Instant Pot Frozen Chimichurri Chicken

Dinner’s Ready in a Flash

Some nights, the last thing you want to do is hover over the stove or wait for chicken to thaw. I’ve been there, it’s 5:30, you’re starving, and you realize the only thing in the fridge is a lonely jar of pickles and half a lemon. That’s exactly why this Instant Pot Frozen Chimichurri Chicken is one of my weeknight heroes, it’s the perfect freezer friendly chicken dinner for busy nights when you need something delicious in a hurry.

It goes straight from freezer to table in under 30 minutes, making it the ultimate quick Instant Pot chicken recipe for those “oops, forgot to thaw dinner” moments. The chimichurri brings that fresh, herby, garlicky kick that makes everything taste bright and exciting, exactly what you want in a chimichurri chicken Instant Pot dinner that’s as quick as it is flavorful.

I love making a batch when I’m short on time but still want something fresh and flavorful. And because it’s freezer-friendly, I can prep a few packs ahead of time and feel like a dinner wizard when I pull one out. No stress, no mess — just juicy, flavor-packed chicken that works for tacos, salads, or a side of rice and veggies. It’s the definition of an easy weeknight chicken recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Key Takeaways

• Instant Pot Frozen Chimichurri Chicken means no thawing, no stress.
• The chimichurri marinade packs fresh herbs, garlic, and a tangy kick.
• Freezer-to-table fast – no thawing needed.
• Juicy and flavorful thanks to the chimichurri marinade.
• Minimal cleanup – just the Instant Pot and maybe a cutting board.
• Versatile – serve it whole, shredded, or sliced into salads, wraps, or tacos.
• The perfect easy weeknight chicken recipe for busy schedules.

Make It Extra

• Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor base.
• Add a splash of pineapple juice for a sweet-tangy twist.
• Once cooked, thicken the leftover sauce with a quick sauté for drizzling.
• Top with extra fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta for a fresh pop.
• Keep extra freezer packs on hand so you can turn any hectic day into an easy weeknight chicken dinner win.

Perfect For

• Busy weeknights when you forgot to defrost dinner.
• Meal prep Sundays – shred the chicken for lunches all week.
• Last-minute guests (because it tastes like you put in way more effort).

What You’ll Need

• 1 package Freezer-Friendly Chimichurri Chicken
• 1 cup broth or water (chicken broth recommended)

Optional Upgrades

• Pineapple juice, apple juice, or other flavorful liquids
• Extra fresh herbs for garnish
• Crumbled feta or queso fresco

How to Make It

1. Place the frozen chimichurri chicken in the Instant Pot, breaking apart any pieces stuck together. This step is key for cooking Instant Pot Frozen Chimichurri Chicken evenly and keeping it juicy.
2. Pour in the broth or water (or your choice of liquid) and season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
3. Seal the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on High Pressure for 10–12 minutes. (10 minutes for juicy perfection, 12 if you want them super tender.)
4. Once the timer beeps, let the pressure release naturally for 5–10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Check the internal temp — it should be at least 165°F (mine usually hits 180°F+).
6. Serve as is, shred for tacos or salads, or slice for wraps. For a thicker sauce, switch to Sauté mode and simmer until it reaches your perfect drizzle consistency.

Tips and Tricks

• If your chicken pieces are stuck together, run the package under warm water for 30 seconds to break them apart.
• Batch-cook and freeze multiple portions so you always have a quick dinner option.
• Use the leftover sauce to flavor rice, roasted potatoes, or steamed veggies.
• Want it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes before cooking.
• Keep a few packs of Instant Pot Frozen Chimichurri Chicken in the freezer so you always have a quick dinner ready.
• Pair this easy weeknight chicken recipe with roasted potatoes or a quick salad to round out the meal in minutes.