If you are craving something truly comforting and packed with flavor, this Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. This wholesome stew is not only a breeze to make but also delivers that warm, satisfying hug of a meal that you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving a one-pot dinner that feels like home, this recipe ticks all the boxes with its luscious texture and bright, hearty flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role—adding layers of aroma, taste, and texture that make the stew so irresistible. From the mellow sweetness of carrots to the robust earthiness of herbs, the combination is a harmony you won’t forget.
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs add juiciness while breasts offer lean protein—either works wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and infusing the flavors right from the start.
- 1 medium onion, diced: The foundation of savory depth and natural sweetness.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: A punch of aroma that wakes up the stew.
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and bright color.
- 3 celery stalks, chopped: Offers a crisp, fresh counterpoint to the tender cooked veggies.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: For hearty body and creamy texture once cooked.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices: Brings acidity and umami depth to balance the richness.
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The flavorful cooking liquid that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy herbal notes that echo classic stew flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant pine-like essence that lifts the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and warmth.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Deepens the tomato flavor and thickens the broth slightly.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional): Great for thickening if you prefer a richer stew.
- 1 tablespoon cold water (if using cornstarch): Needed to create a smooth slurry for thickening.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A bright green touch that adds freshness at the end.
How to Make Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken
Start by setting your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heating the olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until soft and fragrant. This step builds the savory base of your stew. Next, add the chunks of chicken, letting them cook for another 2 to 3 minutes as you stir every now and then, sealing in juices and starting the delicious browning process.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Now it’s time to bring in all the vibrant vegetables and herbs. Add the chopped carrots, celery, diced potatoes, and canned tomatoes with their juices to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so the flavors marry beautifully before cooking.
Step 3: Pressure Cook the Stew
Secure the lid tightly and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (Manual) on High for 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens—ingredients come together under pressure to become tender, flavorful, and utterly comforting. Once cooking finishes, allow a natural release for 10 minutes to retain moisture, then do a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Step 4: Thicken and Finish
Open the lid and give the stew a good stir. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth and stir this slurry into the stew. Switch the Instant Pot to Sauté and cook for 2 to 3 more minutes, letting the stew thicken into a cozy, rich texture that’s simply perfect.
How to Serve Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley sprinkled right before serving adds a lovely burst of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness that balances the stew’s rich flavors. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra pop if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This stew shines on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or flaky biscuits makes for an even more satisfying meal. A crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables on the side will add crunch and freshness to round out your dinner beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic touch, serve the stew in a hollowed-out bread bowl or over creamy mashed potatoes instead of on its own. You could even spoon it over buttered noodles to create a hearty one-pot comfort classic that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe develops even more depth as it sits, making leftovers nearly as good as fresh.
Freezing
This stew freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout, stirring occasionally. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more tender, while breasts offer a leaner option—choose whichever fits your preference.
Do I need to brown the chicken first?
Browning the chicken in the Sauté step adds extra flavor and keeps the meat juicy, but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step. The stew will still be delicious.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
Green beans, peas, or even chopped bell peppers can be added after pressure cooking to keep their fresh texture and added nutrition. Stir them in and let the residual heat warm them through.
Is this stew gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your chicken broth and tomato paste are labeled gluten-free to avoid any hidden sources.
Can I make this stew without an Instant Pot?
You can! Use a large pot or Dutch oven on the stove, sautéing ingredients and then simmering covered on low for about 45 minutes or until the chicken and vegetables are tender. The flavors will still be fantastic.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Quick to prepare yet full of rich, homey flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want to feel nourished and cozy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and time again. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to fall in love with stew all over again!
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Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (plus pressure build and release time)
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and hearty chicken stew made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Oil
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Thickening (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cold water
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the chicken chunks and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown slightly.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Mix in the chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to combine.
- Pressure Cook the Stew: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to Pressure Cook (Manual) mode on High pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle completes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken the Stew (if desired): Open the lid carefully and stir the stew. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix the cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl until smooth, then stir this slurry into the stew. Set the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the stew thickens.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot chicken stew into bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for a warm and satisfying meal.
Notes
- This stew stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for future meals.
- Feel free to add green beans or peas after pressure cooking for extra vegetables and texture.
- For richer flavor, consider using a combination of chicken thighs and breasts.
