If you’re craving a meal that wraps you in a warm, comforting hug, this Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth bursting with herbaceous notes, it’s a hearty dish that comes together in no time thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this stew promises not only delicious flavors but also the ease of minimal prep and quick cooking, making it a true family favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a cooking pot with four stages of a stew. The first section displays raw pieces of light pink chicken at the bottom of the pot. The second section shows the pot filled with light brown small round potatoes and green peas layered over the chicken. The third section captures the pot with orange slices of carrots and a yellowish broth starting to appear, and wooden spoon stirring the mix. Finally, the last section shows the stew fully cooked with light brown cooked chicken pieces on top, surrounded by the orange carrot slices, light brown potatoes, and a thick yellow broth. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this dish are simple, accessible, and each one plays an important role in building the stew’s delightful layers of flavor and texture. Fresh vegetables add color and natural sweetness, chicken provides a tender, juicy protein base, and herbs along with broth bring everything together in a savory symphony.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds a subtle fruitiness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs offer extra juiciness, while breasts give a leaner option, both absorb flavors wonderfully.
Onion: Adds essential aromatic depth and sweetness once softened.
Garlic: Packs a punch of savory warmth and enhances the overall complexity.
Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
Celery: Contributes subtle flavor and a tender crispness after cooking.
Potatoes: Cubed for heartiness and to soak up the stew’s delicious broth.
Chicken broth: The rich base that infuses moisture and savory notes throughout.
Dried thyme: Offers a floral, earthy touch that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant piney aroma that elevates the stew’s character.
Bay leaf: Imparts a subtle herbal complexity during cooking.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
Cornstarch mixed with water (optional): A quick slurry to thicken the stew for a luscious finish.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

First, set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, add the cubed chicken and lightly brown it on all sides. This step locks in juices and develops flavor, but don’t worry about cooking it through; you’ll finish it in the next steps. After browning, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Into the same pot, toss in diced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these ingredients until they soften and release their wonderful aromas. This base creates depth and sweetness, the foundation for your stew’s rich taste.

Step 3: Combine Everything and Add Seasonings

Return the browned chicken to the pot, then add cubed potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Sprinkle in dried thyme, rosemary, and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Give everything a gentle stir, ensuring ingredients are well distributed beneath the broth.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Stew

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. This short but powerful cooking time makes the chicken wonderfully tender and the vegetables perfectly soft while melding all the flavors harmoniously.

Step 5: Release Pressure and Finish

Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes—this gradual release helps keep meats tender. Then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. Remove the bay leaf, and if you prefer a thicker stew, stir in the cornstarch slurry while on Sauté mode until the broth coats the ingredients luxuriously.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy chicken soup, showing chunks of white chicken pieces, bright orange carrot slices, and small green peas all mixed in a light creamy broth. A yellow-handled spoon is scooping the soup, held by a woman's hand, and the bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a yellow cloth with white dots beside it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme leaves brightens the dish and adds a fresh herbal contrast to the rich broth. For extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and tang.

Side Dishes

This Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread for soaking up every savory drop. Alternatively, serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a simple green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic presentation, serve stew in deep, wide bowls with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Or try layering over creamy polenta or fluffy rice to make the meal even heartier and visually inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers should be cooled to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this stew will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully. Pour cooled stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a comforting future meal.

Reheating

Reheat leftover Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave a portion, just be sure to cover and stir halfway through so it heats evenly without drying out the chicken or vegetables.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine, but keep in mind that thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender after pressure cooking. If using breasts, be careful not to overcook to avoid dryness.

Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add frozen peas, green beans, or even corn after pressure cooking for a fresh vegetable boost. Just stir them in and let the residual heat warm them through.

Can I make this stew gluten-free?

Definitely. This Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and avoid any wheat-based thickeners. The cornstarch slurry is a great gluten-free option to thicken the stew.

What if I don’t have dried herbs?

Fresh herbs can be used as a substitute but reduce quantities since fresh herbs are more potent. You could also leave them out, and your stew will still taste delicious, just cleaner and simpler.

How do I adjust this recipe for a larger crowd?

This recipe scales up easily. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly but be sure not to fill your Instant Pot beyond the maximum fill line. You might need to cook in batches or use a larger pressure cooker if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of Instant Pot Chicken Stew Recipe—quick to make, rich in flavor, and full of wholesome comfort. Whether you’re seeking an easy weeknight dinner or a soul-warming dish to share, this stew is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfying taste of homemade goodness with half the effort!