This Instant Pot chicken and broccoli recipe features tender chicken pieces and crisp broccoli in a savory soy-ginger sauce. Quick, healthy, and easy to make, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep and pairs well with rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Chicken and Broccoli

3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 lb (450 g) broccoli florets

Sauce

¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
¾ cup (180 ml) water or beef stock

Slurry and Garnish

1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Instant Pot: Add chicken, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and sesame oil to the pot. Stir to combine.
Pressure cook: Close the lid and set the vent to sealing. Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 3 minutes. Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure and carefully open the lid.
Thicken the sauce: Select the “Sauté” function. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens. If needed, prepare and add an additional slurry for desired consistency.
Steam the broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the pot, cover with the lid, and let steam for 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Serve: Plate over cooked rice and garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot chicken and broccoli recipe delivers tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a flavorful sauce, all cooked in minutes. It’s a convenient, healthy weeknight meal that pairs perfectly with rice.

Tips

Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Use fresh ginger for a more vibrant flavor.
Don’t overcook broccoli; steam briefly for tender-crisp texture.
Adjust soy sauce or sugar to taste depending on your preferred flavor balance.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or turkey breast.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Sauce: Use tamari for gluten-free, or add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Rice alternatives: Serve with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or brown rice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but slightly increase the pressure cooking time and ensure chicken is fully thawed or in smaller pieces.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the sauce ingredients and store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

How do I prevent broccoli from overcooking?
Add broccoli after pressure cooking and use the steaming method for just a few minutes.

Serving

Serve over steamed white or brown rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Suggestions

Pair with a side of steamed dumplings or egg rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Add a drizzle of sriracha or hoisin sauce for extra flavor.
Use leftover chicken and broccoli in stir-fries or fried rice for quick lunches.