Print

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe for Quick, Easy Dinners Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe for Quick, Easy Dinners Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs or breasts are sautéed with aromatic onions and garlic, then pressure-cooked with long-grain rice and chicken broth to create a comforting, one-pot dish. Optional peas and carrots add a nutritious touch, making it a wholesome, family-friendly dinner that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • Olive oil (for sautéing)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to ensure fluffy rice after cooking.
  2. Sauté: Turn the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Season and Brown: Add the chicken to the pot, season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 2 minutes on each side to develop color — no need to cook through.
  4. Add Rice and Broth: Pour in the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Mix well, making sure the rice is fully submerged in the broth. Add any extra seasonings if desired.
  5. Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high pressure for 8 minutes. It will take about 8-10 minutes to reach pressure before cooking begins.
  6. Natural Release: When cooking finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to vent to release remaining steam.
  7. Fluff and Serve: Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. If using, add frozen peas and carrots now, replace the lid, and let them heat through for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with parsley or cilantro and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice ensures fluffier texture and prevents it from becoming sticky.
  • Use chicken thighs for more flavor; breasts work well for a leaner option.
  • Low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt content.
  • Frozen peas and carrots can be added after cooking to maintain their color and texture.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste, and consider adding smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
  • Letting the pressure release naturally helps keep the rice texture perfect and prevents splattering.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot chicken and rice, easy chicken dinner, pressure cooker recipe, one pot meal, quick chicken dinner

Find it online: https://platedbyemma.com/instant-pot-chicken-and-rice-recipe-for-quick-easy-dinners-recipe/