Cooking chicken in the Instant Pot is a total game-changer, especially when you’re short on time or forgot to thaw your chicken. Whether you’re wondering how long to cook frozen chicken in the Instant Pot or searching for the best chicken Instant Pot recipes, this list has you covered.
From juicy chicken breast Instant Pot recipes to hearty meals like frozen chicken Instant Pot rice, these ideas are perfect for pressure cooking frozen chicken with ease. Learning how to cook frozen chicken in the Instant Pot is simple, and it’s the fastest way to defrost chicken and turn it into dinner without a hitch.
So, grab your pressure cooker and let’s dive into these Insta Pot chicken recipes frozen-friendly meals that are perfect for busy nights!
1. Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
This one’s a hit in our home every time! Creamy, flavorful, and packed with spices, this chicken tikka masala is perfect for those cozy dinners. Plus, you don’t have to defrost the chicken—just toss it in frozen! Trust me, you won’t even miss takeout with this recipe. It’s great with naan or rice.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 35 minutes (includes pressure time)
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cups tomato puree
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and melt the butter. Add onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté till soft.
- Add garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and chili powder. Stir till fragrant.
- Toss in the frozen chicken, tomato puree, and salt. Close the lid and pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Release pressure manually, remove the chicken to shred, then stir in yogurt and cream. Return the chicken and mix well.
- Serve hot with rice or naan.
2. Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken
Lemon and garlic just do magic together! This dish is light but flavorful, and it’s perfect when you want something that feels fresh and easy.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté garlic in olive oil on the Instant Pot.
- Add chicken broth, thyme, and frozen chicken thighs. Layer lemon slices on top.
- Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Do a quick pressure release, and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve with veggies or pasta.
3. Instant Pot Butter Chicken
This butter chicken recipe is all about that rich, velvety sauce. It’s not spicy, so the kids love it too! I like making it when I want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup plain yogurt
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp garam masala
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in butter using the Instant Pot.
- Add garam masala, cumin, and paprika. Stir until fragrant.
- Add frozen chicken, tomato puree, and salt. Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Quick release pressure, stir in cream and yogurt, and shred the chicken if desired.
- Serve over rice or with naan.
4. Instant Pot Chicken Biryani
Biryani feels fancy, but this recipe makes it so simple! The Instant Pot does all the work for you, layering the chicken and rice with those classic spices. A one-pot wonder for sure.
Servings: 4-5
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed
- 4 frozen chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 4 cardamom pods
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Sauté onion in oil on the Instant Pot until golden. Add spices and stir.
- Add tomatoes, yogurt, and frozen chicken. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Layer rinsed rice on top and pour in chicken broth. Don’t stir.
- Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes, then let it release naturally for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve with raita.
5. Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
This one’s a crowd-pleaser and SO easy. Pulled chicken smothered in BBQ sauce is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even just on its own. Great for weeknights or game days!
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (halal)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add frozen chicken, BBQ sauce, broth, and spices to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Quick release the pressure, shred the chicken, and mix it back into the sauce.
- Serve on buns with coleslaw or pickles.
6. Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken dish is a family favorite. The honey and garlic combo is so simple, yet so good. It’s perfect over rice or noodles for a quick dinner.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs
- ½ cup honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup soy sauce (halal)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients except cornstarch slurry to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Quick release, then stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over rice or steamed veggies.
7. Instant Pot Chicken Curry
This chicken curry is warm, comforting, and super easy to make. It’s packed with spices but isn’t overpowering, so it’s perfect for the whole family. Serve it with rice, and you’ve got a wholesome meal ready in no time.
Servings: 4-5
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp oil
Instructions:
- Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger in oil using the Instant Pot.
- Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cumin, and cook for 1 minute.
- Add frozen chicken, tomatoes, broth, and salt. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Quick release, stir in coconut milk, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with rice or naan.
8. Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
This teriyaki chicken is sticky, sweet, and oh-so-delicious. It’s perfect over steamed rice or noodles, and the kids love it! Plus, it’s made with simple pantry ingredients.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- ½ cup soy sauce (halal)
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions:
- Add frozen chicken, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and broth to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Quick release, remove chicken, and stir in cornstarch slurry to thicken sauce.
