Let’s be honest, the Instant Pot earns its keep when it delivers big flavor with minimal effort, and even more so when those meals are packed with protein.
Whether you’re eating keto, low carb, or just trying to stay full and energized, these recipes check all the right boxes.
At Green and Keto, we’re all about meals that feel comforting, practical, and genuinely enjoyable, not like a compromise. This list brings together hearty, protein-forward Instant Pot dinners that work for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, and everything in between.
Below you’ll find the full lineup of 25, and then we’ll dive into the first five in delicious detail.
1. Instant Pot Keto Beef Chili
This is the kind of chili that sticks with you, in the best way. Rich, meaty, and deeply spiced, it delivers serious protein without beans or added sugar.
⏱ 10 min prep | 25 min cook | 35 min total
Start with 2 lb (900 g) ground beef, preferably 85 percent lean, browned right in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, 1 small onion finely chopped, and 3 cloves garlic minced, letting everything soften and get fragrant.
Stir in 2 tbsp (30 g) tomato paste, 2 cups (480 mL) beef broth, 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes, and a bold spice mix of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Salt and black pepper bring it all together.
Pressure cook on high, then let it naturally release for a few minutes. The result is thick, hearty chili with deep flavor and plenty of protein per bowl.
Tip: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne if you like heat.
Full recipe via Modern Honey.
2. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs
Juicy chicken thighs and a velvety sauce are a match made in weeknight heaven. This one feels indulgent but stays firmly in high-protein territory.
⏱ 10 min prep | 20 min cook | 30 min total
Season 2 lb (900 g) boneless chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté them in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter until lightly golden.
Add 1 cup (240 mL) of chicken broth and pressure cook until the chicken is fall-apart tender. Finish with 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream and ¾ cup (75 g) grated Parmesan, stirring until silky and rich.
The sauce clings beautifully to the chicken, making every bite savory and satisfying.
Tip: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for color and extra nutrients.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
3. Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
Bold spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, no marinating marathon required. This Instant Pot version gets straight to the good part.
⏱ 15 min prep | 25 min cook | 40 min total
Use 2 lb (900 g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks. Sauté with 1 tbsp (15 mL) ghee, onion, garlic, and ginger until aromatic.
Add garam masala, paprika, turmeric, and cumin, followed by 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes. Pressure cook, then stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream for that signature richness.
Serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it straight from the bowl. Can you blame us?
Tip: A squeeze of lemon brightens the spices beautifully.
Full recipe via Little Sunny Kitchen.
4. Pulled Pork with Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
This pulled pork is juicy, smoky, and endlessly versatile. It’s perfect for meal prep and somehow tastes even better the next day.
⏱ 10 min prep | 60 min cook | 1 hr 10 min total
Start with a 3 lb (1.4 kg) pork shoulder, rubbed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add 1 cup (240 mL) beef or chicken broth to the pot.
Pressure cook until the pork shreds effortlessly. Toss with a sugar-free BBQ sauce and let it soak up all that flavor.
Pile it into lettuce wraps or pair it with roasted veggies for a protein-packed meal.
Tip: Broil the shredded pork briefly for crispy edges.
Full recipe via Kylie Cooks.
5. Lemon Herb Turkey Breast
Lean, bright, and surprisingly juicy, turkey breast shines in the Instant Pot. This recipe proves turkey doesn’t have to be boring.
⏱ 10 min prep | 35 min cook | 45 min total
Rub a 2.5 lb (1.1 kg) turkey breast with 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Add 1 cup (240 mL) of chicken broth to the pot.
Pressure cook until perfectly tender, then slice and spoon the lemony pan juices over the top. It’s clean, comforting, and loaded with protein.
Tip: Use leftovers for high-protein salads or wraps.
Full recipe via The Chunky Chef.
6. Instant Pot Butter Chicken
Rich, creamy, and deeply spiced, butter chicken is one of those meals that feels like a treat, even when it fits perfectly into a high-protein plan.
⏱ 15 min prep | 25 min cook | 40 min total
Start with 2 lb (900 g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into chunks. Sauté them in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter with onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant and lightly golden.
