Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful and effortless meal that brings comfort and bright flavors together, look no further than Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, paired with tender potatoes cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. The rich sauce brings everything together, making it a one-pot wonder that’s both hearty and fresh. It’s a dish I turn to when I want something quick, flavorful, and downright satisfying without a fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients often make the most memorable dishes, and this recipe shines because of it. Each element plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor, from the punchy garlic to the bright lemon juice and creamy butter that creates a luscious sauce. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting classic:

• Olive oil: For searing the chicken to lock in juiciness and add a golden crust.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 lbs): The star protein, tender and easy to cook quickly in the Instant Pot.
• Mini potatoes (2 lbs): Perfect bite-sized morsels that soak up all the glorious flavors from the cooking liquid.
• Salted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps soften the garlic for a mellow, buttery depth.
• Garlic cloves (5, minced): Provides that unmistakable savory punch and aromatic warmth.
• Chicken broth (½ cup): The cooking liquid base that delivers moisture and a savory backbone to the dish.
• Lemon juice (3 tablespoons): Fresh lemon brightens the entire dish with acidic zing and refreshing notes.
• Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that complements both chicken and potatoes perfectly.
• Sea salt (¼ teaspoon plus more): Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
• Black pepper (to taste): Adds a mild kick and rounds out the seasoning profile.
• Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water): Creates a silky sauce when thickened at the end.
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish): A pop of green and fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with sea salt and black pepper on both sides. Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function and let it heat until it shows “hot.” Add olive oil and carefully sear the chicken breasts for about 2 to 3 minutes each side. This step locks in juices and gives you a lovely golden crust. If your pot is small, sear them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Once done, set the chicken aside while you move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

With the chicken removed, melt the salted butter right in the Instant Pot. Toss in the minced garlic and turn off the sauté function. The residual heat will gently soften the garlic, avoiding any bitterness, and infuse that rich butter with incredible aroma. Let it sit for about a minute to release maximum flavor.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, then use a flat spatula to scrape up every flavorful brown bit stuck to the bottom of the pot from searing. This step is essential to avoid the dreaded burn warning and boost the depth of flavor in your sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper for a perfectly balanced base before layering your chicken and potatoes.

Step 4: Assemble and Cook

Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot insert and arrange the seared chicken breasts in an even layer on top of it. Next, pile your mini potatoes over the chicken, letting the juices mingle as they cook together. Seal the lid and set your pot to Manual High pressure for 5 minutes. It will take about 10 to 15 minutes to come to pressure. Once finished, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure quickly.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Transfer the chicken and potatoes to a serving plate and keep warm. Remove the trivet, turn on the sauté function, and bring the cooking liquid to a rolling simmer. Whisk in your cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about a minute. Taste and adjust seasoning with a bit more sea salt if needed. Turn off the pot and pour the luscious lemon garlic sauce into a serving bowl or gravy boat.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top not only adds a vibrant green color but also a subtle herbal freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce beautifully. For an extra hint of brightness, you can add a few lemon zest curls as well—trust me, it elevates the whole presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with simple, fresh sides makes it even more special. Consider a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus. These fresh vegetables add texture and color contrast that balance the comfort of your main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and family-friendly presentation, serve the chicken and potatoes on a large wooden platter layered with lemon slices and fresh herbs. Another idea is to spoon the thick lemon garlic sauce over the top right before serving, letting guests dive in with a forkful of tender chicken and perfectly cooked potatoes drenched in sauce. It’s a beautiful, rustic way to enjoy this one-pot meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes will keep well for up to 4 days, making it a great option for easy weekday lunches or dinners. Just make sure the sauce is stored separately if possible to maintain the best texture.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover chicken and potatoes. Place portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much from chilling. Gently stirring while reheating will help keep the chicken juicy and the potatoes tender, without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts will add even more flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking time may need adjusting, and it’s best to check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safety and tenderness.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Mini potatoes are ideal because they cook quickly and evenly. If you only have larger potatoes, cut them into uniform bite-sized pieces so everything cooks at the same rate and absorbs the flavors perfectly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or olive oil to keep the richness without dairy. The dish will still be just as flavorful and comforting.

Is it possible to add vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely, vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts can be added on top of the potatoes or on the trivet to steam. Just be mindful of cooking times so everything cooks evenly and remains crisp-tender.

How do I avoid the burn message on the Instant Pot?

Making sure to deglaze the pot fully after searing is key. Scrape up every brown bit stuck to the bottom, and add enough cooking liquid (broth and lemon juice) so the Instant Pot doesn’t detect dryness during pressure cooking. This step prevents the burn warning and helps build flavor.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Garlic Instant Pot Chicken and Potatoes is one of those magical recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate but comes together with minimal effort. It’s fresh, comforting, and packed with flavor — perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave something cozy yet bright. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and find it becomes as much of a favorite in your kitchen as it is in mine.

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