Hey, fellow cooking enthusiasts, and a Happy New Year to each one of you! ‘Tis the season of joy, merriment, and of course, delectable holiday feasts! I’m Ethan Harris, your culinary companion through the yuletide season, and I’m thrilled to share a recipe that embodies the essence of these magical holidays—a flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler that’ll become the highlight of your festive spread.
As we gather ’round the hearth and deck the halls with boughs of holly, there’s an undeniable buzz in the air—filled with the aroma of spices, the warmth of family gatherings, and the anticipation of delightful treats gracing our tables. Christmas and New Year are moments to cherish—moments of togetherness, celebration, and creating lasting memories.
In the spirit of this wonderful season, I’ve crafted a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates everything we love about holiday dining—a dish that’s not just about nourishment but also about creating an experience. Picture this: tender chicken, rich flavors, and a biscuit-like cobbler topping—all cooked to perfection in the one and only Instant Pot.
But hey, let’s not get ahead of ourselves! Before we embark on this flavorful journey together, let me say this: the holidays are all about savoring every moment, indulging in the joys of togetherness, and treating our taste buds to the wonders of fantastic food. And trust me, this Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler is the epitome of holiday indulgence!
So, while the snowflakes dance outside and the twinkling lights cast their magical glow, let’s gather ’round our kitchens, don our aprons, and bring forth a dish that’ll become the heart of our festive celebrations—a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!
What is Chicken Cobbler?
Chicken Cobbler is a savory dish that combines tender chicken and hearty vegetables in a flavorful, often herb-infused, broth or gravy. What sets it apart is the cobbler-style topping, typically made with a biscuit or dumpling-like dough. The cobbler topping is placed on the chicken mixture before the dish is baked or cooked. As it cooks, the topping transforms into a golden, fluffy crust that complements the savory nature of the chicken filling.
This festive variation of a classic cobbler brings together the heartiness of chicken with the sweetness of the cobbler, creating a unique and flavorful experience to usher in the New Year. It’s a delicious and impressive dish to serve during celebrations, offering a perfect blend of comfort and culinary creativity for a memorable start to the New Year.
How To Make Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler
Step 1. Prepare Chicken Filling:
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Add olive oil to the pot.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces and brown them for about 3-4 minutes.
- Season with dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir, ensuring to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add frozen mixed vegetables and mix well.
Step 2. Prepare Cobbler Topping:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Incorporate the cold butter cubes into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the buttermilk or regular milk until a dough forms. Don’t overmix.
Step 3. Assemble and Cook:
- Spoon the prepared cobbler dough over the chicken mixture in the Instant Pot, covering it evenly.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing.”
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before performing a quick pressure release.
- Carefully open the lid and let the chicken cobbler sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon the warm and flavorful chicken cobbler into bowls and enjoy this comforting dish! Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add herbs according to your taste preferences. This Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering!
Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler Recipe
Course: Main, DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Intermediate4-6
servings15
minutes15
minutes275
kcalElevate your New Year’s celebration with Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler—a savory symphony of tender chicken and golden cobbler perfection.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Filling:
1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Cobbler Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup buttermilk or regular milk
Directions
- Prepare Chicken Filling: Sauté onion, garlic, and brown chicken in Instant Pot. Season, add broth, and mix in frozen veggies.
- Prepare Cobbler Topping: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Blend in cold butter, then stir in milk until a dough forms.
- Assemble and Cook: Spoon cobbler dough over chicken. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes with 5 minutes of natural release.
- Serve and Enjoy: Open lid, let thicken, then spoon warm chicken cobbler into bowls. Adjust seasonings to taste. Perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering!
Notes
- *Rate Recipe: If you’ve tried the recipe, don’t forget to Rate the Recipe in the Comments Section. Thank you!
Expert Tips for making Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler
Chicken Cut and Size: Ensure uniformity in cutting the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking. Bigger chunks may require longer cooking times, so aim for bite-sized pieces to cook them thoroughly within the given time frame.
Saute for Flavor: Utilize the “Sauté” function to its fullest. This initial step of sautéing the onions, garlic, and chicken helps build layers of flavor by caramelizing the aromatics and sealing in the meat’s juices.
Seasoning Balance: Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. Taste the chicken filling before sealing the Instant Pot to ensure the seasoning (salt, pepper, herbs) is well balanced and suits your flavor profile.
Buttermilk vs. Regular Milk: Buttermilk can provide a tangier taste and a slight tenderness to the cobbler topping. However, if you’re using regular milk, handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.
Cobbler Topping Consistency: Be mindful not to overmix the cobbler dough. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture. Aim for a crumbly consistency resembling coarse crumbs to achieve a light, airy cobbler topping.
