Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot Recipe

If you’re searching for pure comfort that feels like a warm hug from your favorite grandmother, look no further than Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot. This is the kind of meal that turns a simple weeknight dinner into an event, filling your kitchen with memories and aromas of days gone by, yet made effortless with modern convenience. Tender chicken, an irresistible golden gravy, and all the heart and soul of home cooking—this recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot is how it delivers incredible flavor without complicated shopping lists. Each ingredient earns its place, from the chicken’s juicy tenderness to the savory brightness of simple veggies and aromatics. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this showstopper.

• Chicken thighs or drumsticks: Choose bone-in, skin-on for depth of flavor and extra juicy results.
• Yellow onions: They break down into the gravy, lending both sweetness and body to the sauce.
• Carrots: Classic for sweetness and color; slice them thick for bites that hold up beautifully.
• Celery: Provides a savory, aromatic backbone that rounds out the vegetables.
• Garlic cloves: Don’t skimp—fresh garlic adds rich, familiar warmth to the entire dish.
• Chicken broth: Homemade is wonderful, but low-sodium store-bought keeps things easy and flavorful.
• All-purpose flour: Helps create that signature savory gravy—just like Bubbe used to make.
• Olive oil or schmaltz: Schmaltz (chicken fat) brings authentic Jewish flavor, but olive oil works well too.
• Bay leaf: A single leaf adds unexpected depth and a touch of tradition.
• Fresh thyme or dried thyme: Just a bit of thyme complements the chicken and adds gentle complexity.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer, so don’t be shy.

How to Make Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and let it heat up. Add olive oil or schmaltz, then carefully lay the chicken pieces skin-side down. Searing isn’t just about color—it locks in juices and gives the finished gravy those rich, brown flecks that make friends and family swoon. Work in batches if needed so every piece has a chance to get golden. Set the seared chicken aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

With all those delicious bits left in the bottom, toss in your chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring and scraping up the flavorful fond, until the onions become translucent and everything smells heavenly. Add the garlic last, just until fragrant—you don’t want it to burn.

Step 3: Build the Gravy Base

Sprinkle flour directly over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat. This creates the thickening base for your gravy. Cook for a minute or two, letting the raw flour taste cook out, then pour in a splash of the chicken broth to form a smooth, lump-free paste. Gradually add the rest of the broth, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Return the chicken to the Instant Pot with any accumulated juices. Add the bay leaf and thyme, then lock the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for about 12 minutes (use the manual or pressure cook function). As it cooks, the chicken becomes impossibly tender, soaking up all those savory flavors.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the pressure cycle ends, let the pressure release naturally for 5–10 minutes before using quick release. Carefully remove the chicken, discard the bay leaf, and give the gravy a good stir. If you like your gravy thicker, switch back to ‘Sauté’ and simmer a few extra minutes. Nestle the chicken back in, garnish generously, and serve piping hot—the essence of Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot ready to dazzle at your table.

How to Serve Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley brightens both the look and flavor, while a dusting of cracked pepper or even a few dill sprigs adds lovely herbal lift. If you want to honor tradition, a sprinkle of schmaltz before serving brings an extra-special, old-world richness.

Side Dishes

Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot deserves sides that soak up every drop of sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy egg noodles, or classic matzo farfel are all perfect partners. Steamed green beans or a simple cucumber salad add freshness to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic family meal, serve everything straight from the Instant Pot and let everyone ladle gravy onto their plates. For a more elegant spin, arrange portions over a bed of polenta or mashed cauliflower and spoon the glossy gravy artistically over the top. Individual shallow bowls make for cozy, comforting presentation, especially with fresh bread for mopping up every last bit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store it in airtight containers for up to 4 days—the flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even better than tonight’s dinner.

Freezing

This dish is freezer-friendly! Once cooled, pack chicken and gravy into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, and don’t forget to label with the date. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture (and safety).

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy. The microwave works in a pinch—cover and use gentle power to avoid drying out the chicken. Stir occasionally so everything heats evenly, and add fresh herbs just before serving to revive those flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You absolutely can, but keep in mind that thighs and drumsticks are more forgiving and tend to stay juicy under pressure. If you go with breasts, reduce the pressure cook time by a few minutes to avoid dryness.

What if I don’t have schmaltz? Is olive oil really okay?

Yes! While schmaltz brings authentic old-world flavor to Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot, olive oil offers a lighter but equally delicious result. You can even use a blend of both if you’re feeling adventurous.

How do I make the gravy even thicker?

After cooking, remove the chicken and set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté.’ Simmer the sauce uncovered, stirring often, until it reduces to your desired thickness. For a shortcut, whisk in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and simmer for a minute or two.

Can I add potatoes to the Instant Pot with the chicken?

Definitely! Quartered Yukon Gold or red potatoes can cook alongside the chicken. They’ll soak up the gravy’s flavor and make the meal even heartier. Just make sure there’s still plenty of liquid in the pot, as potatoes will absorb some as they cook.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As written, Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot uses wheat flour to build the gravy. However, you can swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, or use cornstarch dissolved in broth for thickening—the results will be just as comforting and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Few recipes capture the magic of home quite like Bubbe’s Chicken and Gravy in an Instant Pot. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights, yet special enough for Shabbat or Sunday supper. So gather loved ones, pass the gravy, and enjoy the feast—because this dish is bound to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen too.

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