If you’re craving soft chicken, fluffy rice, and a savory flavor in no time, you can make the “Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe” at home. This article provides simple instructions to make it restaurant-quality.
Table of Contents
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe:
If you’re looking for a quick, filling family dinner that tastes amazing and can be simmered all day, the Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is perfect for you. You’ll love the flavors you crave.
This one-pot meal is packed with protein and delivers a comforting flavor. This dish has become a cult favorite in American kitchens. For good reason, this recipe gives you soft chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich savory flavor in less than 30 to 25 minutes.
It doesn’t require any attention to the stove. No need for multiple pans, just add, press, and enjoy.
If you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who loves an easy weeknight meal, this Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe will become your favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe:
- This isn’t a basic chicken and rice recipe; here’s why it’ll be different.
- Ready in less than 30 minutes
- One-pot meal – easy cleanup
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Perfect for kids and customizable
- A comfort food with modern convenience
- A favorite for family dinners in the USA
- The Instant Pot locks in moisture, making the chicken extra juicy and the rice evenly cooked. This is something that’s difficult to achieve on the stovetop.
All the ingredients you need to make this:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, basmati or jasmine is best
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thigh or breast
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Spice List:
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – for a creamier version
- 1/2 cup cheddar or Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For best results, use:
- Jasmine or basmati – long-grain white rice is best
Avoid the following:
- Brown rice – takes a different cooking time
- Instant or parboiled rice
- Short-grain rice – tends to be mushy
Instant Pot chicken and rice, step-by-step instructions on how to make it:
1. Washing the Rice
- Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water until the water runs clear.
- This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Set aside.
2. Sautéing the Aromatics
- Now turn the instant pot on sauté (normal).
- Add butter or olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the cooked onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for 25 to 30 seconds.
- This step will create a deeper flavor from the start.
3. Seasoning the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sprinkle with the following spices:
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Stir gently to coat the chicken thoroughly with the spices. Light browning adds extra flavor, but don’t overcook.
4. Adding the Rice and Broth
- Turn off the sauté mode.
- Add the chicken broth.
- Add the washed rice, then,
- Gently stir once to combine and ensure the rice is thoroughly submerged in the liquid, ensuring even cooking.
5. Pressure Cooker
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Select the pressure cooker on high.
- Set the timer for 8 to 9 minutes.
- It takes approximately 7 to 9 minutes for the Instant Pot to reach pressure.
6. Natural Release
- Once cooked, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Quick Release
- Be careful to gently open the lid.
7. Fluff and Finish
- Use a fork to fluff the rice.
- Optional:
- Add cream or cheese for a creamier texture.
- Add frozen vegetables.
- Garnish generously with fresh parsley.
- Now serve this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe hot and enjoy.
- Some variation suggestions for the Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe:
To make it creamier:
- Add 1/2 cup grated cheddar or Parmesan.
- Add 1/2 cup heavy cream,
- Stir gently to melt.
- This version tastes like a comforting casserole, but without the oven.
Some suggestions for a healthier version:
- Use chicken breast instead of thigh.
- Omit the cheese and cream.
- You can add extra vegetables like spinach, carrots, or broccoli.
- Reduce the butter and use olive oil.
Some great serving suggestions:
This Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe is delicious but goes even better with:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans
- Simple garden salad
Storage and meal prep:
- For the refrigerator: Store in an airtight container and keep for 4 to 5 days.
- For freezing: Refrigerate for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- To reheat: Add a little broth and microwave.
- Stir once in between to keep the rice moist.
Some mistakes to avoid:
- Using too little liquid
- Don’t forget to wash the rice
- Taste and add more seasoning first
- Using quick cook rice
- Stirring after pressure cooking
FAQ
Answers questions about the Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe and correcting mistakes while cooking.
Q. Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! But increase the pressure cooker time by 11 to 12 minutes and make sure the chicken pieces are separated.
Q. Can I use brown rice?
Using brown rice requires about 25 minutes on high pressure or more liquid. This recipe is designed for white rice only.
Q. Why does the rice become mushy?
Reasons:
Overcooking
Too much liquid
Using short-grain rice.
Q. Which size Instant Pot is best?
A 6-quart Instant Pot is perfect for the Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe, which Americans love so much.
Q. Can I add vegetables before cooking?
Absolutely! Harder vegetables like corn or carrots are best. Add delicate vegetables after cooking.
Q. Can I double the Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe?
Absolutely! As long as you don’t exceed the Instant Pot’s maximum fill line and the cooking time remains the same.
Why is this recipe a favorite in the USA?
Chicken and rice is a much-loved comfort food in America. The Instant Pot takes a classic dish and modernizes it, making it:
much easier than a slow cooker meal
faster than a stovetop
creamier than a baked version
Ideal with:
Sunday meal prep
family dinner
comfort fruit cravings
and,
for busy weeknights
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With just simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a great meal with incredible flavor, one you’ll want to make again and again.