Instant Pot Spring-Thyme Chicken Stew is a light and refreshing take on classic comfort food, perfect for welcoming the warmer months. This stew combines tender chicken with fresh spring vegetables like carrots, peas, and baby potatoes, all simmered in a fragrant broth infused with thyme and lemon. The Instant Pot makes this dish quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal in no time. The bright flavors of thyme and lemon bring a touch of spring to each spoonful, making this stew both comforting and uplifting. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Sear the Chicken:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the Instant Pot and sear on all sides until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Vegetables and Broth:
- Stir in the sliced carrots, halved baby potatoes, and fresh thyme.
- Return the seared chicken to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Pressure Cook:
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Finish the Stew:
- Open the Instant Pot and stir in the frozen peas, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the Spring-Thyme Chicken Stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve with crusty bread on the side.
Enjoy your fresh and comforting Instant Pot Spring-Thyme Chicken Stew, a perfect meal for a light and flavorful dinner!
