The Ultimate Guide to Making Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew: Quick, Easy, and Delicious

Looking for a meal that’s both comforting and convenient? This **Instant Pot Chicken Stew recipe** is your perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dinner. With its blend of simple ingredients and the magic of pressure cooking, you can have a savory and hearty chicken stew on the table in record time! Dive into tender chicken, wholesome vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth that will warm you from the inside out, making it an instant family favorite.

About This Instant Pot Chicken Stew

This **Instant Pot Chicken Stew** isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, designed for busy weeknights and chilly evenings. Simple, incredibly hearty, and bursting with robust flavors, it truly earns its title as a weeknight dinner hero. Imagine sinking your spoon into tender, succulent chicken pieces, perfectly cooked alongside a vibrant medley of classic stew vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, savory broth.

What sets this stew apart is its remarkable ease of preparation, thanks to the Instant Pot. This beloved appliance transforms what traditionally might be a long, slow cooking process into a fast, hands-off experience. With the entire recipe coming together in just one pot, you’re not only drastically cutting down on cooking time but also minimizing valuable prep and cleanup time. That means more moments spent enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

While the Instant Pot streamlines the process, we also provide clear instructions for a traditional stovetop method. So, whether you’re a pressure cooker pro or prefer the classic approach, a delicious, soul-satisfying chicken stew is well within reach. Serve generous bowls of this comforting stew with warm, crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich broth, and perhaps a glass of your favorite wine for an elevated yet effortless dining experience.

And here’s a little secret: this stew is even better the next day! As the flavors meld and intensify overnight, leftovers become a deeply satisfying treat, making this recipe an excellent candidate for meal prep. Cook a large batch on Sunday, and enjoy wholesome, flavorful meals throughout the week.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Crafting a truly memorable **Instant Pot Chicken Stew** begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish so comforting and delicious. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Oil: We recommend using either **canola oil** or **extra virgin olive oil**. These neutral oils are excellent for sautéing as they have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the other flavors in the stew. You could also use vegetable oil or grapeseed oil if preferred.
• Vegetables (Mirepoix): The foundation of almost any great stew or soup is the classic aromatic base, or mirepoix. For this recipe, you’ll need a combination of **sweet onion, celery, and carrots**. These humble vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness, building a foundational layer of flavor. Ensure they are diced evenly for consistent cooking.
• Garlic: A must-have for almost everything! **Minced garlic** adds a pungent, aromatic kick that is indispensable. We always keep a jar of minced garlic in the fridge for convenience, but fresh garlic, finely minced, offers an even brighter flavor profile.
• Chicken: The star of our stew! You’ll need approximately **1 1/2 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts**. Cutting them into 2-inch pieces ensures they cook quickly and remain tender without drying out. If you prefer a richer flavor and even more forgiving texture, **boneless skinless chicken thighs** are an excellent alternative and can be used in the same quantity.
• Tomato Paste: This concentrated ingredient is a secret weapon for adding deep, savory richness and a hint of umami to the stew. We highly recommend purchasing **tomato paste tubes** (like these) as they are incredibly convenient, allow you to use just what you need, and store easily in the fridge without wasting half a can.
• White Wine: A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is used for deglazing and adding a layer of sophisticated flavor. The alcohol cooks off, leaving behind a subtle complexity. If you prefer to omit alcohol, you can easily substitute the wine with an equal amount of **chicken stock or broth**, ensuring the stew remains flavorful.
• Chicken Stock or Broth: This is the liquid base of your stew. Use your favorite **chicken stock or broth**, whether homemade for ultimate flavor or a quality store-bought option. We recommend choosing a low-sodium variety when purchasing, as it gives you more control over the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Thyme: **Fresh thyme sprigs** are preferred for their vibrant, earthy aroma and flavor. Simply toss them into the Instant Pot, and they’ll infuse the stew beautifully. For an extra herbal note, you could also add a sprig of fresh rosemary. If fresh is unavailable, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
• Bay Leaves: Often underestimated, **bay leaves** contribute a subtle yet essential depth of flavor to the chicken stew, adding a hint of warmth and complexity. Remember to remove them before serving.
• Potatoes: For tender, satisfying chunks, we like to use **red potatoes** in this stew. Their waxy texture holds up well during pressure cooking. **Yukon Gold** potatoes are another excellent choice, offering a creamy texture, while **Russet potatoes** will break down a bit more, adding to the stew’s thickness. Cut them into roughly 3/4-inch chunks.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of **fresh parsley** at the end brightens the entire dish, adding a fresh, herbaceous element and a pop of color. Always use fresh herbs for the best finishing touch.
• Cornstarch Slurry: This is an optional but highly recommended component if you prefer a thicker stew. A **cornstarch slurry** is a simple mixture of cold water and cornstarch, used to thicken the broth to your desired consistency. It’s an easy way to achieve that classic, hearty stew texture.