Add 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes, 1 tbsp (15 g) garam masala, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Pressure cook until the chicken is tender, then stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream and another 1 tbsp (15 g) butter.
The sauce turns silky and luxurious, coating every piece of chicken with warming spice and richness.
Tip: Serve over cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb and satisfying.
Full recipe via Recipes from a Pantry.
7. Pressure Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This takeout favorite becomes a weeknight staple once you realize how protein-packed and fast it can be at home.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min cook | 25 min total
Slice 1.5 lb (680 g) flank steak thinly against the grain. Sauté briefly in 1 tbsp (15 mL) avocado oil to lock in flavor.
Add ¾ cup (180 mL) beef broth, ¼ cup (60 mL) low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, garlic, and ginger. Pressure cook, then toss in 3 cups (270 g) broccoli florets and let them steam in the residual heat.
The beef stays tender, the sauce clings beautifully, and the protein payoff is real.
Tip: Thicken the sauce with a pinch of xanthan gum if desired.
Full recipe via Natasha’s Kitchen.
8. Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and cream turn simple chicken into something that feels restaurant-worthy, no kidding.
⏱ 10 min prep | 20 min cook | 30 min total
Season 2 lb (900 g) chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sauté in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil. Add 1 cup (240 mL) of chicken broth and pressure cook until juicy and tender.
Finish with ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream, ½ cup (70 g) chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a handful of spinach. Stir gently until everything wilts and melds together.
It’s creamy, savory, and incredibly filling, exactly the kind of meal we love sharing at Green and Keto.
Tip: Add grated Parmesan for extra depth.
Full recipe via Delish.
9. Instant Pot Chicken Fajita Bowls
Bright, smoky, and endlessly customizable, these fajita bowls are perfect for meal prep without getting boring.
⏱ 10 min prep | 15 min cook | 25 min total
Slice 2 lb (900 g) chicken breast into strips and toss with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and salt. Add to the Instant Pot with sliced bell peppers, onion, and ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook briefly, then stir everything together for perfectly seasoned, juicy chicken and veggies. Spoon it over cauliflower rice or eat it straight from the bowl.
Every bite delivers protein with bold Tex-Mex flair.
Tip: Finish with fresh lime juice for brightness.
Full recipe via Our Salty Kitchen.
10. Keto Instant Pot Meatballs
These meatballs are tender, juicy, and surprisingly versatile, perfect for sauces, bowls, or simple snacking.
⏱ 15 min prep | 10 min cook | 25 min total
Mix 2 lb (900 g) ground beef with 1 egg, ½ cup (50 g) almond flour, ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Roll into evenly sized meatballs.
Place them on a trivet with 1 cup (240 mL) of beef broth underneath and pressure cook until perfectly done. Finish with your favorite low-carb marinara or creamy sauce.
High protein, low carb, and incredibly satisfying.
Tip: Swap half the beef for ground pork for extra juiciness.
Full recipe via Mom’s Dinner.
11. Instant Pot Pork Carnitas
Crispy-edged, juicy carnitas without babysitting a stovetop? Yes, please. This one delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
⏱ 10 min prep | 60 min cook | 1 hr 10 min total
Start with a 3 lb (1.4 kg) pork shoulder, cut into large chunks. Season with salt, cumin, oregano, and chili powder, then add to the Instant Pot with ¾ cup (180 mL) chicken broth, juice of 1 orange, and juice of 1 lime.
Pressure cook until the pork shreds easily. Shred and briefly broil for crispy edges that make all the difference.
Serve in lettuce cups or over cauliflower rice for a protein-packed meal that never feels heavy.
Tip: Save the cooking liquid to drizzle over the pork for extra moisture.
Full recipe via Kitchen Sanctuary.
12. High-Protein Chicken and Mushroom wild rice
Comforting, savory, and surprisingly light, this stew is all about deep flavor and serious staying power.
⏱ 15 min prep | 30 min cook | 45 min total
Brown 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, then remove and set aside. Sauté 12 oz (340 g) mushrooms with garlic and thyme until golden.
Return the chicken to the pot with 2 cups (480 mL) chicken broth and pressure cook until tender. The mushrooms soak up the broth, creating a rich, savory base without needing cream.
This is the kind of bowl that warms you from the inside out.
