How to Cook Frozen Chicken in the Instant Pot — Everything You Need to Know

The Instant Pot® is a game-changer for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen. Its ability to cook chicken directly from frozen, without thawing, is one of its most impressive features.

Meat, such as chicken or even salmon, can be cooked straight from the freezer in the Instant Pot. This is because pressure cookers, like the Instant Pot, heat food quickly and safely. Unlike slow cookers, which can leave frozen food in the danger zone for too long, the Instant Pot ensures your food reaches a safe temperature fast.

The Instant Pot is the best way to cook frozen chicken while keeping it juicy and tender. So, the next time chicken is on sale, stock up and freeze it for future meals. Keep reading for our expert tips on cooking frozen chicken in the Instant Pot.

Steps to Cook Frozen Chicken Breasts in the Instant Pot

What You'll Need:

• An Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Frozen chicken breasts
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Other desired seasonings

1. Place your frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot inner pot. If you're cooking multiple breasts, make sure they’re spaced out for even cooking. If they’re stuck together, submerge them in cool water until they thaw just enough to separate.
2. Pour one cup of chicken broth into the pot.
3. Season the chicken with your preferred spices or herbs. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing mode.
4. Press the "manual" or "pressure cook" button and set it to high pressure for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts.
5. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for at least 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing or shredding to allow the juices to redistribute.

Creative Ways to Cook Frozen Chicken in the Instant Pot

1. Instant Pot Crispy Barbecue Chicken Wings

Make delicious homemade wings in under an hour, starting with frozen chicken. This recipe makes it simple: "Skip the wait and make chicken wings in an Instant Pot. Whether frozen or thawed, they come out perfectly with your favorite barbecue sauce."

2. Instant Pot Effortless Buffalo Chicken Dip

"Got frozen chicken and craving buffalo chicken dip? No worries—just pop the frozen chicken breasts into an Instant Pot, and in just 30 minutes, you're ready to serve," says the recipe.

3. Instant Pot Salsa Chicken

"The Instant Pot makes meal prep a breeze! Frozen chicken breasts are cooked with taco seasoning and salsa to create a quick, flavorful Mexican-inspired dish," shares the recipe. "This versatile chicken can be used in tacos, burrito bowls, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. So many ways to enjoy!"

4. Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

"Super simple, and all you need is one Instant Pot—no cleanup required! From frozen to fully cooked in just 30 minutes. Pair it with baked beans or your favorite side for the perfect meal," says this recipe.

5. Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta

A review of this recipe notes, "I was impressed by how tender and juicy the chicken turned out, especially since it was my first time cooking frozen chicken in the electric pressure cooker."