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Barber Foods Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Instant Pot Recipe
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Today, we’re diving into a mouthwatering Barber Foods Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Instant Pot Recipe that’s going to knock your socks off! If you’re like me, always on the hunt for quick, delicious meals that don’t skimp on flavor, then you’re in for a real treat.
Let’s face it, we’re all busy bees, buzzing around trying to balance work, family, and still get a decent meal on the table. That’s where this recipe comes in handy.
Barber Foods has already done half the work for us with their scrumptious broccoli-stuffed chicken, and we’re going to take it to the next level with our trusty Instant Pot.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “hey, can frozen stuffed chicken really be that good?” Trust me, folks, I was a skeptic too. But let me tell you, after today, this recipe will become a regular in your household, and for good reason!
Why This Recipe Works
Now, let’s talk about why this recipe is such a winner. First off, it’s quick. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes. That’s less time than it takes to watch an episode of your favorite sitcom!
Secondly, it’s virtually foolproof. The Instant Pot does all the hard work for you, ensuring your chicken is cooked perfectly every time.
But wait, there’s more! (I’ve always wanted to say that.) This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily switch up the seasoning to match your mood or what you have in your spice rack.
Feeling spicy? Add some cayenne to your seasoning mix.
Want a more herby flavor? Throw in some dried basil and oregano.
And let’s not forget about the clean-up. One pot, minimal mess. It’s a weeknight dinner dream come true!
Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about this Barber Foods Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Instant Pot recipe is how versatile it is. Let’s explore some delicious variations and customizations to keep your taste buds excited meal after meal!
- Spice It Up: For those who like it hot, add a kick to your seasoning mix. Try incorporating some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You could even brush the chicken with a bit of sriracha before cooking for an extra spicy twist.
- Herb Garden Delight: Transform the flavor profile by using fresh herbs. Mix some chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage into your seasoning blend. This gives the dish a lovely aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the cheesy broccoli stuffing.
- Lemon Pepper Zest: For a bright, zesty flavor, add lemon zest to your seasoning mix and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving. This citrusy kick complements the broccoli and cheese wonderfully.
- Barbecue Twist: After cooking, brush your chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce and pop it under the broiler for a minute or two. This gives you a tangy, slightly charred exterior that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
- Parmesan Crust: For cheese lovers, try sprinkling some grated parmesan over the chicken before the final broiling step. It creates a crispy, cheesy crust that’s simply irresistible.
- Mushroom Sauce: While the chicken is resting, use the Instant Pot to quickly sauté some mushrooms with garlic and thyme. Add a splash of cream for a rich mushroom sauce to serve over your chicken.
- Stuffing Variations: Don’t limit yourself to just the broccoli and cheese stuffed variety. This recipe works great with other Barber Foods stuffed chicken options like Cordon Bleu or Kiev. Each brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.
- Low-Carb Version: For those watching their carbs, skip the breading step. Season the chicken directly and cook as directed. Serve with cauliflower rice or extra veggies instead of traditional starches.
- Italian Style: Use Italian seasoning in your spice mix and serve the chicken over a bed of marinara sauce. Top with extra mozzarella and broil for a chicken parmesan-inspired dish.
Cooking is all about making the recipe work for you and your tastes. Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own variations. The Instant Pot method ensures your chicken will come out juicy and delicious, no matter how you season it!
Essential Equipment
Instant Pot
Barber Foods Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Instant Pot Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Barber Foods Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breasts frozen
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Since we're using frozen chicken, there's no need to thaw. That's the beauty of the Instant Pot, folks! It's a real time-saver.
- Take your chicken out of the packaging and give it a quick rinse. Pat it dry with some paper towels.
- Mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix all over your chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once it's hot, pop in seasoned chicken breasts and give them a quick sear on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn't absolutely necessary, but it adds a nice color and locks in some extra flavor.
- After searing, take the chicken out and set it aside for a moment. Pour chicken broth into the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This is where the flavor magic happens, people!
- Place the trivet that came with Instant Pot inside, and arrange your seared chicken breasts on top of it.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Always be careful when releasing the steam – safety first in the kitchen, folks!
