Easy Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken Recipe
Welcome to our kitchen, where simplicity meets flavor! Today, we’re excited to share with you our Easy Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken Recipe, a delightful twist on a classic Southern favorite. With tender chicken, savory ranch seasoning, tangy pepperoncini peppers, and a hint of rich au jus gravy, this dish is sure to become a new staple in your meal rotation. Best of all, it’s made effortlessly in the Instant Pot, cutting down on prep time without sacrificing taste. Get ready to savor every bite of this comforting and delicious dish!
INGREDIENTS TO MAKE mississippi CHICKEN RECIPE:
By combining these simple ingredients, you’ll create a delicious and easy recipe that’s sure to be a hit with family.
- Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless): Chicken breasts are lean cuts of poultry meat that are tender and versatile. For this recipe, we’ll use approximately 4 pounds, which is roughly equivalent to 3 large chicken breasts.
- Pepperoncini Peppers (Banana Peppers) and Juice: Pepperoncini peppers add a subtle heat and tanginess to the dish. You’ll need 12 pepperoncini peppers along with 1/4 cup of juice from the jar to infuse the chicken with flavor.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: Ranch seasoning mix is a blend of herbs and spices typically used to make ranch dressing. It adds a savory and herby flavor profile to the chicken, enhancing its taste and aroma.
- Au Jus Gravy (Seasoning Packet): Au jus gravy seasoning is a dry mix made from beef broth, herbs, and spices.
- Onion (minced): Onions are aromatic vegetables that provide a sweet and savory flavor base for many dishes.
- Butter (Unsalted): Butter adds richness and creaminess to the dish, creating a luscious sauce to coat the chicken.
Time needed: 20 minutes
- Saute the Onions:
Start by melting the unsalted butter in the Instant Pot using the “Saute” function.
Once the butter is melted, add the minced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Seasonings:
Next, add the ranch and au jus seasoning packets, and the 12 pepperoncini peppers. Also, add 1/4 cup of pepperoncini juice from the jar. Stir well to combine with the onions and butter. - Add in the Chicken Breast:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. - Start the Pressure Cooker:
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Be sure there is at least 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth in the bottom of the pressure cooker. This amount is necessary for the cooker to be able to produce enough steam.
Select the “Pressure Cook Button” or “Manual” setting on the pressure cooker, and adjust the cooking time based on the weight of the chicken. For 1 pound of chicken breasts, pressure cook for 4 minutes. For each additional pound of chicken, add 1 minute to the cooking time. For example, if you have 5 pounds of chicken, pressure cook for 8 minutes. Pressure cooker under high pressure for the appropriate amount of time.
Once the cooking cycle is complete allow for natural pressure release for 5 minutes. Then carefully perform a quick release of any remaining pressure. - Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot and use a fork to shred the juicy chicken directly in the pot, allowing it to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Serve the Pressure Cooker Mississippi Chicken hot over cooked white rice or creamy garlic mashed potato.
Garnish with additional pepperoncini peppers on top of the chicken if desired. Enjoy!
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Increase the pressure cooking time by 50% to ensure the chicken cooks through completely.
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware that thighs may require a slightly longer cook time due to their higher fat content.
If you don’t have au jus gravy seasoning, you can substitute with beef broth or beef bouillon cubes. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt and herbs as needed.
Sautéing the onions before pressure cooking helps to soften them and release their flavor into the dish. It also adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
Yes, you can adjust the amount of pepperoncini peppers to suit your taste preferences. Use fewer peppers for a milder flavor or add more for extra tanginess and heat.
To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure to use enough liquid in the Instant Pot. The combination of butter, pepperoncini juice, and chicken juices creates a flavorful sauce that keeps the chicken moist and tender.
PRO COOKING TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
By following these pro cooking tips, you’ll elevate your chicken dinner to restaurant-quality status!
- Sear the Chicken Before Pressure Cooking: For an extra boost of flavor, consider searing the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot using the sauté function before pressure cooking. Searing caramelizes the surface of the chicken, adding depth and richness to the dish. It also helps lock in moisture, ensuring the chicken remains tender and juicy during pressure cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: While the recipe provides specific measurements for ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, and pepperoncini peppers, don’t hesitate to adjust these seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Taste the seasoning mixture before adding the chicken and make any necessary adjustments. You can add more ranch seasoning for extra tanginess or more pepperoncini peppers for a spicier kick.
- Use Natural Release for Tender Chicken: After pressure cooking, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 5 minutes before performing a quick release. This gradual release of pressure helps prevent the chicken from becoming tough and allows it to remain tender and juicy. The natural release also gives the flavors in the pot a chance to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Shred Chicken for Maximum Flavor Absorption: Once the pressure cooking is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the Instant Pot. Shredding the chicken allows it to soak up the flavorful sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Plus, shredded chicken has a more tender and succulent texture compared to whole chicken breasts. Mix the shredded chicken well with the sauce before serving to ensure even distribution of flavor.
