Some meals just feel like home — no matter how fast you pull them together. That’s exactly what this Instant Pot Greek chicken and potatoes delivers.
It’s got that deep garlic-herb flavor you’d expect from a long roast, only it comes together in less than 40 minutes. We’ve made it for family dinners and weekday lunches — the kind of food that fills the house with a citrusy, savory smell while you’re doing other things.
It’s a no-fuss one-pot dish that covers both the protein and starch, and it still tastes like something you’d serve to guests.
Why This Pressure Cooker Recipe Actually Works
The pressure cooker makes chicken juicy, not dry. At the same time, it gives the potatoes a soft texture with edges that hold up.
What we like most is how the lemon, garlic, and oregano soak into everything. It doesn’t need fancy ingredients. Just a smart combo of flavors and the right timing.
- Chicken thighs stay moist and flavorful
- Potatoes soak up the broth, garlic, and citrus
- No need to brown the chicken first
- Everything cooks together in one go
- Works for lunch, dinner, or prep-ahead meals
Simple Ingredients for a Full-Flavor Result
You don’t need a long list to build something satisfying. These are the only things you really need:
- Bone-in chicken thighs – They hold flavor better and stay juicy
- Yukon Gold potatoes – Waxy and soft without falling apart
- Garlic and oregano – The base of that Greek flavor
- Lemon juice – Adds brightness to balance the savory notes
- Chicken broth – Keeps it moist and turns into a flavorful sauce
A little olive oil and salt bring it all together. Optional: toss in a few olives at the end or serve with crumbled feta.
How to Cook Greek Chicken and Potatoes in the Instant Pot
It’s all about layering the flavors the right way and letting the pressure do its thing.
- Season and Sear (Optional)
Rub chicken with salt, oregano, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can skip browning, or sear for 2 minutes per side in sauté mode if you like a bit of color. - Add Potatoes and Liquid
Place cut potatoes in the pot. Nestle chicken on top. Pour in broth, lemon juice, and more garlic if you’re a fan. - Pressure Cook
Seal the lid. Cook on HIGH for 10 minutes, then let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. Quick release the rest. - Finish and Serve
Remove the lid. Stir the potatoes in the sauce to coat. Optional: broil everything for 5 minutes to get a roasted finish.
Easy Add-Ons That Go Well With It
This dish is balanced as-is, but it plays well with a few extras on the plate.
Side Dish | Why It Works |
---|---|
Cucumber tomato salad | Adds crunch and contrast |
Tzatziki sauce | Cools things down and adds tang |
Warm pita or flatbread | Great for mopping up the sauce |
Steamed green beans | Light and earthy to balance the dish |
Feta with olives | Briny, salty counterpoint to the lemon |
Roasted red peppers | Sweetness to round out the plate |
Greek rice pilaf | Doubles down on the Mediterranean feel |
Storage and Quick Reheat Tips
Leftovers reheat well and get even better the next day.
- Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 4 days
- Reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of broth
- Freeze: Keep chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months
Common Questions About This Recipe
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless thighs or breasts work too — reduce pressure time to 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Will red potatoes work instead?
They’ll hold up fine, just make sure they’re cut smaller than Yukon Golds.
Can I add vegetables?
Zucchini or bell peppers work, but stir them in after pressure cooking so they don’t turn mushy.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Not necessary. The Instant Pot builds flavor quickly, so no marination is required.
Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Potatoes
Equipment
- Instant Pot For pressure cooking everything together
- Tongs To handle and shred the chicken if desired
- Measuring cup For broth and lemon juice
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs skin removed if preferred
- 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes cut into chunks
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon juiced
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Rub chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and half the minced garlic.
- Place potatoes into the Instant Pot. Layer seasoned chicken thighs on top.
- Add broth, lemon juice, and remaining garlic. Seal lid and set to HIGH pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release the rest.
- Remove chicken and potatoes. Optional: broil for 5 minutes for crispy edges before serving.
Notes
- Broiling after pressure cooking adds a crisp, roasted texture.
- Can substitute chicken breasts, but reduce cook time to 8 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, olives, or crumbled feta before serving.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.