Easy Instant Pot Canned Chicken Recipes For Weekly Meal Prep Success
Meal prep can be a game changer for anyone looking to save time and eat healthier throughout the week. One of the easiest ways to whip up delicious meals is by using canned chicken in your Instant Pot. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a variety of tasty dishes that are perfect for lunch or dinner. In this article, we will explore several easy Instant Pot canned chicken recipes that will help you achieve weekly meal prep success.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why Choose Canned Chicken?
Canned chicken is not only convenient but also packed with protein and incredibly versatile. It can be found in most grocery stores and is a great pantry staple for quick meals. Using canned chicken in your Instant Pot can save you time without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe 1: Instant Pot Chicken Tacos
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Taco shells or tortillas
- Toppings: shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions
- Open and drain the canned chicken.
- In the Instant Pot, combine the drained chicken, taco seasoning, and chicken broth.
- Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once done, perform a quick release.
- Serve in taco shells or tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Recipe 2: Creamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In the Instant Pot, combine the drained chicken, rice, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth.
- Add the frozen peas and carrots, and season with salt and pepper.
- Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
- Stir well and serve warm.
Recipe 3: Instant Pot Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the drained chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, celery, and red onion.
- Season with salt and pepper and mix until well combined.
- Serve on lettuce leaves or as a sandwich filling.
Recipe 4: Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Buns for serving
- Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions
- In the Instant Pot, combine the drained chicken, BBQ sauce, and chicken broth.
- Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once done, perform a quick release.
- Serve on buns with coleslaw if desired.
Recipe 5: Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
- 2 cans (12.5 oz each) of canned chicken, drained
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In the Instant Pot, add the drained chicken, fettuccine pasta, and chicken broth.
- Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once done, perform a quick release.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.
Meal Prep Tips
When meal prepping with canned chicken, consider storing your meals in airtight containers to keep them fresh throughout the week. Label the containers with the date and contents, so you know what to grab for lunch or dinner. You can also mix and match these recipes to create a varied meal plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can I store cooked canned chicken meals in the fridge?
Cooked canned chicken meals can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep them in airtight containers.
2. Can I freeze meals made with canned chicken?
Yes, you can freeze meals made with canned chicken. Store them in freezer-safe containers, and they will last for about 2-3 months.
3. Is canned chicken healthy?
Canned chicken is a convenient source of protein and can be part of a healthy diet. Just be mindful of the sodium content and choose low-sodium options when possible.
4. Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken in these recipes?
Yes, you can use cooked shredded fresh chicken instead of canned chicken. Just adjust the cooking times as necessary based on the freshness of the chicken.
In Conclusion
Using canned chicken in your Instant Pot can open up a world of quick and easy meal prep possibilities. The recipes provided here are not only delicious but also flexible, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on your preferences. With just a few simple steps, you can have a week’s worth of meals ready in no time. Enjoy your meal prep journey and the convenience it brings to your busy life!
