12 Quick and Healthy Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights don't have to mean sacrificing healthy meals. With the Instant Pot, you can whip up delicious, nutritious dishes in no time. Here are 12 easy recipes that save you time and keep your weeknight dinners satisfying and wholesome.

Quick And Flavorful Chicken Tacos For Busy Nights

When time is tight, chicken tacos come to the rescue! These quick and tasty tacos are perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that everyone will love. The image shows delicious chicken tacos topped with fresh tomatoes and cilantro, served with lime wedges for that extra zing.

Using an Instant Pot makes the cooking process even faster. You can have tender, juicy chicken ready in no time. The combination of spices and fresh toppings makes these tacos a hit at the dinner table.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the chicken breasts.
2. Sauté: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add olive oil and let it heat up. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
3. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Release Pressure: Once done, carefully release the pressure. Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
5. Assemble Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a pan. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Savory One-Pot Beef Stroganoff Ready In Minutes

Beef stroganoff is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to busy weeknights. This one-pot recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor. Picture tender strips of beef simmered with mushrooms in a creamy sauce, served over a bed of egg noodles. It’s a meal that feels indulgent without the fuss.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. With the Instant Pot, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, making it a favorite for families. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot!

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how you can whip up this delicious beef stroganoff in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add a bit of oil and brown the beef strips for about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Add onions and mushrooms to the pot, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Once done, quick release the pressure. Stir in the sour cream until well blended.
6. Cook the egg noodles separately according to package instructions. Serve the beef stroganoff over the noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.

Hearty Vegetable Soup Packed With Nutrition

This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a perfect choice for busy weeknights. It's not only easy to make in your Instant Pot, but it's also loaded with nutrients. The vibrant colors of the vegetables make it visually appealing, while the rich flavors will warm you up on any chilly evening.

The soup features a mix of fresh vegetables like carrots, spinach, and beans, all simmered together in a savory broth. The addition of herbs adds a delightful aroma and taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those servings of veggies!

Pair this soup with some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s filling, healthy, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those hectic evenings when you want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic, thyme, and oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cannellini beans. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Once done, carefully release the pressure. Stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and enjoy with crusty bread!

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Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs In No Time

When you're short on time but still want a delicious meal, these Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs are perfect. The image shows juicy chicken thighs, beautifully seared and topped with fresh lemon slices and herbs. A side of vibrant broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition, making this dish both appealing and healthy.

This recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. The lemon and garlic create a bright, zesty sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. Plus, using an Instant Pot means you can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 cup broccoli florets

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for another 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
5. While the chicken cooks, steam the broccoli until tender.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with the sauce drizzled on top and a side of broccoli. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Flavorful Vegetarian Chili For A Quick Meal

Vegetarian chili is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, packed with nutrients, and full of flavor. The image shows a vibrant bowl of chili, brimming with colorful beans, corn, and spices, topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh cilantro. Surrounding the bowl are crunchy tortilla chips, perfect for dipping.

This dish is not only quick to prepare in an Instant Pot, but it also warms you up on chilly evenings. With a mix of beans, vegetables, and spices, it’s a complete meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

Here’s how to whip up this delicious vegetarian chili:

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Sour cream for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. Once done, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy with tortilla chips on the side!

Speedy Sweet And Sour Chicken For A Quick Fix

Sweet and sour chicken is a classic dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying. The vibrant colors of the peppers and pineapple make it visually appealing, and the combination of sweet and tangy flavors is sure to please everyone.

The Instant Pot makes this dish super easy to prepare. You can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, and you have a complete meal that feels special without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cups cooked rice, for serving
• Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add vegetable oil and let it heat up.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the bell peppers and pineapple chunks. Mix well.
4. In a small bowl, combine sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
5. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 5 minutes.
6. Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid carefully.
7. Stir the chicken and sauce mixture to combine. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with green onions and cilantro.

Delicious Instant Pot Risotto With Fresh Herbs

Risotto is a classic dish that can seem intimidating, but with the Instant Pot, it becomes a breeze! This creamy risotto is packed with fresh herbs, making it a delightful choice for busy weeknights. The image shows a bowl of perfectly cooked risotto, garnished with vibrant green herbs and a sprinkle of cheese. The warm, inviting colors of the dish make it look incredibly appetizing.