Tip: Finish with a splash of cream if you want extra richness.
Full recipe via Damn Delicious.
13. Instant Pot Lamb Curry
Hearty, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, lamb curry is a protein-rich dinner that feels special without being fussy.
⏱ 15 min prep | 40 min cook | 55 min total
Use 2 lb (900 g) lamb shoulder, cut into chunks. Sauté with onion, garlic, ginger, and curry spices in 1 tbsp (15 mL) ghee.
Add 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes and 1 cup (240 mL) beef broth. Pressure cook until the lamb is meltingly tender and infused with spice.
The sauce is bold and warming, perfect for spooning over cauliflower rice.
Tip: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and contrast.
Full recipe via Yellow Thyme.
14. Creamy Cajun Sausage and Chicken
Smoky sausage, juicy chicken, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce make this one impossible to forget.
⏱ 10 min prep | 25 min cook | 35 min total
Slice 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage and brown it with 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, and 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook briefly, then stir in ¾ cup (180 mL) heavy cream. The sauce thickens beautifully, coating every bite with bold, spicy flavor.
It’s hearty, high protein, and pure comfort.
Tip: Adjust Cajun seasoning to control the heat level.
Full recipe via Budget Bytes.
15. Instant Pot Greek Chicken
Bright, herby, and wonderfully simple, this Greek-inspired chicken is a refreshing change of pace.
⏱ 10 min prep | 20 min cook | 30 min total
Season 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs with oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add to the pot with ½ cup (120 mL) chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Pressure cook until tender, then finish with crumbled feta and fresh parsley. The lemony juices double as a light, flavorful sauce.
Clean flavors, high protein, and perfect for easy weeknight dinners, just how we like it at Green and Keto.
Tip: Serve with a cucumber and olive salad for a full meal.
Full recipe via Damn Delicious.
16. Keto Beef Stroganoff
Creamy, savory, and deeply comforting, this stroganoff proves you don’t need noodles to make it satisfying.
⏱ 15 min prep | 30 min cook | 45 min total
Slice 2 lb (900 g) beef sirloin or stew meat into bite-sized pieces. Sauté in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter until lightly browned, then add sliced onion and garlic.
Pour in 1½ cups (360 mL) of beef broth and pressure cook until the beef is fork-tender. Finish with ¾ cup (180 mL) sour cream and 1 tsp Dijon mustard for that classic tang.
Rich, cozy, and loaded with protein, this one is a cold-night favorite.
Tip: Serve over cauliflower mash to soak up the sauce.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
17. Instant Pot Whole Chicken
Sometimes, simple is best. A whole chicken in the Instant Pot is juicy, reliable, and endlessly useful for high-protein meals all week long.
⏱ 10 min prep | 25 min cook | 35 min total
Rub a 4 lb (1.8 kg) whole chicken with 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Place it on a trivet with 1 cup (240 mL) of chicken broth underneath.
Pressure cook until tender, then rest briefly before carving. The meat is moist, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep.
Tip: Broil for 5 minutes if you want crispy skin.
Full recipe via Damn Delicious.
18. Thai Peanut Chicken (Low Carb)
Creamy, nutty, and just a little spicy, this Thai-inspired chicken brings big flavor with minimal carbs.
⏱ 10 min prep | 20 min cook | 30 min total
Add 2 lb (900 g) chicken breast to the Instant Pot with ¾ cup (180 mL) coconut milk, ¼ cup (60 g) natural peanut butter, garlic, ginger, and red curry paste.
Pressure cook until the chicken is tender, then stir the sauce until smooth and glossy. The result is rich without being heavy.
Serve with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice for a high-protein dinner you’ll crave again.
Tip: Finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro for balance.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
19. Instant Pot Salsa Verde Chicken
This is the definition of effortless cooking. Three main ingredients, big protein payoff, and endless ways to use it.
⏱ 5 min prep | 20 min cook | 25 min total
Place 2.5 lb (1.1 kg) chicken breasts in the pot and cover with 1½ cups (360 mL) salsa verde. Add a pinch of salt and garlic powder.
Pressure cook until the chicken shreds easily, then pull it apart right in the sauce. It’s juicy, tangy, and incredibly versatile.