Kitchen Tools for This Recipe

To whip up this delicious **Instant Pot Chicken Stew**, you’ll primarily need your trusty Instant Pot. We highly recommend models like the **Instant Pot Duo Crisp Ultimate Lid** for its versatility, doubling as an air fryer, or the reliable **Instant Pot Duo** or **Instant Pot Pro** for their pressure cooking prowess. Any 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot will work perfectly for this recipe.

Beyond the Instant Pot, a few other essential kitchen tools will make your preparation smooth and efficient:

• A **sharp chef’s knife** for easily dicing vegetables and chicken.
• A sturdy **cutting board** to protect your countertops.
• A **wooden spoon** for sautéing and stirring without scratching your Instant Pot’s inner pot.

If you opt for the stovetop method, you’ll need a **large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven** instead of the Instant Pot. These pots ensure even heating and sufficient space for all your delicious ingredients to simmer.

Here’s How to Make Your Perfect Pressure Cooker Chicken Stew

Making a hearty chicken stew in your Instant Pot is surprisingly simple, transforming a classic comfort food into a quick and convenient weeknight meal. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a rich and flavorful stew:

Preparing the Aromatics: Sweat Vegetables

The foundation of any good stew lies in its aromatic base. Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function on normal heat. Once the inner pot is hot, add your chosen oil (canola or olive oil work best). Allow the oil to shimmer slightly, then add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. This classic trio, known as mirepoix, is essential for building deep flavor. Sauté these vegetables until they begin to soften and become translucent, typically about 3 to 4 minutes. This “sweating” process releases their natural sugars and aromas without browning them too much. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly. Season the vegetables generously with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper at this stage to enhance their flavors. Finally, turn the Instant Pot off to prepare for pressure cooking.

The Pressure Cook Magic

Now it’s time to bring all the delicious components together. Add the chicken pieces, tomato paste, dry white wine, chicken stock, fresh thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir everything gently to ensure the tomato paste is well distributed and all ingredients are submerged in the liquid. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the sealing ring is properly in place and the vent is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and cook on High pressure for 10 minutes. This short pressure cooking time is all it takes to tenderize the chicken and cook the vegetables perfectly.

Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes (this means simply leaving the Instant Pot alone after it beeps). This natural release helps prevent the chicken from drying out and ensures the pressure drops safely. After 5 minutes, you can carefully turn the vent to “Venting” for a quick manual release of any remaining pressure. Once the float valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.

At this point, you can choose to serve the stew as is for a lighter broth, or proceed to thicken it. Before serving or thickening, remember to remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs, then stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of vibrant color and flavor!

Perfecting the Consistency: Thicken, If Desired

For those who prefer a richer, thicker stew, a simple cornstarch slurry is all you need. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and a small amount of cold water until a smooth, lump-free paste forms. Set your Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function. Pour the cornstarch slurry into the stew, stirring continuously to incorporate it evenly. Allow the stew to simmer for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. The stew will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Once thickened, remove the bay leaves (if you haven’t already), stir in the fresh parsley, and do a final taste test. Adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or other dried herbs if needed. Your delicious, perfectly thickened **Instant Pot Chicken Stew** is now ready to be served and enjoyed!

