Easy Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken

I love making Easy Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken when my kids come home from school, and the buttery garlic aroma fills the kitchen. Last week, I served Lemon Garlic Chicken for friends, and everyone raved about the bright lemon flavor. I often pair Lemon Garlic Chicken with roasted veggies, garlic bread, buttery rice, fresh salad, or Best Protein-Packed Egg Bites in muffin tins, and it tastes amazing. Just yesterday, I prepped Lemon Garlic Chicken after work, and it made dinner feel cozy and special.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

INGREDIENTS NOTES

• Chicken breasts: These are the main protein in this dish. They cook quickly and stay juicy when cooked right.
• Olive oil: Used to cook the chicken and garlic, adding flavor and keeping the meat from sticking.
• Garlic: Adds a strong, delicious smell and taste that makes the chicken very tasty.
• Lemon juice: Makes the chicken taste fresh and slightly tangy.
• Lemon zest: The yellow part of the lemon skin adds extra lemon flavor without the sourness.
• Dried oregano: A herb that gives the chicken a warm, earthy flavor.
• Salt: Brings out all the flavors in the chicken and makes it taste better.
• Black pepper: Adds a little bit of spice and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• Paprika: Gives the chicken a gentle red color and a smoky, mild taste.
• Chicken broth: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds more flavor when cooking.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and makes the sauce creamy and smooth.
• Fresh parsley: A fresh herb to sprinkle on top at the end, adding color and a mild flavor.

How to make Easy Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken?

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help them cook evenly and get a little golden color when seared. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set them aside.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is warm but not smoking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side without moving them. Flip them carefully using tongs and cook for another 5-6 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown and almost cooked through.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan around the chicken. Stir it for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, or it will taste bitter.

Step 5: Make Lemon Sauce

Add lemon juice, lemon zest, chicken broth, and butter to the pan. Stir everything gently, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This becomes a flavorful sauce for the chicken.

Step 6: Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the lemon garlic sauce for 5-7 minutes. This will make the chicken tender and allow the flavors to soak in.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a serving plate. Pour the remaining lemon garlic sauce over the top. Sprinkle fresh parsley on the chicken for color and a fresh taste.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or a spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Small bowl
• Grater or zester
• Paper towels

Storage Options

Lemon Garlic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat with a little bit of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Some Variations for Lemon Garlic Chicken

• Herb Variation: Add fresh thyme or rosemary along with parsley for a stronger herb flavor.
• Spicy Variation: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for a small kick.
• Creamy Variation: Stir in 1/4 cup cream or sour cream to the sauce for a creamy texture.
• Vegetable Variation: Add broccoli, carrots, or zucchini to the pan to cook with the chicken for a one-pan meal.
• Chicken Cut Variation: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat that stays tender even longer.

FAQ

What is Lemon Garlic Chicken made of?

It is made of chicken breasts, garlic, lemon juice and zest, olive oil, butter, chicken broth, and simple spices like oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. Fresh parsley is used for garnish.

What does Lemon Garlic Chicken taste like?

It tastes tangy, buttery, and savory. The lemon makes it bright and fresh, the garlic gives it a strong aromatic flavor, and the butter adds richness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used. They are juicier and slightly more flavorful, but may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

How do I store leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in a pan with a little broth to keep it moist.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini. Cook them in the pan along with the chicken or steam them separately.