Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Chicken :A Deliciously Easy Comfort Dish

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can have this dish on the table in under 30 minutes.

• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup makes this a win-win.

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy, cheesy goodness.

• Nutritious: Loaded with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Once hot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Season the Chicken: While the aromatics cook, season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the Instant Pot and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until slightly golden.

5. Add Broth and Cook: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the bottom of the pot is deglazed. Cancel sauté mode, close the lid, and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes.

6. Quick Release: Once the cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release of the pressure.

7. Add Broccoli and Cream: Open the lid and add fresh broccoli florets and heavy cream. Close the lid and let the residual heat cook the broccoli for about 5 minutes.

8. Incorporate Cheese: Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in the cornstarch slurry.

9. Serve: Spoon the creamy broccoli cheese sauce over the chicken and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• With Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the cheesy sauce.

• Low-Carib Option: Pair with cauliflower rice or enjoy as is for a keto-friendly meal.

• Pasta Twist: Toss the cheesy sauce with cooked pasta for a Broccoli Cheese Chicken Pasta.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, you can substitute fresh broccoli with frozen. Add it directly to the pot after pressure cooking, and let it warm through for about 5-7 minutes.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness to the dish.

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when incorporating the cheese for an extra kick.

Q4: Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove top over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your chicken broth and cornstarch are labeled gluten-free.

Tips for Success

• De glaze the Pot: Always de glaze after sautéing to avoid the "burn" warning.

• Cheese Choices: Use sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.

• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Adding it after pressure cooking ensures it stays crisp-tender.

This Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Chicken is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and hearty. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a comforting meal that’s sure to become a household favorite!