Tips and Variations for Your Instant Pot Chicken Stew

While this **Instant Pot Chicken Stew** recipe is fantastic as is, there are many ways to customize it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some tips and variations to help you make it truly your own:

• Taste and Season to Perfection: Always taste your stew after it cooks and before serving. The saltiness of chicken stock can vary, so you might need to add more salt or pepper. This is also the perfect time to adjust other seasonings. Perhaps you want a touch of heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Craving more depth? A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can work wonders. Feel free to experiment with dried herbs like basil, oregano, marjoram, or a blend of Italian herbs to further customize the flavor profile.
• Cut Everything the Same Size: This seemingly small detail makes a big difference. Cutting your vegetables and chicken into roughly the same size (e.g., 2-inch pieces for chicken, 3/4-inch for potatoes, and similar dices for carrots/celery/onion) ensures even cooking. This uniformity not only guarantees every component is perfectly tender but also makes for a more pleasant eating experience, allowing you to get a little bit of everything in each spoonful.
• Make it Creamier: For an extra luxurious and creamy texture, stir in about 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half after the stew has finished cooking and you’ve thickened it (if desired). This addition will create a wonderfully rich and velvety broth that takes the comfort factor up a notch. For a dairy-free creamy option, consider using full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
• Add More Vegetables: The beauty of stew is its versatility. Feel free to toss in other hearty vegetables during the pressure cooking step. Green beans, corn kernels, peas, parsnips, turnips, or even bell peppers can add more nutrition and flavor. If adding quick-cooking vegetables like peas or spinach, stir them in after the pressure cooking is complete and allow them to heat through in the warm stew.
• Brown the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): While the Instant Pot allows you to cook raw chicken directly, browning the chicken pieces on the sauté setting before adding other ingredients can add an extra layer of savory depth and a beautiful golden color. Simply sauté the chicken in a bit of oil until lightly browned on all sides, then remove it from the pot before proceeding with the vegetables.
• Experiment with Proteins: Not limited to chicken! This recipe base can be adapted for other proteins. Diced turkey breast or thighs work perfectly. For a heartier beef stew, consider using stewing beef, though you might need to adjust the pressure cooking time (typically longer, around 20-25 minutes).
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of warmth, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even some chili powder along with the other seasonings.

More comfort food favorites: Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu| Instant Pot Pot Roast | Tuscan White Bean Soup | Rigatoni Al Forno

FAQ: Your Instant Pot Chicken Stew Questions Answered

Got questions about making this delicious and easy **Instant Pot Chicken Stew**? We’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries to help you master this comforting recipe:

What size Instant Pot is needed to make this recipe?

This recipe is perfectly suited for either a **6-quart or an 8-quart Instant Pot**. Both sizes will comfortably accommodate the ingredients for a single batch. If you plan to double the recipe, an 8-quart pot is essential to prevent overfilling. Remember, you can also prepare this versatile stew on the stovetop in a large Dutch oven if you don’t have an Instant Pot!

Can I use different vegetables in the stew?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable to your preferences and what’s in season. You can easily swap out or add different vegetables. For potatoes, consider **sweet potatoes** for a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, or even other root vegetables like **parsnips or turnips**. For squashes, **butternut squash or delicata squash** can add a wonderful creamy texture and earthy flavor. Additionally, feel free to incorporate **green beans, corn kernels, peas, or zucchini** towards the end of the cooking process (or after pressure cooking for quicker-cooking veggies) to maintain their texture and freshness. Just remember to cut any new additions to a similar size for even cooking.

Can you put raw chicken in the Instant Pot without searing it first?

Yes, you can absolutely put raw, boneless chicken directly into the Instant Pot without searing it first! This is one of the conveniences of pressure cooking – it thoroughly cooks the chicken while keeping it tender and juicy. While searing can add an extra layer of flavor and color (which you can do on the sauté setting if you wish), it’s not strictly necessary for safety or taste in this recipe, making cleanup even simpler.

