If you’ve been searching for a cozy, comforting dinner that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked to tender perfection in a rich, savory gravy that wraps you in all the warmth of home-cooked goodness, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this recipe delivers satisfaction with its creamy texture and bold ranch-seasoned gravy that’s pure comfort on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: a handful of common ingredients that work together to create a dish bursting with flavor. Each element plays a key role, from the ranch seasoning that injects a tangy punch to the subtle garlic that rounds out the profile, making every spoonful a delight.
- 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless skinless): The star protein that stays juicy and tender in the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking magic.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid base that keeps the chicken moist and adds depth to the gravy.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Adds a zesty, herby kick that livens up the gravy and complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering the other flavors.
- Pepper to taste: A touch of heat to balance the creamy, rich gravy.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 teaspoon cold water: A simple slurry that thickens the gravy to a luscious consistency.
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix: The secret ingredient that brings a comforting, classic gravy flavor quickly and easily.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cooking Liquid
Start by whisking together the chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and pepper right in the Instant Pot. This simple mixture dissolves beautifully, creating a flavorful cooking bath that infuses the chicken with every bite.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Pressure Cook
Place the chicken breasts into the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the flavorful liquid—if needed, spoon some broth over the top. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This step locks in moisture and tenderness with the power of steam.
Step 3: Release Pressure
Once cooking is finished, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. This gentle decompression prevents the chicken from drying out. Then quick release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve to venting.
Step 4: Make the Gravy and Cut the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch and cold water together to form a slurry, then pour it into the hot cooking liquid along with the chicken gravy mix. Use the sauté function and stir constantly until the gravy thickens into a smooth, velvety sauce. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot to soak up that irresistible gravy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe piping hot, pairing it with your favorite sides. The chicken is tender, the gravy is rich and creamy, and the whole dish feels like a warm hug on a plate—ready to brighten any meal.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and a fresh note that balances the richness of the gravy beautifully. For added texture, crispy fried onions on top can give a satisfying crunch that elevates the dish even further.
Side Dishes
This dish shines when served alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up every drop of that luscious gravy. If you’re craving something lighter, fluffy steamed rice or roasted vegetables provide a nice contrast and keep the meal balanced and wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the chicken and gravy over a bed of buttery biscuits for a true southern-style comfort feast. Alternatively, serve it with warm crusty bread for dipping or tuck the chicken mixture inside a flaky puff pastry to make a handheld pot pie variant — perfect for impressing guests or switching things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, store any leftover Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish all week long with minimal effort.
Freezing
This dish also freezes wonderfully. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken and gravy gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of broth during reheating helps maintain the gravy’s perfect creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will remain tender and juicy, even more so than breasts, and will add a slightly richer flavor to the dish. Just adjust cooking time slightly if your thighs are larger or bone-in.
Is it necessary to use ranch seasoning mix?
While the ranch seasoning adds a fantastic tangy-herb flavor, you can substitute with your favorite seasoning blend. Just keep in mind that the ranch is what gives this recipe its signature taste.
Can I make the gravy without the chicken gravy mix packet?
Yes, you can make a homemade gravy using the cornstarch slurry and chicken broth, seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, and herbs. However, the packet provides convenience and a classic flavor that complements this recipe quite well.
Can this recipe be doubled or halved?
Definitely! The Instant Pot handles doubled recipes well, just ensure you don’t exceed the max fill line. Cooking times stay the same, but you might need a bit more broth and seasonings to keep flavors balanced.
What if I don’t have cornstarch on hand?
You can use all-purpose flour as a thickener instead. Mix it with a little cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the pot. Just give it a bit longer to cook on sauté to thicken properly.
Final Thoughts
Making this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe is like capturing the essence of classic comfort food with the modern convenience of pressure cooking. Every step is straightforward, and the results are so rewarding—tender chicken bathing in a creamy, flavorful gravy that feels like a warm kitchen hug. I truly encourage you to give it a try because once you do, it will surely become a cherished staple in your recipe rotation, ready to satisfy your cravings again and again.
Print
Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe is a quick and comforting meal featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful ranch-seasoned broth, finished with a rich and creamy chicken gravy. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a hearty, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (e.g., Hidden Valley)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pepper, to taste
Gravy Thickener and Mix
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cold water
- 1 packet chicken gravy mix
Instructions
- Prepare the broth mixture: Add the chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and pepper to your Instant Pot. Whisk thoroughly until all powders are dissolved to create a well-seasoned cooking liquid.
- Add and cook the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the broth. If needed, spoon some liquid over the chicken. Close the lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Release the pressure: Allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release the remaining pressure to unlock the lid safely.
- Make the gravy: Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the pot along with the chicken gravy mix. Press the “sauté” function and whisk continuously until the gravy mix dissolves and the sauce thickens, which takes a few minutes. When desired thickness is reached, turn off the sauté function by pressing “keep warm.” While the gravy thickens, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the pot, stirring to coat with gravy.
- Serve: Serve immediately. This dish is delicious over mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, pasta or egg noodles, or rice for a complete and comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is mostly submerged in the broth for even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Natural pressure release for 5 minutes helps tenderize the chicken without overcooking.
- Adjust pepper to your taste preference.
- Use the sauté function carefully to avoid burning the gravy; whisk constantly during thickening.
- This recipe pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes or noodles for a hearty meal.
