Anchor Chicken

On The Table

Jul 21

Anchor Chicken (Electric Pressure Cooker)

Yield: 8

Author: Lauren Cohen, MS, RDN

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 16 MinPressure Cook: 6 MinNatural Release: 10 MinRest: 5 MinCome to Pressure: 10 MinTotal time: 52 Min

Anchor Chicken is a simple, versatile protein that makes healthy meals easier throughout the week. Prepare one batch, then use it in salads, grain bowls, wraps, soups, tacos, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and more. The goal isn't to eat the same meal every day—it's to have a nourishing foundation that makes healthy choices more convenient.

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Ingredients

3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 teaspoons kosher salt
2 Dorot® garlic cubes, thawed (or 4 cloves garlic, minced)
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional)

Instructions

Stovetop Method

Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of a 6- or 8-quart electric pressure cooker.
Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer. Sprinkle evenly with the kosher salt and garlic.
Secure the lid and set the pressure release valve to Sealing.
Cook on High Pressure for 6 minutes.
When the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
Check that the thickest chicken breast has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If needed, reseal the pressure cooker and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes.
Slice, dice, or shred the chicken. If shredding, return it to the cooking liquid for 2–3 minutes or toss with a few spoonfuls of the cooking liquid before storing to help keep it moist.

Notes

Cooking Notes:

• Chicken breasts vary in size and thickness. Always check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using an instant-read thermometer.

• If using very large chicken breasts (10 ounces or more each), you may need to add 1–2 minutes of cooking time.

• For the juiciest results, allow the chicken to rest before slicing or shredding, and stir a few spoonfuls of the cooking liquid into the chicken before storing.

Storage:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

For the best texture, reserve a little of the cooking liquid and stir it into the chicken before refrigerating or reheating.

Lauren's Tip:

Anchor Chicken is designed to be a foundation, not a finished meal. Keeping the seasoning simple makes it easy to use in a variety of recipes throughout the week. Add sauces, herbs, spices, or dressings when you're ready to turn it into wraps, grain bowls, salads, soups, tacos, pasta dishes, or sandwiches.

Turn Anchor Chicken Into:

• Italian Pasta Bowl: Warm chicken with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Serve over whole wheat pasta, spaghetti squash, or zucchini noodles. Top with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

• Taco Bowl: Toss chicken with taco seasoning and a splash of salsa. Serve in corn tortillas, over brown rice, or on a taco salad with black beans, avocado, and shredded lettuce.

• Greek Grain Bowl: Combine chicken with fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley or dill, cucumber, tomatoes, and a dollop of tzatziki. Serve over quinoa or with a whole wheat pita.

• BBQ Chicken Sandwich: Warm shredded chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce (about 2–3 tablespoons per serving). Serve on a whole grain bun with coleslaw or alongside a baked sweet potato and roasted vegetables.

• Buffalo Chicken Salad: Toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and serve over a chopped salad with celery, carrots, cucumber, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

• Asian Chicken & Rice Bowl: Toss chicken with low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari), grated fresh ginger, garlic, and a drizzle of toasted sesame oil. Serve with brown rice and steamed broccoli or snap peas.

Ways to Use Anchor Chicken:

• Salads

• Grain bowls

• Wraps and pitas

• Tacos or quesadillas

• Pasta dishes

• Soups

• Chicken salad

• Stuffed baked potatoes or sweet potatoes

• Pizza or flatbread

• Pair with roasted vegetables and a whole grain for a quick dinner