- Return chicken to the pot, coat well, and serve over rice.
9. Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This one’s a creamy, cheesy delight! Chicken Alfredo pasta is a lifesaver on busy nights because it’s a complete meal in one pot. And the best part? Everyone asks for seconds!
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add frozen chicken, broth, cream, pasta, garlic, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 8 minutes.
- Quick release, remove chicken to shred, then stir in Parmesan cheese.
- Return chicken to the pot, mix well, and serve hot.
10. Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup
This soup is hearty, comforting, and perfect for chilly nights—or when someone in the family’s feeling under the weather. It’s also a great way to use simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.
Servings: 4-5
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot. Give it a gentle stir.
- Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Quick release, shred the chicken, and stir it back into the soup.
- Serve with crusty bread.
11. Instant Pot Chicken Enchiladas
Enchiladas in the Instant Pot? Yup, you heard me right! This recipe makes tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for stuffing into tortillas. Top with cheese and bake for a few minutes, and you’ve got a fiesta on your plate.
Servings: 4-5
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (halal)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 8-10 tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, or cilantro
Instructions:
- Add frozen chicken, enchilada sauce, broth, chili powder, and cumin to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Quick release, shred the chicken, and mix it back into the sauce.
- Fill tortillas with chicken mixture, roll them up, and place in a baking dish.
- Top with more sauce and cheese, then bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
12. Instant Pot Chicken Fajitas
Fajitas are such a fun and easy dinner, and the Instant Pot makes them even simpler. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, and the peppers and onions soak up all those yummy spices. Perfect for a DIY taco night!
Servings: 4-5
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas for serving
Instructions:
- Add frozen chicken, broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Quick release, remove chicken, and shred.
- Add peppers and onions to the pot and use the sauté function for 3-5 minutes.
- Return chicken, mix well, and serve in tortillas.
13. Instant Pot Chicken and Potato Stew
This stew is hearty, comforting, and loaded with flavor. The chicken and potatoes cook together beautifully, making it the perfect one-pot meal for busy nights.
Servings: 4-5
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot and stir gently.
- Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
- Quick release, shred the chicken if desired, and stir to combine.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
14. Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma
This chicken shawarma is bursting with Middle Eastern spices and is so easy to make in the Instant Pot. Serve it with pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot.
- Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Quick release, shred the chicken, and mix it with the sauce.
- Serve in pita bread with veggies and tahini sauce.
15. Instant Pot Creamy Tuscan Chicken
This creamy Tuscan chicken is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a special dinner. The sun-dried tomatoes and spinach add a pop of color and taste, making it feel a little fancy.
Servings: 4
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 frozen chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Add frozen chicken, broth, and garlic to the Instant Pot. Pressure cook on high for 12 minutes.
- Quick release, remove chicken, and stir in cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Parmesan. Use the sauté function for 3-5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Add spinach, stir until wilted, and return the chicken.
- Serve over pasta or mashed potatoes.
With these Instant Pot recipes, cooking frozen chicken becomes a breeze, even on the busiest of days. Whether you’re trying to figure out how to cook frozen chicken in the Instant Pot or just need fresh ideas for chicken Instant Pot recipes, this guide has everything you need.
The beauty of the Instant Pot is its versatility—it can boil frozen chicken, pressure cook frozen chicken, or even whip up hearty meals like frozen chicken Instant Pot rice in no time. No need to stress about defrosting chicken; with the Instant Pot, you can cook frozen chicken breast directly and still get tender, juicy results.
From figuring out how long to cook frozen chicken in the Instapot to creating flavorful pressure cooker chicken breast recipes, you’ve now got the tools and tips to make mealtime a success. Whether you’re new to instant pot frozen chicken recipes or a seasoned pro, these dishes will save you time while satisfying your taste buds.
So next time you’re staring at a block of frozen chicken and wondering what to do, just remember—you can cook frozen chicken in the Instant Pot without skipping a beat. Explore the endless possibilities with these instant pot chicken ideas and make dinner a snap every single time!
