken breasts soak up the rich, savory flavors of a creamy gravy, all made quickly in your Instant Pot. The magic lies in the simple seasoning and homemade gravy that create a dish both cozy and satisfies those soul-soothing meal cravings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients straightforward and accessible is key to making this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken breasts providing the hearty base, to the ranch seasoning delivering that wonderful depth of flavor, and the chicken gravy mix tying it all together with a luscious finish.
- 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless skinless): Choose fresh or thawed breasts for even cooking and the perfect tender texture.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth: This liquid not only helps cook the chicken but infuses it with savory richness.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (Hidden Valley recommended): Adds an herby, tangy punch to elevate the gravy flavor wonderfully.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A little extra garlic flavor balances the seasoning without overpowering the dish.
- Pepper (to taste): Fresh cracked pepper gives a subtle kick and depth to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 teaspoon cold water: This slurry thickens the gravy perfectly, making it velvety and smooth.
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix: The secret to that classic, comforting gravy taste everyone loves.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cooking Liquid
Start by adding the chicken broth, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper into your Instant Pot. Whisk everything together until the powders dissolve completely. This step ensures the flavors are evenly distributed and ready to infuse the chicken gently during cooking.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Set the Pressure Cooker
Place the chicken breasts into the liquid, making sure they are mostly submerged. If needed, spoon some broth over the top for full coverage. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set the valve to “sealing.” Program your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes—this pressure cooking will seal in moisture, resulting in deliciously tender chicken.
Step 3: Release the Pressure Safely
Once the cooking timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, which gently finishes cooking the chicken without drying it out. Then, perform a quick pressure release for the remaining steam, ensuring the pot is safe to open without any unexpected bursts.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy and Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and set aside. Combine the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Pour this into the pot along with the chicken gravy mix. Press the “sauté” button and whisk continuously until the gravy mix fully dissolves and thickens to your desired consistency, usually within a few minutes. Turn off the sauté function by pressing “keep warm.” Meanwhile, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot, stirring it into the rich gravy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is now ready to serve! This warm, flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides for a satisfying meal.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the creamy gravy. For an extra touch, cracked black pepper over the top enhances the dish’s savory notes beautifully.
Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are the classic companion for this dish, as they soak up every bit of the delicious gravy. Alternatively, creamy buttered egg noodles or fluffy white rice work wonders to keep your plate balanced and nourishing. Roasted vegetables on the side add a nutritious crunch that pairs perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken and gravy over flaky biscuits or inside warm baked potatoes for a fun twist. You can even spoon it over a bed of sautéed greens for a lighter option that still feels indulgent. Presentation with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of rustic bread will impress anyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe freezes wonderfully. Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. You can add a splash of broth or water if the gravy thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great and add a slightly richer flavor and tenderness due to their higher fat content.
Is the ranch seasoning necessary?
While you can omit it, the ranch packet really elevates the flavor profile of this dish, adding herbs and a tangy depth that pairs perfectly with the gravy.
Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?
You could use alternative thickeners like arrowroot powder or flour, but cornstarch is preferred for its smooth texture and quick thickening power.
Can I double the recipe?
You can double the ingredients, but make sure not to exceed your Instant Pot’s max fill line. Cooking time may remain the same, but always check internal chicken temperature.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your ranch seasoning and chicken gravy mix labels to be sure, as some brands may contain gluten. Opting for gluten-free versions makes the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is such a gem for anyone wanting a quick, comforting meal packed with flavor and ease. Its simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I hope you give it a try soon and find yourself coming back to this recipe as a reliable favorite to brighten your dinner rotation.
Print
Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a quick and comforting meal that combines tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a flavorful ranch-seasoned broth, finished with a rich, homemade-style chicken gravy. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (Approx. 1 ounce, Hidden Valley recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pepper to taste
Gravy Thickening
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cold water
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix (Approx. 1 ounce)
Instructions
- Prepare the broth mixture: In your Instant Pot, combine the chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all the powdered seasonings are completely dissolved to create a flavorful base.
- Add and cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the Instant Pot ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Spoon some broth over the top if necessary. Secure the lid, set the valve to “sealing”, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Release the pressure: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
- Prepare the gravy and shred chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry. Add this slurry and the chicken gravy mix to the Instant Pot. Press the “sauté” button and whisk continuously until the gravy mix is dissolved and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Turn off the sauté function by pressing “keep warm.” Meanwhile, shred or chop the chicken and return it to the pot to coat with the gravy.
- Serve: Serve the chicken and gravy immediately. It pairs excellently with mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, pasta or egg noodles, or rice for a hearty meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the garlic powder and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
- For a thicker gravy, allow it to simmer a little longer on sauté mode, stirring constantly.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be doubled, but consider cooking time adjustments and pot capacity.
