10 One-Pot Wonders: Instant Pot & Slow Cooker Meals For Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights often mean rushing dinner prep, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or variety. “10 One-Pot Wonders” offers a collection of tasty meals designed for your Instant Pot and slow cooker, ensuring you can whip up satisfying dishes with minimal fuss. From delicious stews to savory pasta, these recipes make cooking effortless, so you can enjoy quality time with family or simply unwind after a long day.

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor and super easy to whip up. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. This meal brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick.

This dish is not only simple to make, but it’s also a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze! It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken has you covered.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the chicken on both sides for about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
3. Close the lid and set the pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. After cooking, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
4. Remove the chicken and set aside. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian seasoning into the pot. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to coat.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken with pasta or rice!

Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan

Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan is a creamy and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The rich flavors of earthy mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of risotto create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

This recipe is simple to make, utilizing either your Instant Pot or slow cooker. It allows you to focus on your evening while the dish cooks to perfection. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In your Instant Pot or slow cooker, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it in the oil and mixture for about 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.
5. If using an Instant Pot, close the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 6 minutes. For a slow cooker, set it on low for 3-4 hours.
6. Once finished, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp

Lemon Herb Grilled Shrimp is a quick and delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with zesty flavors and aromatic herbs, it offers a bright and refreshing taste that pairs well with rice, salads, or just on its own. This recipe is simple to make and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal after a long day.

The combination of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade that elevates the shrimp. Whether you use an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, you can achieve perfectly cooked shrimp that are juicy and tender. Let’s get started with this easy recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat well. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Instant Pot: If using an Instant Pot, add a cup of water to the bottom of the pot. Place a steamer basket inside and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 2 minutes. Once done, quickly release the steam.
4. Serve: Remove the shrimp and serve immediately with additional lemon wedges and parsley for garnish. Enjoy your flavorful dish!

Spicy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

This Spicy Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights. With tender pieces of beef and crunchy broccoli, it’s packed with flavor that comes from a simple sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and a kick of chili. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.

Ideal for those looking for satisfying beef dinner recipes, this stir-fry can be served over rice or noodles for a complete meal. The best part? It’s a flexible recipe, meaning you can add in any other veggies you have on hand. Get ready to enjoy a hearty, spicy delight in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thin
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons chili paste (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, broccoli, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the soy sauce and chili paste, stirring to combine. Let it cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional minute until glossy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and garnish with green onions before serving.

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Buffalo Chicken Pasta is a spicy, creamy delight that combines the zest of buffalo sauce with the comforting texture of pasta. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but is also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender chicken, rich cheese, and a hint of heat creates a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Whether you’re using an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, this recipe comes together quickly and easily. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy hearty crockpot meals without the fuss. Ready for a delicious dinner? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 cups pasta (like penne or rigatoni)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the Instant Pot or slow cooker.
2. Add the Sauce: Pour the buffalo sauce and chicken broth over the chicken.
3. Cook: If using an Instant Pot, close the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. For a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and stir in the cream cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Cook the Pasta: In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the chicken mixture.
6. Mix and Serve: Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Top with crumbled blue cheese and green onions before serving.

Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Chili

This Vegetarian Quinoa and Black Bean Chili is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, slightly spicy, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for the whole family! The combination of quinoa and black beans provides a great source of protein, and the vibrant veggies add a nice crunch.

Making this chili is a breeze, whether you use your Instant Pot or slow cooker. Just toss in all the ingredients, let it simmer, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you. It’s an easy recipe that allows you to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Avocado slices, for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, diced tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and vegetable broth. Stir well to mix.
2. Cook in Instant Pot: Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 10 minutes. Release the pressure naturally for about 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Alternatively, in a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours.
3. Season: Once cooked, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro and avocado slices. Enjoy your warm, delicious meal!

Garlic Parmesan Risotto with Spinach

Garlic Parmesan Risotto with Spinach is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich garlic flavor and the nutty taste of Parmesan, this risotto is both satisfying and hearty. Plus, adding fresh spinach not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutrition, making it a well-rounded meal.

This recipe is simple to make, especially in an Instant Pot or slow cooker. It requires minimal hands-on time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while it cooks. Your family will love this easy, flavorful dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot or slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant.
2. Add the Arborio rice, stirring to coat it in the oil for about 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and season with salt and pepper. For an Instant Pot, set to high pressure for 6 minutes; for a slow cooker, cook on low for 2-3 hours.
4. Once finished, stir in the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve warm, adjusting seasoning as desired.

One-Pot Mediterranean Chickpea Stew

This One-Pot Mediterranean Chickpea Stew is a delightful mix of vibrant flavors and textures that brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With chickpeas as the star ingredient, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying choice for any busy weeknight. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, requiring just one pot and minimal prep time.

The stew is hearty yet light, infused with a variety of fresh vegetables like tomatoes and bell peppers, and is seasoned with aromatic herbs. It’s perfect for those looking for healthy, comforting meals that don’t take much time to prepare. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup black olives, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
3. Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, olives, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Once done, garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chickpea Stew!

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is a simple, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its savory, slightly sweet teriyaki sauce, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, this dish offers a comforting balance of flavors. The best part? You can whip it up in either an Instant Pot or a slow cooker, making it super easy to fit into your schedule.

This recipe is all about convenience. You can throw everything in, set it, and forget it while you take care of other tasks. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is a satisfying choice that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and snap peas)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In the Instant Pot or slow cooker, add the chicken thighs and pour the teriyaki sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Add Rice and Broth: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water. Layer the rice on top of the chicken, then pour the chicken broth over everything without stirring.
3. Cook: For the Instant Pot, seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then allow for a natural release. For the slow cooker, cook on low for about 4-6 hours.
4. Add Vegetables: If using the slow cooker, add the mixed vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking. In the Instant Pot, mix in the vegetables after the pressure is released and let them sit for a few minutes to steam.
5. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, and serve the chicken and rice in bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before enjoying!

Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and sour pork is a delightful dish that brings together juicy pork chunks and vibrant vegetables in a tangy sauce. With a balance of sweetness and a hint of acidity, this meal is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe can be whipped up in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it over rice or enjoying it on its own, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup bell peppers (red and green), chopped
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
2. Place the pork, bell peppers, onion, and pineapple in the slow cooker or Instant Pot.
3. Pour the sauce over the meat and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For the Instant Pot, set it to pressure cook for 15 minutes and allow a natural release.
5. Once cooked, taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve over rice or noodles and enjoy your sweet and sour pork!