If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is the answer. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings tender chicken, fluffy rice, and flavorful seasonings together in no time. With the help of your Instant Pot, you can have a hearty, homemade dinner on the table without the hassle. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this hearty meal:
- 1 lb (about 2 medium) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
Timing
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Pressure Release: 10 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chicken and Rice in the Instant Pot
Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Brown the Chicken: Add your diced chicken to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked through yet).
Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Pour in the chicken broth, giving everything a good stir.
Add Vegetables: Add the carrots and peas on top of the rice, but don’t mix them in. They’ll steam perfectly on top as the rice cooks.
Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
Fluff and Serve: Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve.
Best Cuts of Chicken for Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
I’ve tried this recipe with both boneless chicken breasts and chicken thighs, and both work wonderfully. If you prefer a juicier, more flavorful result, go with chicken thighs. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless breasts are a great choice.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Rice in the Instant Pot
1- Rinse the rice: This removes excess starch and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
2- Broth-to-rice ratio: Stick to the 1:1.5 rice-to-liquid ratio to ensure your rice comes out tender but not mushy.
3- Layering is key: When adding vegetables, keep them on top so they steam instead of becoming mushy in the broth.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice: Cooking Times and Settings
For long-grain white rice, a cooking time of 10 minutes under high pressure is perfect. If using brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to 22 minutes with an additional cup of broth.
Healthy Variations: How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Gluten-Free or Low-Carb
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use a gluten-free chicken broth.
- Low-Carb: Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice and add it after pressure cooking. Use the sauté mode to heat it through.
Adding Vegetables to Your Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
You can easily mix up the veggies based on what you have. Broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini work beautifully. Add sturdier vegetables like carrots and broccoli before cooking, but stir in delicate ones like spinach after the pressure cooking ends.
Can You Use Frozen Chicken in Instant Pot Chicken and Rice?
Yes, If you’re using frozen chicken, you’ll need to increase the cooking time to 12 minutes. There’s no need to adjust the liquid, as the frozen chicken will release some water as it cooks.
How to Store and Reheat Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave it with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice from drying out. This dish also freezes well—perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something, a fresh green salad or steamed veggies are great options. A slice of crusty bread or garlic toast would also complement the flavors.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
Conclusion
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s quick, easy, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Whether you’re in need of a comforting dinner or a meal prep solution for the week, this recipe is versatile and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try.