Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken
Why make this recipe
Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken is a fantastic meal that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and salsa with tender chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights because it cooks quickly and is super simple to make. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward!
How to make Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken
Making this dish is easy and requires just a few steps. You will love how quickly and effortlessly it comes together in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken breast
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sauté until lightly browned for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Add salsa on top of the chicken, then place the cream cheese on top.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure.
- Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, then stir it back into the creamy sauce.
- Serve with chopped cilantro as garnish and enjoy!
How to serve Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken
You can serve this dish over rice, pasta, or even in tacos. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. The creamy sauce adds a wonderful touch to whatever you choose!
How to store Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to make Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken
- Make sure to brown the chicken well for extra flavor.
- Feel free to add other spices or herbs you like, such as cumin or paprika.
- You can adjust the amount of salsa depending on how spicy you want the dish.
- Serve with your favorite toppings like cheese or avocado for a delightful twist.
Variation
You can use thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful option. For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can replace cream cheese with sour cream or any cheese you prefer, though it might affect the dish’s creaminess.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Instant Pot Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and add olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and sauté until lightly browned for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Add salsa on top of the chicken.
- Place the cream cheese on top of the salsa.
- Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks, then stir it back into the creamy sauce.
