Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken Stew Recipe

Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew is like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine the rich aroma of bacon mingling with tender chicken, earthy lentils, and a medley of spices swirling in your kitchen. The moment you lift the lid of your pressure cooker, a symphony of flavors bursts forth, promising comfort and satisfaction. For more inspiration, check out this flavorful chicken burrito bowls recipe.

I vividly recall the first time I made this stew. It was one of those dreary winter evenings when even my cat looked bored out of her mind. As I prepared this dish, I could practically hear the clouds parting outside. My family gathered around the table, ready to dive into what would become an instant favorite. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings with friends, this stew will have everyone clamoring for seconds if not thirds.

Ingredients for Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Juicy thighs add flavor and tenderness; feel free to use breasts if that’s what you have handy.
• Smoked Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for that irresistible smoky flavor that elevates the entire stew.
• Green Lentils: These hold their shape well during cooking; rinse them before use to remove any debris.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Celery Stalks: Chopped finely to enhance the stew’s overall texture while complementing other ingredients.
• Onion: A medium onion diced will provide a flavorful base; you can use yellow or white onions based on your preference.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on this one!
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping everything moist and flavorful.
• Dried Thyme: This herb adds depth; fresh thyme works too if you’re feeling fancy!
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground pepper enhances all flavors; season according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Bacon

Start by turning on your pressure cooker to sauté mode. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon but leave the drippings in this is liquid gold!

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir occasionally for about five minutes until they soften up smell that? It’s like heaven.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Toss in your boneless skinless chicken thighs next. Season with black pepper and dried thyme as you brown them slightly on both sides about three minutes should do it.

Step 4: Add Lentils and Broth

Pour in rinsed green lentils along with chicken broth while ensuring everything gets mixed evenly. Scrape up any bits stuck at the bottom that’s where all the flavor lives!

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Seal your pressure cooker lid tightly and set it to high pressure. Cook for about fifteen minutes; during this time, take a moment to dance in your kitchen because you deserve it!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once cooking time’s complete, carefully release steam using the quick-release method. Stir everything together add back that crispy bacon and serve hot! For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle more fresh thyme on top.

Now go ahead! Transfer to plates or bowls as desired because nothing says “I love you” quite like a big bowl of hearty stew waiting at home after a long day. Enjoy every mouthful!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve delicious results, start by browning the bacon in your pressure cooker. Once it’s crispy, remove it and sauté onions, garlic, and carrots. delicious chili dog sauce Next, add the lentils and chicken along with spices before sealing the lid for a quick cook.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the lentils for chickpeas or use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a healthier twist. Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika to give the dish an extra kick that suits your palate.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover quick and easy pressure cooker chicken, lentil, and bacon stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove until heated through.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of the first time I made it for friends; they were skeptical at first but couldn’t stop raving about how hearty and comforting it was!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew?

To make Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew, you’ll need chicken thighs or breasts, lentils (green or brown), diced bacon, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and spices like thyme and bay leaves. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. This stew is versatile; you can also add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, hearty lentils, and crispy bacon creates a comforting meal that is perfect for any season.

How long does it take to cook Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew?

Using a pressure cooker significantly reduces cooking time. For Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew, you’ll only need about 10-15 minutes of cooking time under high pressure after sautéing the ingredients. Including prep time, the entire process typically takes around 30-40 minutes. This method not only saves time but also enhances flavors by allowing all ingredients to meld together quickly.

Can I make Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew in advance?

Yes! You can definitely prepare Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Additionally, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it on the stove or microwave. The flavors often improve overnight as they meld together even further.

What side dishes pair well with Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew?

For a complete meal alongside your Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew, consider serving crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping into the rich broth. A simple green salad adds freshness that complements the stew’s hearty nature. roasted chicken and tomatoes Alternatively, roasted vegetables provide an excellent contrast in texture while enhancing the meal’s nutritional value. Enjoying it with a glass of red wine can elevate your dining experience as well.

Conclusion for Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew:

In conclusion, Quick and Easy Pressure Cooker Chicken, Lentil, and Bacon Stew offers a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and convenient. The combination of protein-rich chicken and lentils with flavorful bacon makes it an ideal comfort food choice. flavorful Hawaiian pork stew With minimal preparation time required thanks to the pressure cooker method, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. pesto chicken with potatoes Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for added flair!