Some evenings just call for something hearty but effortless. This Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers hits that spot perfectly—with tender chicken mingling with colorful bell peppers and a rich blend of Italian spices. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Last week, after a particularly hectic day, I rushed home craving comfort without the fuss. As soon as the Instant Pot hissed to life, the kitchen filled with the scent of garlic and paprika—one of those moments where the stress just begins to melt away. The sizzling of chicken meeting the hot oil, followed by the sweet aroma of bell peppers softening, was a sensory reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. When the timer finally beeped, I lifted the lid and was greeted by a colorful, fragrant mix that looked as good as it smelled. Sitting down to that meal, I felt a quiet satisfaction—simple ingredients, big flavor, all ready in a flash.
- Ready in just over 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Bright bell peppers bring color and natural sweetness.
- Italian seasonings and smoked paprika add depth without extra effort.
- One-pot cooking means minimal cleanup afterward.
- Flexible enough to pair with rice, pasta, or enjoy on its own.
If you’re worried about juggling time or complicated steps, this recipe really streamlines dinner without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the leftovers keep beautifully, making lunch a breeze the next day.
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Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A quick and flavorful Instant Pot recipe featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with colorful bell peppers, onions, and Italian seasonings. Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the Instant Pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Return the browned chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and tomato paste until smooth. Pour this mixture into the Instant Pot and stir to combine all ingredients.
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Select ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ mode and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
When the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and stir the chicken and peppers. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
FAQ
Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely. Feel free to swap in your favorites like zucchini or mushrooms to customize the dish.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly? It’s best fresh or refrigerated for up to three days, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? You can adapt this to a stovetop skillet with a bit more attention to cooking times and moisture.
How spicy is this dish? It’s mild, with smoky paprika adding warmth rather than heat. Add chili flakes if you want a kick.
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients here are naturally gluten-free.
When you’re ready to enjoy a quick, wholesome dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Instant Pot Chicken and Peppers is waiting for you. Give it a try, and let your weeknight routine feel a little brighter.