Welcome to a versatile and delicious dinner idea inspired by the Instant Pot 6qt Easy 3-in-1 Slow Cooker, Pressure Cooker, and Sauté Pot. This dish takes full advantage of the appliance’s functionality—especially the sauté mode for browning the chicken and the pressure or slow cooking function for creating a tender, aromatic meal that’s perfect any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried tarragon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
Instructions
Begin by selecting the sauté setting on your Instant Pot. Heat the olive oil, then add the onions and cook until they caramelize slightly, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and continue stirring for another minute, letting its aroma fill your kitchen. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and tarragon, then add them to the pot to sear on both sides. This step adds depth of flavor and a lovely golden color to the chicken.
Next, pour in the lemon juice and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to prevent sticking. If you’re into mushrooms, stir them in now for extra heartiness. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release. If you prefer a slow-cooked approach, switch to the slow cook function and let it simmer for 4 to 5 hours on low, until the chicken is fork-tender.
When the cooking cycle finishes, give the sauce a taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or a touch more lemon juice. Serve your Zesty Lemon-Tarragon Chicken warm over rice, noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. The tangy sauce and fragrant herbs make it a meal that’s comforting yet refreshing.
This recipe is wonderful for anyone seeking a quick, home-cooked meal that still delivers bright, fresh flavors. It’s customizable too: you can throw in extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap in white wine for the broth if you’re feeling fancy.
Tarragon pairs beautifully with the lemon, creating a light but satisfying balance. It’s an ideal choice for busy families, health-conscious home cooks, or even dinner party hosts looking for a low-effort showstopper. Enjoy your chicken knowing it’s nourishing, crowd-pleasing, and incredibly easy—thanks to the ever-handy Instant Pot 6qt Easy 3-in-1.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
