Chicken stew is a comforting and delicious dish that can be made in a variety of ways. Many people prefer using a pressure cooker to prepare chicken stew because it significantly reduces cooking time, while still producing a flavorful and tender result. If you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe for chicken stew in a pressure cooker, you’ve come to the right place!
To make chicken stew in a pressure cooker, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for extra flavor and moisture. You’ll also need a variety of vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. These vegetables not only add great taste to the stew, but also provide essential nutrients.
Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Begin by sautéing the chicken pieces in some oil until they are golden brown. This step helps to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor. Next, add the vegetables and any desired seasonings, such as garlic, thyme, or bay leaves.
After adding the seasonings, pour in some chicken broth or stock to create a flavorful base for the stew. Seal the pressure cooker and set it to high pressure for about 20 minutes. This short cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender. Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure and give the stew a stir.
Now, your chicken stew is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. The pressure cooker method ensures that your chicken stew is cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners or weekend comfort food cravings.
In conclusion, making chicken stew in a pressure cooker is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this classic dish. By following a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful and tender chicken stew that will warm your soul. So dust off your pressure cooker and get ready to indulge in a delicious bowl of homemade chicken stew!
Preparing Chicken Stew
To make chicken stew in a pressure cooker, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Here’s how to prepare the chicken stew:
- Turn on the pressure cooker and select the sauté function. Add olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pressure cooker and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pressure cooker. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the pressure cooker.
- Stir the ingredients well and return the chicken to the pressure cooker.
- Secure the lid of the pressure cooker and select the stew function. Set the cooking time for 15 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Remove the bay leaf from the chicken stew before serving.
Your delicious chicken stew is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Choosing the Right Chicken
When making chicken stew in a pressure cooker, it is important to choose the right type and cut of chicken. The choice of chicken can greatly affect the flavor and tenderness of the stew.
For chicken stew, it is best to use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. These pieces not only add flavor to the stew, but the bone and skin also help to create a rich and hearty broth.
When it comes to the type of chicken, you have several options. Chicken thighs and drumsticks are great choices as they have more fat and connective tissue, which helps to add richness and depth to the stew. Chicken breasts can also be used, but they tend to be leaner and can become dry if overcooked.
It is important to select high-quality chicken that is fresh and free from any odors. Look for chicken that has a pinkish color and avoid any pieces that are slimy or have a foul smell. If possible, choose organic or free-range chicken for a more flavorful and ethically-raised option.
Before adding the chicken to the pressure cooker, it is recommended to season it with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the flavor of the chicken and adds a delicious seasoning to the stew. You can also marinate the chicken in your preferred spices or herbs for extra flavor.
Overall, choosing the right chicken is crucial for making a delicious and flavorful chicken stew in a pressure cooker. By selecting bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces and high-quality chicken, you can create a stew that is tender, rich, and full of flavor.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make chicken stew in a pressure cooker, you will need to gather the following ingredients:
Chicken
- 2 pounds of chicken thighs or a whole chicken, cut into pieces
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquid
- 4 cups of chicken broth
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepared and ready to go before starting the cooking process. This will make it easier and more efficient to follow the recipe.
Preparing the Pressure Cooker
Before you start cooking the chicken stew in a pressure cooker, it’s important to prepare the cooker for use. Here’s how:
- Check the pressure cooker for any damages or defects. Make sure the rubber gasket is in good condition and fits tightly.
- Wash the pressure cooker and all its components with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Place the trivet or wire rack inside the pressure cooker. This will elevate the chicken and prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Add the desired amount of water to the pressure cooker. The exact amount may vary depending on the recipe, so refer to the instructions.
- Close the lid securely by lining up the arrows on the lid and the pot. Twist the lid clockwise until it locks into place.
- Ensure the pressure release valve is set to the sealing position. This will allow pressure to build up inside the cooker.
- Plug in the pressure cooker and set the desired cooking time and pressure level according to the recipe.
Once the pressure cooker is properly prepared, you can proceed with cooking the delicious chicken stew, knowing that it will be cooked efficiently and safely.
Cooking the Chicken Stew
After you have gathered and prepped all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking the chicken stew in your pressure cooker. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place the pressure cooker on the stove and heat it over medium heat.
- Add the olive oil to the cooker and let it heat up.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the chicken pieces to the pressure cooker and brown them on all sides.
- Once the chicken is browned, add the carrots, potatoes, celery, and any other vegetables you prefer.
- Sprinkle the herbs and spices over the vegetables and chicken.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together.
- Close the pressure cooker lid and set the cooking time according to the recipe you are following.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Open the lid and check the chicken stew for desired tenderness and seasoning. Adjust if needed.
- Serve the chicken stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful chicken stew made right in your pressure cooker!
Serving and Enjoying
Once the chicken stew is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Here are a few tips to make your meal even more delicious:
- Prepare some crusty bread or dinner rolls to serve alongside the stew. The bread will soak up the flavorful broth and complement the tender chicken and veggies.
- Garnish each bowl of stew with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. They will add a pop of freshness and brighten up the dish.
- Consider serving the chicken stew over a bed of cooked rice or mashed potatoes. The starch will absorb the tasty sauce and create a heartier meal.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream just before serving. This will add richness to the stew.
- Pair the chicken stew with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add some freshness and balance to the meal.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.
Remember to enjoy the warm and comforting chicken stew in good company. Share the meal with friends or family and savor each spoonful together.
FAQ
What is chicken stew?
Chicken stew is a dish made with chicken, vegetables, and broth, cooked slowly until the meat is tender and the flavors are well developed.
How do I make chicken stew in a pressure cooker?
To make chicken stew in a pressure cooker, start by sautéing onions and garlic in the cooker. Then, add chicken pieces and cook until browned. Next, add vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and peas, along with broth and seasonings. Close the pressure cooker and cook on high pressure for about 15-20 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. Serve the chicken stew hot.