Even Distribution: Spread the cobbler dough evenly over the chicken filling to ensure consistent cooking. This allows the topping to cook through uniformly and prevents any areas from being undercooked.
Proper Sealing and Pressure Release: Check the Instant Pot’s sealing ring to ensure it’s properly fitted and free of any food particles. After cooking, perform a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before doing a quick pressure release to prevent any potential spillovers or splatters.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken cobbler to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together, allows the cobbler topping to settle, and thickens the dish slightly before serving.
Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding additional herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Consider incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Side Dishes Ideas
Pairing options for Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler can vary based on personal preferences and the occasion. Here are a few ideas for side dishes that complement the flavors of the cobbler:
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cobbler.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve a medley of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots to add color, nutrients, and a crunchy texture to the meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a comforting and classic accompaniment that complements the savory flavors of the chicken cobbler.
Herbed Rice or Quinoa: Fluffy, herbed rice or quinoa can act as a flavorful and nutritious base, absorbing the delicious sauce from the cobbler.
Biscuits or Dinner Rolls: Warm, buttery biscuits or soft dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up the sauce from the cobbler and adding a comforting element to the meal.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Roast hearty root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and parsnips with herbs for a rustic and earthy side dish.
Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh seasonal fruits can provide a light and refreshing contrast to the savory cobbler. Consider a mix of berries, melons, and citrus fruits.
Cornbread: Serve slices of cornbread for a sweet and slightly crumbly side that complements the savory chicken and biscuit topping of the cobbler.
Sauces you might Consider
While the Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler is a flavorful and complete dish on its own, you can consider serving it with a sauce or gravy to add an extra dimension of taste and moisture, enhancing the overall dining experience. Here are a few sauce options that can complement the dish:
Chicken Gravy: A simple homemade chicken gravy made from the cooking liquid in the Instant Pot can add richness and depth of flavor to the cobbler. Thicken the broth with a roux (butter and flour mixture) for a comforting addition.
Herb-infused Cream Sauce: Create a creamy sauce infused with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to add a touch of sophistication to the dish. A blend of cream, butter, and herbs can complement the savory chicken and cobbler topping.
Tomato-Based Sauce: A tangy tomato sauce with herbs and spices can provide a contrasting flavor to the savory chicken. A simple marinara sauce or a chunky tomato and herb-based sauce can work well.
Sour Cream or Yogurt Sauce: A light sauce made with sour cream or Greek yogurt blended with herbs, garlic, or lemon can add a tangy and refreshing element to the dish.
Chutney or Relish: Consider serving the chicken cobbler with a side of fruit chutney or relish for a sweet and tangy contrast. Mango chutney or cranberry-orange relish can complement the flavors of the cobbler.
Ultimately, the choice of sauce depends on personal taste preferences and the flavor profile you wish to achieve. These sauces can be served on the side, allowing individuals to add as much or as little as they prefer, enhancing the enjoyment of the Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler without overpowering its delicious flavors.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs in this recipe?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs might add a bit more richness due to their higher fat content. Ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
How can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions like gluten-free or lactose-free?
For a gluten-free option, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the cobbler topping. As for lactose-free, use a dairy-free substitute for butter and milk, such as vegan butter and almond or soy milk.
Can I prepare the Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling and the cobbler topping separately ahead of time and refrigerate them. Assemble them just before cooking in the Instant Pot for best results.
What should I do if the cobbler topping turns out too dry or too wet?
If the topping seems too dry, you can gently brush it with melted butter or lightly drizzle some milk before cooking. If it appears too wet, add a bit more flour to adjust the consistency.
How do I prevent the chicken from overcooking or becoming dry?
Ensure not to overcook the chicken during the initial sautéing process and follow the recommended cooking times. Using chicken broth helps maintain moisture and prevents dryness.
Can I freeze leftovers of the Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating gently to maintain the flavors and texture.
Which sauce or gravy pairs best with this instant pot chicken cobbler?
The choice of sauce depends on personal taste. A rich chicken gravy, herb-infused cream sauce, or a tangy tomato-based sauce can complement the flavors. You can also opt for a light sour cream or yogurt-based sauce.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler?
Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to prevent the cobbler topping from drying out or becoming too crispy. Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture
Final Thoughts on Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler
As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, let the aroma of Instant Pot Chicken Cobbler fill your kitchen with anticipation and warmth. This savory delight, with its tender chicken and golden cobbler topping, is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration on your plate. May this flavorful creation mark the beginning of a year filled with joy, culinary adventures, and delicious memories. Explore more of my Instant Pot recipes and enjoy the simplicity and exquisite taste—happy cooking!. Here’s to a Happy New Year and the delightful moments that good food brings to our lives!