Use it in bowls, lettuce wraps, or straight from the fridge for quick meals.
Tip: Add a spoonful of sour cream for a creamy variation.
Full recipe via Zestful Kitchen.
20. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Fast, flavorful, and surprisingly filling, this shrimp dish proves high-protein dinners don’t have to take long.
⏱ 5 min prep | 2 min cook | 7 min total
Add 2 lb (900 g) raw shrimp to the Instant Pot with 2 tbsp (30 g) butter, 4 cloves of garlic minced, salt, and pepper. Pressure cook briefly, then release immediately.
Finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, coated in garlicky butter.
Perfect for nights when cooking feels optional but protein still matters.
Tip: Toss with zucchini noodles for a quick bowl.
Full recipe via The Cozy Cook.
21. Pressure Cooker Turkey Chili
Lean, hearty, and deeply flavorful, turkey chili is one of those dinners that checks every box without trying too hard.
⏱ 10 min prep | 25 min cook | 35 min total
Brown 2 lb (900 g) ground turkey using the sauté function with 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, onion, and garlic. Stir in 2 tbsp (30 g) tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Add 2 cups (480 mL) chicken broth and 1 cup (240 g) crushed tomatoes, then pressure cook until thick and fragrant. The result is protein-packed comfort that doesn’t weigh you down.
Tip: Top with avocado or shredded cheese if it fits your macros.
Full recipe via Recipe Runner.
22. Instant Pot Short Ribs
Fall-apart tender short ribs feel like a special-occasion meal, but the Instant Pot makes them weeknight-friendly.
⏱ 15 min prep | 45 min cook | 1 hr total
Season 3 lb (1.4 kg) beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then brown in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil. Add onion, garlic, and 1½ cups (360 mL) beef broth.
Pressure cook until the meat pulls clean from the bone. The sauce is rich, savory, and perfect for spooning over mashed cauliflower.
Tip: Let the sauce reduce slightly on the sauté for extra depth.
Full recipe via My Korean Kitchen.
23. Keto Chicken Paprikash
Smoky paprika, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce make this Hungarian classic a serious comfort dish.
⏱ 10 min prep | 30 min cook | 40 min total
Sauté 2 lb (900 g) chicken thighs with onion and garlic in 1 tbsp (15 mL) butter. Stir in 2 tbsp (16 g) sweet paprika and 1 cup (240 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook until tender, then finish with ¾ cup (180 mL) sour cream. The sauce turns velvety and deeply savory.
This one’s cozy, filling, and quietly impressive.
Tip: Serve with roasted cabbage or cauliflower rice.
Full recipe via Recipe Runner.
24. Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
Lean but juicy, pork tenderloin shines in the Instant Pot when cooked just right.
⏱ 10 min prep | 20 min cook | 30 min total
Season a 2 lb (900 g) pork tenderloin with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear in 1 tbsp (15 mL) olive oil, then add ¾ cup (180 mL) chicken broth.
Pressure cook until just tender, then rest before slicing. The meat stays moist and protein-dense without feeling heavy.
Tip: Finish with a mustard-cream sauce for extra flavor.
Full recipe via Salt and Lavender.
25. High-Protein Egg Roll in a Bowl
All the flavor of an egg roll, none of the wrapper. Fast, filling, and perfect for busy nights.
⏱ 10 min prep | 10 min cook | 20 min total
Brown 2 lb (900 g) ground pork or turkey with garlic and ginger. Add 6 cups (420 g) shredded cabbage, soy sauce or coconut aminos, and a splash of sesame oil.
Pressure cook briefly, then stir everything together. It’s savory, crunchy-tender, and packed with protein in every bite.
Tip: Top with green onions and sesame seeds for crunch.
Full recipe via 40 Aprons.
Final Thoughts
And that’s all 25. From cozy stews to lightning-fast shrimp, this list proves the Instant Pot is a powerhouse for high-protein cooking.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, eating keto, or just trying to make weeknights easier, these recipes give you options without overwhelm.
That balance of flavor, nutrition, and real-life practicality is exactly what we aim for here at Green and Keto.
Save your favorites, rotate often, and enjoy every pressure-cooked win along the way.
