Name: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts; Salt (to taste); Ground black pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 6 oz cremini mushrooms (or white mushrooms, stems trimmed); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup whipping cream (or heavy whipping cream); 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 3 dashes cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

If there’s one dish that has the power to turn a regular weeknight dinner into something special, it’s Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot). This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs or breasts with earthy cremini mushrooms and a luscious cream sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. The best part? It’s ready in no time, making it a go-to for busy evenings or when you’re craving something comforting yet gourmet. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot) is a personal favorite because of its rich flavors and the ease of preparation. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing the chicken to become tender and soak up all the savory garlic and mushroom goodness. Plus, the creamy sauce is versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. It’s a one-pot meal that feels indulgent but is straightforward enough for anyone to tackle.

What Goes In

To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

1 1/2 to 2 lbs (750g-1kg) chicken thighs or chicken breasts
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 oz (175g) cremini mushrooms or white mushrooms, stems trimmed
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup whipping cream or heavy whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
3 dashes cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish

Hardware & Gadgets

Here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen to make this dish:

Instant Pot – the star of the show that makes this recipe a breeze.
Cutting board – for prepping your chicken and mushrooms.
Sharp knife – to chop the ingredients easily.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure you get the quantities just right.
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the ingredients in the pot.

From Start to Finish: Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot)

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot) masterpiece.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs or breasts with salt and ground black pepper. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms

In the same pot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, toss in the cremini mushrooms and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth to your sauce!

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Return the chicken to the pot. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then use the quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Make It Creamy

Carefully open the lid and remove the chicken again. Stir in the whipping cream, additional salt, cayenne pepper, and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer on sauté mode for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Serve

Return the chicken to the pot to coat it in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful creation with your favorite side dishes!

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider these substitutes:

For dairy-free: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
For gluten-free: Ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free and use gluten-free pasta if pairing.
For less spice: Omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to taste.
For lower fat: Substitute with half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Don’t Do This

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot):

Don’t skip the deglazing step! Scraping the pot is crucial for flavor.
Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry. Stick to the recommended pressure cooking time.
Don’t rush the natural release; it helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Do not add the cream too early; it’s best added after cooking to prevent curdling.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (if you can resist finishing it all!), here’s how to store your Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot):

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 15 minutes at high pressure. Make sure to check that it’s fully cooked before serving.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat before serving. Just be sure to store it properly to maintain freshness.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Sauté the chicken and mushrooms in a large pot, add the broth and cream, and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make this Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken (Instant Pot). You’re in for a treat that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting meal that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!