Name: Instant Pot Chicken Stew
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 carrots, sliced 3 celery stalks, chopped 2 cups baby potatoes, halved 1 teaspoon salt; 5 teaspoon black pepper; 5 teaspoon dried thyme; 5 teaspoon dried rosemary 2 tablespoons tomato paste 4 cups chicken broth 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional)

Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, this Instant Pot Chicken Stew is everything comfort food should be. Packed with tender chicken, chunky vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a weeknight dinner dream that comes together with ease. The Instant Pot makes it especially quick, locking in all the rich flavors in a fraction of the time compared to stovetop versions.

Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something nourishing, this stew is incredibly versatile. You can adapt it with your favorite seasonal vegetables, and it freezes beautifully for future meals. Whether served with crusty bread or spooned over mashed potatoes, this stew brings rustic coziness to your table.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this stew. They remain tender and juicy under pressure. However, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner option.

Ingredients for the Instant Pot Chicken Stew

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
2 cups baby potatoes, halved
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

How To Make the Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Add olive oil, then sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Add the chicken chunks and sear them until lightly browned on all sides. You don’t need to cook them through — just a good sear for flavor.

Step 3: Layer the Veggies

Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Stir everything to combine.

Step 4: Pour in Broth & Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir well to dissolve the paste.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to Pressure Cook (or Manual) on high for 10 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.

Step 6: Optional Thickening

If you prefer a thicker stew, switch back to the Sauté setting and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

How to Serve and Store Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread, biscuits, or a scoop of rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this stew gluten-free?

It’s easy! Just ensure your chicken broth and tomato paste are certified gluten-free, and skip the cornstarch or use a gluten-free thickener.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Green beans, sweet potatoes, or peas can be added. Just make sure they’re cut to cook evenly.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but you’ll need to add extra cook time (about 15 minutes total under pressure) and skip the searing step.

Is this stew spicy?

Not at all. It’s herbaceous and savory, but not spicy. You can add red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Can I double the recipe?

As long as your Instant Pot has enough capacity, doubling works great. Keep the cooking time the same.

Want More Cozy Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this Instant Pot Chicken Stew hit the spot, you’ll definitely want to try these other comforting recipes:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for those chilly nights when you need something warm and comforting.

And when you give it a go, drop a comment below! Did you try it with extra veggies? Maybe a dash of hot sauce? I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Questions? Bring them on!

For more daily dishes, check out my Pinterest page here.

Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A warm, hearty Instant Pot Chicken Stew filled with tender chicken, potatoes, and vegetables in a savory herb broth. Perfect for cozy dinners and ready in a flash thanks to pressure cooking.