Name: Instant Pot Tahini Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup onion diced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1.5 cups chicken broth (not sodium reduced); 2 medium dates sliced; 1/2 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons za'atar; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts; Cilantro chopped, for garnish; Fresh mint chopped, for garnish; Drizzle of honey optional

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, savory dish, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with Instant Pot Tahini Chicken. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you want something that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a touch of exotic flavor to your table. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was amazed at how the creamy tahini mixed with tender chicken created a symphony of flavors that transported me from my kitchen to a Middle Eastern marketplace. This recipe is a wonderful reminder of how simple ingredients can come together in an Instant Pot to make something truly special.

One of my favorite aspects of making Instant Pot Tahini Chicken is the ease with which it comes together. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to enjoy the rich aromas wafting through your home without keeping you tethered to the stove. It’s a great way to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying dinner with family or friends. And let’s not forget the delightful texture of the chicken, which becomes so tender that it practically falls apart with a fork! If you’re looking for a dish that’s not just quick but also packs a punch in terms of flavor, this one’s for you.

As I sat down to indulge in my creation, I was struck by the versatility of this dish. It’s not only perfect for a cozy family dinner but also great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and have delicious lunches ready for the week ahead. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty, if not better, as the flavors have more time to meld together. I guarantee that the first bite will have you coming back for seconds!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Instant Pot, Skillet, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

FAQ

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add even more moisture to the dish. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook compared to chicken breasts. The flavor will still be delicious and rich with the tahini sauce!

This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or warm pita bread. You could also serve it alongside a simple salad to balance the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, roasted vegetables would also complement the dish perfectly!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving!

Yes! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as tofu cooks much faster. The tahini sauce will still provide that creamy texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Tahini Chicken stands out with its rich, creamy flavors and tender chicken, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. I encourage you to try this dish and see how it transforms your dinner table into something extraordinary. Let’s make it tonight and enjoy every bite together!

Instant Pot Tahini Chicken

The ultimate comfort food for a busy weeknight, Instant Pot Tahini Chicken combines tender chicken with creamy tahini for a deeply satisfying meal. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for dinner tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Dinner

Cuisine Middle Eastern

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Food Processor
Instant Pot
Skillet
Cutting Board
Wooden Spoon
Chef's Knife

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup onion diced
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1.5 cups chicken broth (not sodium reduced)
2 medium dates sliced
1/2 cup tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons za'atar
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
Cilantro chopped, for garnish
Fresh mint chopped, for garnish
Drizzle of honey optional

Instructions

Heat your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the onion and cook until it begins to soften, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add the cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
While the onions cook, place the chicken broth and dates in a large microwave-safe bowl and microwave until the broth is very hot, about 1 to 1.5 minutes.
Place the broth and dates into a food processor and process until the dates are mostly broken down (a few small pieces are okay). Then, add the tahini, lemon, and salt, and process until combined.
Once the onion is softened, season the chicken with the za'atar. Place it into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
Pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and set the lid to sealing. Cook for 10 minutes on manual high pressure.
Once cooked, do an instant steam release. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board.
Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Shred the chicken and add it back to the pot. Stir thoroughly.
Garnish and DEVOUR!

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations: Experiment with different spices like paprika or coriander for a unique twist!
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint really elevate the dish, so don’t forget to add them.
Serving: Serve with rice or pita for a complete meal.