Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy Recipe

If you love cozy comfort meals made effortlessly, this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy belongs at the center of your table. Tender, juicy chicken is nestled in a rich, savory gravy — all in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove or in the oven. The flavors meld beautifully under pressure, so what you end up with is that classic, homey taste with none of the fuss. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Instant Pot pro, this recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights and Sunday suppers alike.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy is how simple but crucial every ingredient is. Each one has a role to play, from building deep, meaty flavor to ensuring the most spoonable, silky sauce. Here’s what you need to gather:

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Use boneless, skinless cuts for quicker cooking and maximum tenderness.
• Chicken broth: Brings moistness and a savory depth to the finished gravy.
• Butter: Adds rich flavor and helps form a glossy, luxurious sauce.
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Flavor boosters that keep the recipe streamlined while adding aromatic intensity.
• Dried thyme: Provides herbal warmth that brightens the sauce without overpowering the chicken.
• Poultry seasoning: A shortcut to that classic roasted-chicken taste.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every bite just right.
• Cornstarch (or flour): Thickens the gravy to that perfect, spoon-coating consistency.
• Milk or cream (optional): Swirl in for an even silkier, more decadent gravy if you like.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry with paper towels for the best browning. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and poultry seasoning. This not only flavors the chicken, but also helps season the gravy as it simmers in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté for Flavor

Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and melt the butter. Place the seasoned chicken in the pot and let it sear for a couple of minutes on each side. You’re not fully cooking it here; just unlocking those delicious golden bits on the bottom, which will give the gravy so much more depth.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in your chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits clinging to the bottom (this step prevents the dreaded ‘burn’ warning, and it’s the secret to flavorful gravy!).

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid, set your Instant Pot to manual high pressure, and cook the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes. When the time is up, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then finish with a quick release to let out the rest of the steam. The chicken will be gorgeously tender and fully infused with flavor.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside. Mix a slurry using cornstarch (or flour) and a little water, then whisk it into the simmering broth. Let the sauce bubble on ‘Sauté’ mode until thickened, then stir in a splash of milk or cream if you’re after a richer finish. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then nestle the chicken right back in to keep warm.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme goes a long way in making this dish look as inviting as it tastes. For a pop of color and a little extra freshness, add a grind of black pepper or even a dusting of smoked paprika over the top right before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely begs for something to soak up all that luscious gravy. Fluffy mashed potatoes are a classic, but steamed rice, egg noodles, or even crusty bread work beautifully as well. Feel free to add a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, for balance and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style vibe, serve Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy straight from the pot at the table and let everyone help themselves. If you want a little more flair, try spooning it over split buttermilk biscuits or stuffing the saucy chicken into toasted rolls for a Southern-inspired sandwich.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen even more as they sit, making this dish just as crave-worthy for lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, spoon cooled chicken and gravy into freezer-safe containers or zip bags. It will freeze beautifully for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the chicken and gravy on the stovetop or using the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk as needed to loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy recipe?

Yes, you can start with frozen chicken breasts or thighs! Just add an extra 3-4 minutes to the pressure cook time. Skip the searing step, but be aware your gravy may be a bit thinner, so thicken before serving if needed.

Can I swap chicken breasts for thighs, or use bone-in chicken?

Absolutely. Thighs stay even juicier, and bone-in chicken delivers incredible flavor, though you might need a few more minutes of pressure cooking. Always check the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

How can I make this Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy dairy-free?

Use a plant-based butter for sautéing, and leave out the milk or cream at the end. The gravy will still be deliciously rich thanks to the broth and chicken juices.

What if I don’t have poultry seasoning?

No problem! Swap in Italian seasoning, or make your own blend with a mix of dried sage, rosemary, and a pinch of nutmeg and black pepper. It will still add that comforting, herby flavor.

How do I make the gravy extra smooth?

After thickening, strain the gravy through a fine mesh sieve for a silky result, or blend it directly in the pot with an immersion blender before returning the chicken to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy yet, you’re in for a treat. This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort, and it never fails to bring that special home-cooked touch to the table. Gather your favorite people and dig in—the comfort food magic is real!

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