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December 10, 2024
Chicken tenders are a versatile and tasty option for a quick and easy meal. They can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in the instant pot. Using an instant pot to cook chicken tenders is a convenient way to achieve tender and flavorful chicken in a fraction of the time it takes to cook in the oven or on the stove.
When using an instant pot, it is important to know the appropriate cooking time for chicken tenders to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken tenders, as well as the desired level of doneness.
On average, chicken tenders should cook in the instant pot for about 6-8 minutes on high pressure. For thin chicken tenders, 6 minutes should be sufficient, while thicker ones may require closer to 8 minutes. It is important to always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached a safe temperature of 165°F.
In addition to the cooking time, it is also important to consider the release method used when cooking chicken tenders in the instant pot. Quick release may result in a slightly drier texture, while natural release can help retain moisture and tenderness.
Overall, cooking chicken tenders in the instant pot is a quick and convenient method that yields delicious and tender results. By following the appropriate cooking time and release method, you can enjoy juicy and flavorful chicken tenders with minimal effort.
How to Cook Chicken Tenders in the Instant Pot
Cooking chicken tenders in the Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to have a delicious meal on the table in no time. With the right cooking technique, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
- Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer. This step will add flavor to the chicken.
- Preheat the Instant Pot by selecting the “Saute” function. Adjust the heat level to “More”.
- Add a small amount of oil to the Instant Pot. Once the oil is heated, add the seasoned chicken tenders. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust.
- Once the chicken tenders are seared, add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot. This will provide moisture and help cook the chicken.
- Lock the lid on the Instant Pot and set the cooking time to 6 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, and then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken to become even more tender.
- Serve the chicken tenders as they are or use them in your favorite recipes.
Note: It’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific Instant Pot model to ensure safe and proper usage.
Now you know how to cook chicken tenders in the Instant Pot! Enjoy this quick and delicious meal.
Preparing the Chicken Tenders
Before cooking the chicken tenders in the Instant Pot, it is important to properly prepare them. Follow these steps to ensure delicious and tender chicken:
1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken tenders. This will help prevent them from becoming greasy during cooking.
2. Rinse the chicken tenders under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will remove any residual juices and make the chicken easier to season.
3. Season the chicken tenders with your preferred spices and seasoning. You can use a simple salt and pepper mix, or get creative with flavors like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
4. If desired, marinate the chicken tenders for extra flavor. Place them in a bowl or resealable plastic bag with your chosen marinade and let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
5. Once the chicken tenders are seasoned or marinated, they are ready to be cooked in the Instant Pot. Follow the cooking instructions specific to your recipe or use the general guidelines provided.
| Chicken Tenders | Seasoning | Marinating Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5 lb | Salt, pepper, garlic powder | 30 minutes |
| 2 lb | Paprika, Italian seasoning | 1 hour |
| 2.5 lb | Salt, pepper, marinated in teriyaki sauce | Overnight |
Following these steps will ensure that your chicken tenders are properly prepared and ready for cooking in the Instant Pot. Enjoy!
Seasoning the Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Before cooking, it is essential to season the chicken tenders to enhance the flavors.
Step 2: You can use a pre-made seasoning blend like Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or any other preferred seasoning mix.
Step 3: Alternatively, you can create your own seasoning blend by combining herbs and spices such as garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the chicken tenders, making sure to coat all sides for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Massage the seasoning into the chicken tenders using your hands or a spoon to ensure it adheres well.
Step 6: Let the seasoned chicken tenders sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 7: If desired, you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of freshness.
Step 8: Once the chicken tenders are seasoned, they are ready to be cooked in the Instant Pot.
Heating the Instant Pot
Before you start cooking chicken tenders in the Instant Pot, it is important to properly heat up the appliance. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Plug in the Instant Pot
First, make sure to plug in your Instant Pot and place it in a safe, well-ventilated area.
Step 2: Add liquid
Next, add the required amount of liquid to the inner pot of the Instant Pot. This liquid is necessary to create steam, which will help cook the chicken tenders. The amount of liquid required may vary depending on the recipe you are using.
Step 3: Close the Instant Pot
Securely close the Instant Pot by placing the lid on top and twisting it until it locks into place. Make sure the venting valve is set to the “Sealing” position.
Step 4: Preheat the Instant Pot
Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button on the Instant Pot. Then, adjust the cooking time using the “+” and “-” buttons until you reach the desired time. The preset cooking time for chicken tenders is typically around 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Wait for the Instant Pot to heat up
The Instant Pot will take some time to heat up and come to pressure. This can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the quantity of food and the initial temperature of the ingredients. The display will show “On” while the Instant Pot is heating up.
Note: It is important to remember that the cooking time does not include the time it takes for the Instant Pot to heat up. This time should be taken into consideration when planning your meal.
Step 6: Start cooking
Once the Instant Pot has reached the desired cooking pressure, the display will show the remaining cooking time. At this point, the chicken tenders can be added to the Instant Pot.
Pro tip: For a golden, crispy texture, consider using the sauté function on the Instant Pot to sear the chicken tenders before pressure cooking them. This will help lock in the juices and add a delicious browned exterior.
Now that you know how to properly heat the Instant Pot, you are ready to cook delicious and tender chicken tenders in no time!
Cooking the Chicken Tenders
Once you have prepared the chicken tenders by seasoning them, it’s time to cook them in the Instant Pot. Follow these simple steps:
- Heat the Instant Pot: Start by turning on the Instant Pot and selecting the “Saute” function. Allow the pot to heat up for a few minutes.
- Add oil: Drizzle some oil into the pot to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or any cooking oil of your choice.
- Brown the chicken: Carefully place the chicken tenders in the Instant Pot once the oil is hot. Brown them on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This will help seal in the flavors.
- Add liquid: Next, add some liquid to the Instant Pot. This could be water, chicken broth, or any other flavorful liquid you prefer. The liquid will create steam and help cook the chicken.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the cooking time. For chicken tenders, you can pressure cook them for 5 minutes on high pressure. Make sure the pressure valve is set to “Sealing”.
- Natural release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully switch the pressure valve to “Venting” for a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Check for doneness: Open the Instant Pot and check if the chicken tenders are cooked through. They should be white and no longer pink in the center. If needed, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and enjoy: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, you can serve them immediately. They can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads, sandwiches, or used as a protein in various recipes.
Q&A
What is an instant pot?
An instant pot is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker that can be used to cook a variety of dishes.
Why should I cook chicken tenders in the instant pot?
Cooking chicken tenders in the instant pot is quick and convenient. It helps to retain moisture and results in tender and flavorful chicken.
How long does it take to cook chicken tenders in the instant pot?
It takes about 8-10 minutes to cook chicken tenders in the instant pot.
What ingredients do I need to cook chicken tenders in the instant pot?
To cook chicken tenders in the instant pot, you will need chicken tenders, seasoning, broth or water, and any additional ingredients for flavor.
Can I cook frozen chicken tenders in the instant pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken tenders in the instant pot. However, the cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure they are fully cooked.
How long should I cook chicken tenders in the instant pot?
Chicken tenders should be cooked in the instant pot for about 5-7 minutes on high pressure.
Can I cook frozen chicken tenders in the instant pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken tenders in the instant pot. Just increase the cooking time to 8-10 minutes on high pressure.