Are you tired of spending hours thawing chicken tenderloins before you can cook them? Well, fret no more! With the Instant Pot, you can now enjoy delicious and tender chicken tenderloins straight from the freezer in no time. In this article, we will guide you through a simple yet flavorful recipe that will elevate your frozen chicken tenderloins to a whole new level. So, let’s dive right in and discover the secret to a quick and mouthwatering meal!
1. The Magic of the Instant Pot:
The Instant Pot has become a kitchen essential for many, thanks to its ability to cook food quickly and efficiently. This multi-functional appliance acts as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, and more, making it perfect for busy individuals who want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
2. The Benefits of Cooking Frozen Chicken Tenderloins in the Instant Pot:
Cooking frozen chicken tenderloins in the Instant Pot offers several advantages. Firstly, it saves you time as there’s no need to thaw the chicken beforehand. Secondly, the pressure cooking method helps retain the moisture in the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Lastly, the Instant Pot infuses the chicken with flavors, making it incredibly delicious.
3. Gather Your Ingredients:
Before we begin, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients for this recipe. You will need:
– Frozen chicken tenderloins
– Olive oil
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Paprika
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Chicken broth
4. Preparing the Instant Pot:
Now that we have everything ready, it’s time to prepare the Instant Pot. Start by adding a cup of chicken broth to the pot. This will create a flavorful base for the chicken tenderloins.
5. Seasoning the Chicken:
Next, take your frozen chicken tenderloins and generously season them with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. The seasonings will enhance the flavor of the chicken and give it a delightful kick.
6. Placing the Chicken in the Instant Pot:
Once the chicken is well-seasoned, carefully place the tenderloins into the Instant Pot. Make sure they are evenly distributed and not overlapping. This will ensure that each piece cooks evenly.
7. Setting the Cooking Time:
Now it’s time to set the cooking time. For frozen chicken tenderloins, we recommend cooking on high pressure for 12 minutes. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
8. Locking the Instant Pot:
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure it is properly locked. This is crucial to ensure that the pressure builds up inside the pot, allowing the chicken to cook quickly and evenly.
9. Cooking the Chicken:
Once the Instant Pot is locked, set it to high pressure and let it cook for the designated time. During this process, the Instant Pot will build up pressure, and the chicken will cook under this pressure, resulting in perfectly tender and flavorful chicken tenderloins.
10. Natural Release or Quick Release:
After the cooking time is complete, you have two options for releasing the pressure: natural release or quick release. Natural release involves letting the pressure release naturally over time, which takes around 10-15 minutes. Quick release, on the other hand, involves manually releasing the pressure using the valve on the Instant Pot. Choose the method that works best for you.
11. Shredding or Slicing the Chicken:
Once the pressure has been released, carefully open the Instant Pot. You will be greeted by the aroma of perfectly cooked chicken tenderloins. At this point, you can choose to shred the chicken using two forks or slice it into smaller pieces, depending on your preference.
12. Serving Suggestions:
Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to decide how you want to enjoy it. You can serve the tenderloins as they are, alongside your favorite sides, or use them as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or salads. The possibilities are endless!
13. Storing Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, don’t worry! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The leftover chicken can be used in various dishes, such as pasta, stir-fries, or even added to soups for an extra protein boost.
14. Experimenting with Flavors:
While this recipe provides a basic seasoning for the chicken tenderloins, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. You can try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist. The Instant Pot is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
15. Conclusion:
Cooking frozen chicken tenderloins in the Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy individuals who crave a quick and delicious meal. With the right seasonings and cooking method, you can transform these frozen gems into a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. So, next time you find yourself with a bag of frozen chicken tenderloins, remember this recipe and let the Instant Pot work its magic. Happy cooking!