WHAT CAN I SERVE WITH INSTANT POT MISSISSIPPI CHICKEN?
Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. For a classic Southern-inspired feast, serve the easy chicken recipe alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice to soak up the savory au jus gravy. For added freshness and crunch, consider adding a crisp green salad tossed with tangy vinaigrette or a medley of steamed vegetables such as green beans, carrots, and corn. Cornbread or dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments, providing a comforting contrast to the flavorful and slightly spicy chicken.
WHAT ARE RECIPE SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS?
By incorporating these substitutions, variations, and cooking methods, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste,
- Protein Substitutions: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even bone-in chicken. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken pieces with pork loin or beef chuck roast for a different twist on the classic recipe.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: For a vegetarian or vegan version, you can substitute the chicken with plant-based alternatives such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
- Crock Pot Method: To make Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken, follow similar steps and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. This method allows for a longer, slower cooking process, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken.
- Low Carb Option: To keep this recipe low carb, serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or mashed potatoes.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with different levels of spiciness by adjusting the amount of pepperoncini peppers used. For a milder flavor, reduce the number of peppers, or for a spicier kick, add extra peppers or include some of the seeds.
HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER MISSISSIPPI CHICKEN?
To store leftover Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, there are a few options: for small portions, you can microwave the chicken until heated through, ensuring to stir it occasionally to promote even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat larger portions in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the chicken from drying out. Another option is to reheat the chicken in the oven by placing it in a baking dish covered with foil and baking at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Whichever method you choose,
HOW CAN LEFTOVER CHICKEN BE FROZEN AND REHEATED?
To freeze leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Leftover chicken dinner tastes the next day after allowing all flavors to meld together. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers or bags with the date of freezing for easy reference. Frozen Mississippi Chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When reheating frozen Mississippi Chicken, there are a couple of methods you can use. One option is to thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it using the methods mentioned earlier, such as microwaving, skillet, or oven. Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen chicken directly from the freezer by placing it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Freezing and reheating leftovers allows you to enjoy this easy meal at a later time with minimal effort.
LOOKING FOR MORE INSTANT POT RECIPES? TRY THESE!
20-Minute Instant Pot Buttered Chicken: This quick and convenient chicken recipe brings the rich and aromatic essence of Indian cuisine to your table with minimal effort. Succulent pieces of chicken bathed in a velvety tomato-based sauce, generously seasoned with a blend of spices, promise to tantalize your taste buds in record time.
Easy Instant Pot Pepperoni Pizza Casserole with Pasta Recipe: This savory masterpiece, expertly crafted in the Instant Pot for efficiency, marries the beloved flavors of pepperoni pizza with the heartiness of pasta. Imagine tender pasta enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce, adorned with the bold kick of pepperoni slices, and generously smothered in gooey melted cheese.
Pressure Cooker/Instant Pot White Bean Soup: This Pressure Cooked White Bean Soup (Pasulj) is made with smoked ham hocks, vegetables, and spices. It’s a hearty and delicious soup the whole family will enjoy. Like with many bean soups, you can’t rush the process when making this on the stove.
Easy Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker
Ingredients
- 4 lbs. Chicken Breasts boneless skinless (about 3 Large Breasts)
- 12 Pepperoncini Peppers and 1/4 cup juice from the jar
- 1 ounce Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1 ounce Au Jus Gravy (seasoning packet)
- 1 Onion minced
- 1/2 cup Butter (unslated)
- 1/2 cup Water or Chicken Broth (optional)
Instructions
- Start by melting the unsalted butter in the Instant Pot using the “Saute” function.
- Once the butter is melted, add the minced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, stirring occasionally.
- Next, add the ranch seasoning mix, au jus seasoning, and the 12 pepperoncini peppers along with 1/4 cup of the juice from the jar. Stir well to combine with the onions and butter.
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the Instant Pot, ensuring they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position. Be sure there is at least 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth in the bottom of the pressure cooker. This amount is necessary for the cooker to be able to product enough steam.
- Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting on the Instant Pot, and adjust the cooking time based on the weight of the chicken. For 1 pound of chicken breasts, pressure cook for 4 minutes. For each additional pound of chicken, add 1 minute to the cooking time. For example, if you have 5 pounds of chicken, pressure cook for 8 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot and use a fork to shred the chicken directly in the pot, allowing it to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Serve the Instant Pot Mississippi Chicken hot over cooked white rice or creamy garlic mashed potatoe. Garnished with additional pepperoncini peppers if desired. Enjoy!