Instant Pot lemon chicken with garlic and olives recipe
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Oct 2025
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Instant Pot Lemon Chicken with Garlic and Olives is a high-protein dish that beautifully marries the zesty brightness of lemon with the savoury depth of garlic and olives. The fragrant herbs and spices, including rosemary and thyme, infuse the chicken thighs with a rich flavour, while the use of an Instant Pot ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy. This dish not only offers a comforting aroma but also presents a vibrant and appealing plate that's sure to impress.
Ideal for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is both wholesome and satisfying. Packed with protein from the chicken and enhanced by the umami of olives and anchovies, it supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and nourishing meal that everyone will enjoy.
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Ingredients for Instant pot lemon chicken with garlic and olives
15 ml extra virgin olive oil, plus more as needed
900 g bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, patted dry (4–6, depending on size)
5 ml kosher salt, plus more if needed
1 g freshly ground black pepper
120 ml chicken stock, preferably homemade
50 g mixed pitted olives
4 thin slices lemon
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 anchovy fillets, chopped (optional)
15 g drained capers
5 ml fresh rosemary needles, chopped
5 ml fresh thyme leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
2 g fennel seeds, lightly crushed with a mortar and pestle or with the flat side of a knife
How to make Instant pot lemon chicken with garlic and olives
Set your pressure cooker to the sauté function on high and heat the oil in the pot.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then arrange it in a single layer in the pot, skin-side down. If the chicken doesn’t fit in a single layer, work in batches, adding more oil as needed. Cook without moving for about 8 minutes, or until well browned on one side.
Flip the chicken, then pour in the stock. Scatter the olives, lemon slices, garlic, anchovies (if using), capers, rosemary, thyme, and fennel seeds over the top.
Lock the lid in place and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to naturally release.
Discard the lemon slices and transfer the chicken to serving plates, keeping it loosely tented with foil.
Using the sauté function, bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve, garnished with thyme.
For a slow-cooked version, after step 3, set the pressure cooker to slow cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 4–5 hours.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Oct 2025 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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