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). If it needs a bit more time, you can always pop it back in for a couple more minutes.
Notes
- If using different varieties of Barber Foods stuffed chicken, cooking times may vary slightly. Always ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For a crispy exterior, broil the cooked chicken for 2-3 minutes after pressure cooking.
- This recipe works best with frozen stuffed chicken breasts. If using thawed, reduce cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
Finishing Touches on the Recipe
Now, here’s a little pro tip from yours truly: If you want a crispy exterior on your chicken (and who doesn’t?), you can transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it though – we want crispy, not charred!
And voila! Your Broccoli Stuffed Chicken is ready to serve. This usually pairs well with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. The chicken is already packed with cheesy, broccoli goodness, so you don’t need anything too heavy on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered this delicious Broccoli Stuffed Chicken in your Instant Pot, let’s talk about how to turn it into a complete meal. After all, we eat with our eyes first, right? So let’s make sure your plate looks as good as it tastes!
- Simple Side Salad: A light, crisp salad is the perfect companion to this rich and cheesy chicken. It’s great to toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances out the heartiness of the chicken beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a more substantial side, consider some roasted vegetables. While your chicken is resting, throw a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil and some herbs. They’ll be ready in no time and add a lovely pop of color to your plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling indulgent, whip up some creamy garlic mashed potatoes. The smooth texture complements the stuffed chicken perfectly, and who doesn’t love a good carb with their protein?
- Steamed Rice: For a lighter option, serve your chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice will soak up any juices from the chicken, making every bite delicious.
- Pasta Alfredo: Feeling extra fancy? Serve your broccoli and cheese stuffed chicken over a small portion of pasta tossed in Alfredo sauce. It’s like a deconstructed chicken Alfredo!
- Sautéed Green Beans: For a quick and easy veggie side, sauté some green beans with garlic and a squeeze of lemon. It adds a nice crunch and freshness to the meal.
When it comes to plating, place your golden-brown stuffed chicken breast slightly off-center on the plate. It’ll be more eye catchy. If you’re serving with a side salad, place it next to the chicken. For other sides, you can either place them alongside the chicken or, for things like rice or mashed potatoes, underneath it.
Don’t forget about garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the rich chicken.
If you’re feeling extra fancy, a lemon wedge on the side of the plate not only looks great but also allows your diners to add a squeeze of brightness if they wish.
Remember, the key to a great meal is balance – in flavors, textures, and even colors on the plate. With these serving suggestions, your recipe won’t only taste amazing but look restaurant-worthy too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use thawed Barber Foods Stuffed Chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use thawed chicken, but you’ll need to reduce the cooking time. Start with 8 minutes on high pressure and check the internal temperature. Remember, it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before pressure cooking?
While searing adds extra flavor, it’s not absolutely necessary. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still get delicious results.
Can I cook more than 4 chicken breasts at once?
Yes, you can cook up to 6-8 chicken breasts, depending on the size of your Instant Pot. Just make sure not to overcrowd the pot, and you may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes.
What if my chicken isn’t fully cooked after the recommended time?
If the internal temperature hasn’t reached 165°F (74°C), simply close the lid and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on high pressure.
Can I use chicken broth substitutes?
Absolutely! You can use vegetable broth, water with a bouillon cube, or even white wine for a different flavor profile.
Is the broiling step necessary?
Broiling helps crisp up the exterior of the chicken, but it’s optional. Your chicken will be fully cooked and delicious even without this extra step.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead?
While it’s possible, slow cooking isn’t ideal for stuffed chicken as it may cause the filling to become too soft. The Instant Pot method is recommended for best results.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I freeze the cooked stuffed chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if I don’t have all the spices listed in the recipe?
Don’t worry! Feel free to use what you have on hand. Even just salt and pepper will work, or you could use a pre-made poultry seasoning blend.
So there you have it, my friends. A delicious, quick, and easy Broccoli Stuffed Chicken Instant Pot recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Remember, cooking should be fun, not stressful. So don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Who knows? You might just stumble upon your new favorite dinner!