Using the Instant Pot not only saves time but also locks in flavors, ensuring that every bite is rich and satisfying. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a cozy night in!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then the chopped onion. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and Arborio rice. Stir for 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
3. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer until mostly absorbed.
4. Add vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Once done, quickly release the pressure. Open the lid and stir in Parmesan cheese, parsley, and basil.
6. Adjust seasoning if needed, and serve warm, garnished with extra herbs and cheese if desired.

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Simple Pulled Pork Sliders For A Crowd-Pleaser

These pulled pork sliders are perfect for any gathering. They are easy to make and packed with flavor. The image shows a delicious spread of sliders, each piled high with tender pulled pork and topped with crunchy coleslaw. The soft, golden buns are inviting, making them a hit for any crowd.

To make these sliders, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The combination of spices and a quick cook in the Instant Pot ensures the pork is juicy and full of flavor. Serve them with pickles and your favorite barbecue sauce for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds pork shoulder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 12 slider buns
• 2 cups coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup coleslaw dressing

Instructions

1. Season the Pork: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pork shoulder.
2. Cook the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in the Instant Pot. Pour in the barbecue sauce and add 1/2 cup of water. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Allow for a natural release.
3. Shred the Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the pot and mix it with the sauce.
4. Prepare the Slaw: In a bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with coleslaw dressing. Toss until well coated.
5. Assemble the Sliders: Cut the slider buns in half. Place a generous amount of pulled pork on the bottom half, top with coleslaw, and cover with the bun top.
6. Serve: Enjoy these sliders warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side!

Spicy Instant Pot Jambalaya For Cajun Flavor

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This Spicy Instant Pot Jambalaya is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavors that will transport you straight to Louisiana. The combination of shrimp, sausage, and rice creates a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make.

The vibrant colors in the dish are just as enticing as the flavors. You’ll see juicy shrimp, slices of sausage, and bright red peppers all mingling together. Fresh herbs add a pop of green, making it visually appealing too. Serve it up in a bowl, and you have a meal that looks as good as it tastes!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, and once hot, toss in the sausage. Cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften.
3. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well.
4. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release. Open the lid and gently fold in the shrimp.
6. Let it sit for a few minutes until the shrimp are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Tasty Instant Pot Beef And Broccoli For Quick Asian Cuisine

Beef and broccoli is a classic dish that brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. Using an Instant Pot makes it quick and easy, perfect for those busy weeknights. The tender beef paired with crisp broccoli and a savory sauce is sure to please everyone at the table.

This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Broccoli adds a healthy crunch, while the beef provides protein. Plus, making it in the Instant Pot means less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.

Let’s get started with the ingredients and steps to whip up this tasty meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Sauté: Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add vegetable oil and let it heat up. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir well. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, do a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid and add the broccoli florets.
5. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this into the pot and let it cook on sauté mode for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve: Serve the beef and broccoli over cooked rice. Enjoy your quick and tasty meal!

Sweet And Spicy Instant Pot Bbq Ribs For A Family Feast

Picture a plate of tender, juicy ribs slathered in a rich, sweet, and spicy BBQ sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The Instant Pot makes it easy to whip up these ribs in no time, ensuring that your family can enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle.

The ribs are coated in a flavorful sauce that balances sweetness with just the right amount of heat. Served alongside cornbread and coleslaw, this meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, the Instant Pot locks in moisture, making the meat incredibly tender.

Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family with this easy and satisfying recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Cook the Ribs: Place the ribs in the Instant Pot, standing them up if necessary. Pour half of the sauce over the ribs, reserving the other half for later.
4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before quick releasing the remaining pressure.
5. Glaze the Ribs: Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the ribs to a baking sheet, brush with the reserved sauce, and broil for 5-7 minutes until caramelized.
6. Serve: Slice the ribs and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Quick And Easy Instant Pot Fajitas For Flavorful Nights

Instant Pot fajitas are a fantastic way to bring vibrant flavors to your busy weeknights. This dish combines juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and zesty spices, all cooked quickly in your Instant Pot. The image showcases a delicious plate of fajitas, with tender chicken pieces mixed with red, yellow, and green peppers, garnished with fresh cilantro. Soft tortillas sit nearby, ready to wrap around this tasty filling.

This recipe is not only quick but also customizable. You can swap out the chicken for beef or even make it vegetarian with mushrooms or tofu. Serve with your favorite salsa and lime wedges for an extra kick!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Tortillas, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and let it heat up.
2. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add the chicken strips to the pot, followed by chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Open the lid carefully.
6. Stir the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve in warm tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.

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