Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal that comes together quickly, this Instant Pot Chicken and Cannellini Bean dish is perfect for you. Packed with spices, tender chicken, and creamy elements, it’s a dish that satisfies without taking hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and how to create this delicious meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Olive oil
– Minced fresh garlic
– Onion, chopped
– Chicken broth, divided
– Boneless, skinless chicken breast
– Cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– Green chilies, chopped
– Cumin, ground
– Chili powder
– Cayenne pepper
– Salt
– Cream cheese, softened
– Fresh cilantro, chopped
Prep Time
About 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including pressure build-up)
Yield: Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Select the Sauté setting on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Then, add the onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and yellow, about 5 minutes. Press Cancel when done.
2. To prevent a burn notice, add ½ cup of chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the beans, green chilies, chicken, cumin, salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and the remaining chicken broth to the Instant Pot.
4. Close the lid, lock it, and turn the Steam Release to the Sealing position.
5. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting. Choose High Pressure and set the time to 12 minutes. It will take about 15 minutes to reach the pressure cooking stage.
6. Once finished, turn the Steam Release valve to the Venting position and allow the steam to fully vent. Open the lid when the float valve drops.
7. Carefully remove the chicken to a cutting board or bowl and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
8. Add the softened cream cheese and cilantro. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted.
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken and Cannellini Beans packed with flavor and comfort!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Select the Sauté setting on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil and allow it to heat. Then, add the onion and minced fresh garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and yellow, about 5 minutes. Press Cancel when done.
Step 2: Deglaze the Pot
To prevent a burn notice, add ½ cup of chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the cannellini beans, green chilies, boneless and skinless chicken breast, cumin, salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and the remaining chicken broth to the Instant Pot.
Step 4: Prepare for Pressure Cooking
Close the lid, lock it, and turn the Steam Release to the Sealing position.
Step 5: Set Pressure Cooking Time
Select the Manual or Pressure Cook setting. Choose High Pressure and set the time to 12 minutes. It will take about 15 minutes to reach the pressure cooking stage.
Step 6: Release the Pressure
Once finished, turn the Steam Release valve to the Venting position and allow the steam to fully vent. Open the lid when the float valve drops.
Step 7: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken to a cutting board or bowl and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
Step 8: Add Cream Cheese and Cilantro
Add the softened cream cheese and fresh cilantro. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined.
Notes
Note 1: Adjust Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the level of cayenne pepper and chili powder according to your spice preference.
Note 2: Shredding Chicken
Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before shredding. It should break apart easily without much resistance.
Note 3: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Note 4: Garnish Options
Consider garnishing the final dish with more fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, olive oil is heated in the Instant Pot before adding onion and garlic, allowing them to soften and develop flavor.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the process of adding liquid to a pan to loosen and dissolve the browned bits of food stuck to the bottom. This is done after sautéing by adding chicken broth and scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking uses steam pressure to cook food quickly and evenly. Once the ingredients are added, the lid is sealed, and the cooking time is set. The high pressure ensures that the chicken cooks thoroughly in a short time.
Shredding
Shredding involves pulling apart cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. This can be accomplished with two forks or by hand, creating a texture that absorbs sauces and flavors well.
Incorporating
Incorporating is the method of blending ingredients together until they are fully combined. In this recipe, cream cheese and cilantro are added at the end and stirred until the cream cheese is melted, creating a creamy sauce.
FAQ
Can I substitute olive oil with another type of oil?
Yes, you can use other oils like vegetable oil or canola oil, but olive oil adds a distinct flavor.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
You can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier option, though the texture and flavor may change slightly.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
To make it milder, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and chili powder. For extra heat, you can increase these spices or add fresh jalapeños.
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken breast?
Yes, canned chicken can be used for convenience, but it may change the texture of the final dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This recipe combines tender chicken with the creaminess of cheese and the warmth of spices, making for a hearty and flavorful dish. The use of cannellini beans adds a nutritious element, while fresh cilantro brightens the overall flavor. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Use the shredded chicken mixture as a filling for soft or hard taco shells. Top with avocado, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
White Chicken Chili
Serve the creamy chicken over cooked rice or quinoa to create a filling white chicken chili. Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Pair the chicken with cilantro lime rice. Cook rice with lime juice and zest, mixing in fresh cilantro once cooked for a bright side dish.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the shredded chicken with quinoa or rice, stuff into hollowed bell peppers, and bake until the peppers are tender for a delicious and visually appealing meal.
Chicken Bean Soup
Add more broth and vegetables to the mixture and simmer for a comforting soup option, perfect for chilly days.
Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Incorporate cooked pasta into the chicken mixture, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until bubbly for a cozy and satisfying casserole dish.
