15 Instant Pot Dinner Ideas That Keep Your Kitchen Cool
The Instant Pot may just be the largest kitchen appliance innovation since the refrigerator. They are multi-functional so you don’t need a handful of kitchen appliances on the counter because they can do the job of many different appliances. Not only are they versatile, they make getting dinner on the table quickly a breeze. Don’t heat up your kitchen this summer more than you have to. These fifteen Instant Pot recipes are delicious, healthy, family-friendly meals that keep the heat out of your kitchen.
1. Instant Pot Taco Casserole
When you want a quick and easy dinner that you know everyone in the family will love, this Instant Pot taco casserole is it. It’s got all of the taco flavors that you love in a comforting and hearty pasta dinner. You could even use it as a new addition to your Taco Tuesday recipe collection.
2. Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches
These Buffalo chicken sandwiches are great for a lazy weekend meal or a get-together with friends. They make a delicious appetizer on slider buns or a main meal on bigger buns. Make a double batch and freeze some for future meals. This is also fantastic for movie nights.
3. Mexican Chicken
If you’re in the mood for something south of the border, try this Mexican chicken recipe to get your dinner underway. Serve it over brown rice or as a taco filler along with avocado and cilantro. You can also use this to stuff tacos or burritos.
4. Lentils And Rice
This lentils and rice dish is aromatic thanks to the marvelous combination of exotic but easy-to-find spices. The recipe requires newer lentils and brown rice to turn out well. The flavor is unequaled and pairs nicely with some flatbread or some soup.
5. Lentil Sloppy Joes
If you love sloppy joes, this lentil sloppy Joes recipe should definitely be on your to-make list. They are every bit as sloppy as the meat-based version, have tons more good-for-you fiber, and the flavor is simply fabulous. Serve these with a side of baked fries to round out the meal. Leftovers can be mixed with cooked brown rice for a healthy lunch the next day.
6. Chicken Ropa Vieja
This Cuban dish is sure to please. Chicken ropa vieja is an amazing chicken dish that is often served with rice, beans, and veggies. You can make lunch wraps with it, stuff tacos and burritos with it, or mix it with some quinoa. It will freeze well for up to six months if you pack it well.
7. Cilantro Lime Chicken
Served over rice or in a taco or burrito, this cilantro lime chicken is the stuff taco dreams are made of. It cooks up fast in the Instant Pot, too, and is a hearty, protein-rich meal you can serve in multiple ways.
8. Texas Cowboy Stew
Got a hitch in your giddyup? This Texas cowboy stew should put you right in a hurry. It’s hearty, filling, and full of all the things you would expect from a stew like this. Enjoy it with a delicious piece of cornbread.
9. Italian Chicken
While this is a slow cooker recipe, it also has instructions for making it in an Instant Pot. This wonderful Italian chicken dinner can be served over rice or pasta for a complete meal. It’s made with frozen ingredients, so you can also assemble it quickly for meal prep ahead of time.
10. Potato Leek Soup
Potatoes and leeks just go together. This potato leek soup proves that this classic combination has a delicious reputation that is well-earned. Serve this with some garlic bread or cornbread and a green side salad to complete the meal. This also makes a great Thermos lunch as well.
11. Carolina Gold BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
It’s hard not to love these Carolina gold BBQ chicken sandwiches. Their robust flavor is a heady experience. The heartiness of the meat and the crisp freshness of the coleslaw is a perfect combination for dinner tonight. Make a big batch and keep some on hand in the freezer for future dinners, too.
12. Egg Roll In A Bowl
If you love egg rolls, this egg roll in a bowl should be a perfect fit for your dinner table. It comes together quickly and uses all-natural ingredients. You can enjoy it as is or serve it over rice.
13. Slow Cooker Butter Chicken
Love Indian flavors? You aren’t alone. Those aromatic spices are always a fabulous experience. This slow cooker butter chicken is a play on the Indian classic that so many love and it will not disappoint. It’s easily made in your Instant Pot, too.
14. BBQ Chicken Breast
You don’t need a grill to make good BBQ chicken breasts. All you need is your Instant Pot. These delicious chicken breasts are tender and fully flavored with all those spices that come with your favorite barbecue sauce. Serve with rice and veg for a complete meal.
15. French Onion Chicken
French onion chicken tastes delicious and is so easy to prepare, you’ll wonder if you had to do any work at all. Serve it with rice and veggies to complete the meal, or skip the rice to make this a low-carb or keto meal.
More From The Gracious Pantry
Need some new ideas for dinner tonight? Chicken or ground turkey make quick and simple meals that are tasty, too. Here are some suggestions to get you started on what to make for dinner tonight.