Instant Pot Chicken Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables:

   • Pour olive oil into the Instant Pot and press the "Saute" button. Set it for 7 minutes.
   • Once the pot is heated (about 1 minute), add celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
   • Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1 more minute.

2. Pressure Cook:

   • Add soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce), chicken thighs, diced potatoes, chicken broth, and bay leaves to the Instant Pot.
   • Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to "Seal."
   • Pressure cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
   • Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully release the remaining pressure manually.

3. Shred Chicken:

   • Remove the chicken thighs to a cutting board and shred them using two forks. Alternatively, shred them directly in the Instant Pot using forks.
   • Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

4. Add Peas:

   • Stir in the frozen peas and let them heat through for about 1 minute.

5. Thicken Stew:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together milk and cornstarch until smooth.
   • Pour the milk-cornstarch mixture into the stew in the Instant Pot.

6. Simmer and Serve:

   • Switch the Instant Pot to "Saute" mode again and set it for 6 minutes.
   • Allow the stew to simmer and thicken slightly while stirring occasionally.
   • Once thickened to your desired consistency, turn off the Instant Pot.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes:

• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
• This stew is comforting and hearty, perfect for a cozy meal.

Enjoy your Instant Pot Chicken Stew with family and friends!