Introduction
Discover a delightful and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion! This Instant Pot chili combines tender chunks of chicken with bold flavors from various salsas and beans, creating a hearty meal that is sure to please everyone. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients, this chili can be enjoyed on its own or with your favorite toppings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
– 1 cup red salsa
– 1 cup green salsa (salsa verde)
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
– 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 2 (15-ounce) cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
– 1-2 cups chicken broth (adjust based on desired consistency)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (including pressure release)
Yield: 6 servings
Embrace the ease of one-pot cooking with this Instant Pot chili recipe. Enjoy the convenience and flavors of a delicious meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function.
Step 2: Heat Olive Oil
Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add 1 medium diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Add 1 pound of cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cook the chicken until no longer pink.
Step 5: Turn Off Sauté Function
Turn off the sauté function once the chicken is cooked.
Step 6: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in 1-2 cups of chicken broth. Use 1 cup for a thicker chili or 2 cups for a soup-like consistency.
Step 7: Add Beans
Add 2 (15-ounce) cans of drained and rinsed Great Northern beans.
Step 8: Incorporate Seasoning and Salsas
Stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning, 1 cup of red salsa, 1 cup of green salsa (salsa verde), 1 (4-ounce) can of diced green chiles, 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, and 1 (6-ounce) can of tomato paste.
Step 9: Mix Ingredients
Thoroughly mix all the ingredients to ensure an even distribution.
Step 10: Secure Instant Pot
Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the vent is closed.
Step 11: Set Cooking Time
Set the Instant Pot to manual pressure cook for 15 minutes.
Step 12: Natural Pressure Release
After cooking, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes.
Step 13: Manual Pressure Release
Manually release any remaining pressure after the natural release time.
Step 14: Serve Chili
Open the lid carefully, stir the chili, and serve hot.
Notes
Storage
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
This chili freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Adjusting Spice Level
To increase spiciness, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier salsa.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, olive oil is heated in the Instant Pot before adding diced onions and minced garlic. This process helps to develop flavor and soften the vegetables.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking uses steam and high pressure to cook food quickly. In this recipe, the Instant Pot is set to manual pressure cook for 15 minutes, significantly reducing cooking time compared to traditional methods. This technique locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in tender chicken and rich chili.
Combining Ingredients
Combining ingredients refers to mixing various components to create a cohesive dish. In this recipe, once the chicken and initial ingredients are cooked, all remaining items, including beans, salsas, and spices, are added and thoroughly mixed. This ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
Natural Pressure Release
Natural pressure release allows the pressure inside the Instant Pot to decrease gradually after cooking. In this recipe, allowing 10 minutes of natural release helps to enhance the flavors and allows for better texture, as the ingredients continue to cook slightly even after the heat is turned off.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you may need to increase the cooking time. Consider cooking on manual pressure for 20-25 minutes if using frozen chicken.
What can I substitute for Great Northern beans?
You can substitute Great Northern beans with other white beans like cannellini beans or navy beans. Alternatively, you can use black beans or pinto beans for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this chili vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth. You can also replace the chicken with a plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the chili?
To adjust the spiciness, you can use mild salsa and omit the diced green chiles or choose spicier salsas. You can also add fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper for additional heat.
Is this chili suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this chili is great for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.
Conclusion
This flavorful chili made in the Instant Pot is a perfect combination of zesty salsas, tender chicken, and hearty beans. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own, or paired with your favorite toppings and sides. The quick cooking time and vibrant flavors make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Chili Variations
Consider adding corn for a touch of sweetness and extra texture. You could also substitute the chicken with turkey or lean beef for a different flavor profile.
Topping Ideas
Top your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or avocado for added creaminess and flavor. Crunchy tortilla chips or crispy bacon bits can also add an interesting contrast.
Side Dish Pairings
Serve your chili with warm cornbread or tortilla wraps for a fulfilling meal. A fresh green salad can complement the richness of the chili.
Craving Something Spicy?
If you like your chili on the hotter side, add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix before serving.
Slow Cooker Adaptation
This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply sauté the onions and garlic, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Meal Prep Option
Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal later. The flavors often deepen and improve after freezing, making it taste even better upon reheating.