How can I thicken the stew after cooking?

If you prefer a thicker, more robust stew, a cornstarch slurry is your best friend. After the stew has finished pressure cooking, ensure the Instant Pot is set to “Sauté” mode. In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of cold water and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this slurry directly into the simmering stew, stirring constantly. Let it gently simmer for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the stew reaches your desired consistency. Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving!

Can I make a double batch of this recipe?

Yes, you can certainly double this recipe, but with an important caveat: you must be using an **8-quart Instant Pot**. A 6-quart Instant Pot does not have enough capacity to safely accommodate a double batch, as overfilling can prevent proper pressurization and be a safety hazard. When doubling, ensure all ingredients are increased proportionally and maintain the same cooking time, as the pressure cooking time is determined by the density of the food, not its quantity.

Can I make this stew vegetarian or vegan?

While this recipe features chicken, it can absolutely be adapted for a vegetarian or vegan diet. Simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like extra potatoes, chickpeas, lentils, or firm tofu (added after pressure cooking). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock, and ensure your white wine is vegan-friendly (if using). For a creamy finish, opt for coconut milk or a plant-based cream.

What kind of bread pairs well with stew?

The best bread for stew is one with a good crust and a soft interior, perfect for soaking up the rich broth. Think crusty sourdough, a rustic baguette, a hearty whole-grain loaf, or even simple rolls. Toasted bread adds an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Need some inspiration for using the Instant Pot? Check out my Instant Pot recipes page!

What to Serve with Instant Pot Chicken Stew

This **Instant Pot Chicken Stew** is a complete meal in itself, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more delightful:

• Crusty Bread: Toasted slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette are essential for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. The contrast of the soft interior and crispy crust is simply perfect.
• Fresh Herbs: A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, chives, or even a few delicate thyme leaves just before serving adds a burst of fresh flavor and a beautiful pop of color, elevating the presentation.
• Green Salad: A simple, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich and hearty stew.
• Rice or Quinoa: For an even more substantial meal, serve the stew over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or protein-rich quinoa. This is particularly good if you’re looking to stretch the meal further or prefer a less “soupy” consistency.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts can add more texture and nutrients, complementing the flavors of the stew.

How to Store and Reheat Your Instant Pot Chicken Stew

This **Instant Pot Chicken Stew** is not only delicious freshly made but also fantastic as leftovers. Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come:

• Store: Allow any leftover stew to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and meld beautifully overnight, making it taste even better the next day!
• Reheat: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can gently reheat larger quantities on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking, until piping hot. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water while reheating to thin it to your desired consistency.
• Freeze: While you technically can freeze this stew, we generally recommend against it if you’re particular about vegetable texture. The freezing and thawing process can sometimes make the potatoes and other vegetables a bit mushy. However, if you don’t mind a softer texture, store room-temperature stew leftovers in a freezer-safe, airtight container for up to 3 months. Leave a little headspace in the container to allow for expansion.
• Thaw: To thaw frozen stew, simply transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat according to the instructions above.

More Comforting Soup and Stew Recipes

If you’ve fallen in love with the warmth and ease of this **Instant Pot Chicken Stew**, you’ll surely enjoy these other comforting soup and stew recipes from our collection:

• Creamy Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup: This incredibly versatile soup can be made on the stovetop, in the slow cooker, or right in your Instant Pot. It’s a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for autumn evenings.
• Classic tomato soup gets made even easier with this Instant Pot Tomato Soup recipe. Plus, it includes a ton of variations to make it creamy, spicy, or even incorporate roasted vegetables for deeper flavor.
• If you love a hearty bowl of chili, check out my comprehensive list of cozy chili recipes to warm up with. From classic beef to vegetarian options, there’s a chili for every craving.

Finally, if you make this **Instant Pot Chicken Stew recipe**, **please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment!** I genuinely love to hear when you all make recipes, and I make it a priority to respond to every single comment. Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy these dishes too.

Feel free to drop any questions below, whether about ingredients, cooking methods, or serving suggestions!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! I absolutely love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!