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If you’ve ever stood in the kitchen at 6 PM, staring blankly at your fridge, wondering what quick dinner you can throw together that’s both delicious and satisfying — Instant Pot Chicken Tenders might just be your new secret weapon.
Whether you’re feeding picky kids, prepping lunchboxes, or need a lean, protein-rich meal fast, this Instant Pot Chicken Tenders recipe delivers juicy results with minimal effort. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting — no need for deep frying or long oven times. Plus, it’s one of the easiest ways to ensure perfectly cooked chicken tenders every time.
Using the Instant Pot to cook chicken tenders not only locks in moisture but also slashes your cooking time. In under 20 minutes, you’ll have a plate of tender, seasoned chicken ready to serve with veggies, rice, salad, or even in wraps.
Let’s dive into the easiest, most foolproof method to make Instant Pot Chicken Tenders that are flavorful, juicy, and versatile enough for any mealtime.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of chicken tenders
These are lean, quick-cooking cuts that are perfect for the Instant Pot. You can also use sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts if tenders are unavailable. - 1 tablespoon olive oil
Helps enhance the flavor of the seasonings and prevents sticking. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Infuses the tenders with a mild garlicky aroma and depth. - 1 teaspoon onion powder
Balances out the garlic with a mild, savory sweetness. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Adds a warm, smoky flavor and a beautiful reddish hue. - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Gives a herby touch to round out the flavor profile. - 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Essential for bringing out the flavors. - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Adds mild heat and depth. - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
Creates the steam needed for pressure cooking and adds flavor if using broth. - Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
Adds umami richness if you want a bolder flavor profile.
How To Make Instant Pot Chicken Tenders: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure seasonings stick well. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
2. Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken tenders and rub to coat all sides evenly.
Pro Tip: For even deeper flavor, let the seasoned chicken marinate for 15–30 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours if you have the time.
3. Add Liquid to the Instant Pot
Pour 1 cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot insert. This liquid is crucial for generating steam and avoiding a burn warning.
Optional: Add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the liquid for a flavor boost.
4. Place Chicken in the Pot
Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on the trivet or directly in the liquid, depending on whether you want them slightly steamed (on trivet) or more simmered (in liquid).
5. Pressure Cook
- Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
- Select Pressure Cook (or Manual) on High Pressure for 4 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle ends, allow 5 minutes of natural pressure release, then do a quick release to release remaining steam.
Important: Overcooking can dry out the tenders. Stick to the 4-minute cook time and 5-minute natural release for juicy results.
6. Optional Sauté for Color
Want a little browning? After pressure cooking, remove the chicken and use the Sauté mode for 2–3 minutes per side to give them a golden finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice or serve whole. Use in wraps, on salads, with pasta, or pair with steamed veggies and rice.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Tenders
- Use Fresh or Thawed Chicken: Avoid frozen chicken unless you adjust the cooking time. Frozen tenders need 6–7 minutes on high pressure.
- Layer of Flavor: Try marinating in buttermilk for 30 minutes before seasoning for extra tenderness.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t pile chicken on top of each other; even layering helps cook evenly.
- Deglaze if Needed: If browning beforehand, deglaze the pot with broth to prevent a burn warning.
Serving Suggestions
- With Veggies: Serve alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots.
- Over Grains: Pair with quinoa, brown rice, or mashed potatoes.
- In Wraps: Slice and roll into tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and ranch.
- For Meal Prep: Store cooked tenders in meal containers with rice and sautéed veggies for a week of easy lunches.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce before cooking.
- BBQ Style: Mix a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce into the broth for a sweet-smoky flavor infusion.
- Lemon Herb: Use lemon juice and zest with thyme and parsley for a fresh, zesty twist.
- Crispy Finish: After pressure cooking, coat in seasoned breadcrumbs and bake at 425°F for 10 minutes to crisp up.
- Vegan Option: Use tofu or tempeh slices instead of chicken and reduce cook time to 2 minutes with a quick release.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the Instant Pot?
Yes, but increase cooking time to 6–7 minutes and ensure tenders are not stuck together.
Do I need to use a trivet in the Instant Pot?
It’s optional. Cooking directly in broth gives more flavor, while using a trivet results in a steamed texture.
Can I double Instant Pot Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! Just don’t stack tenders too high and keep the same cooking time.
How to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
What internal temperature should chicken be?
Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C).
Substitutes & Ingredient Alternatives
- Chicken tenders → Use sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Olive oil → Swap with avocado oil or melted butter for a richer flavor.
- Smoked paprika → Try chipotle powder or regular paprika if you want less smoke.
- Chicken broth → Water + bouillon cube or vegetable broth works just as well.
- Oregano → Substitute with thyme, Italian seasoning, or herbs de Provence.
- Soy sauce → Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free and soy-free alternative.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: ~320mg (varies based on broth and added salt)
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Tenders Recipe is the ultimate busy-day lifesaver. It’s quick, juicy, and incredibly flexible — serve it up any way you like, and it’ll never disappoint. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or whipping up a last-minute lunch, this dish checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, and healthy.
Have you tried this recipe? Did you go with the classic seasoning or spice it up with a variation? Share your version in the comments!
If you loved this recipe, don’t miss our Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel perfect complements to your weekday meal rotation.
Don’t forget to rate and comment below! Your feedback helps others (and us!) improve and try something new.
