Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken (Instant Pot)
This Lemon Herb Mediterranean Chicken is a zesty, herbaceous dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy, while fresh ingredients like lemon and parsley add vibrant flavor. It’s a healthy, protein-packed meal your family will love.
Equipment
- Equipment and Appliances
- Instant Pot (Recommended: Instant Pot Duo 6 Qt.)
- Zester or Microplane
- Citrus juicer
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Sauté:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
Liquid Base:
- 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional Garnish:
- ½ cup pitted olives
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
- Season with some sea salt, black pepper, some dried oregano and ofcourse thyme.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add olive oil.
- Sear the fresh chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each of the two sides until they acquire a light brown color. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
- Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze.
Step 4: Add Lemon Flavor
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Place the chicken breasts back into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
- Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release the remaining pressure.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the chicken and drizzle with juices from the pot. Garnish with fresh parsley, olives, or crumbled feta.
- Serve with your choice of rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 1g
Notes
Tips and Tricks
For Best Results: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a vibrant, tangy flavor.
Make It a One-Pot Meal: Add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes before pressure cooking.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days if need be or placed in the deef freezer for up to 3 months.
For Best Results: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for a vibrant, tangy flavor.
Make It a One-Pot Meal: Add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes before pressure cooking.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days if need be or placed in the deef freezer for up to 3 months.