This Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe is a quick and easy meal that’s sure to become a household favorite. The dish is made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and plenty of flavorful spices for a satisfying and tasty dinner that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This recipe has become popular due to its convenience and delicious taste, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Give it a try and enjoy a mouthwatering dish that the whole family will love. Don’t wait any longer, grab your Instant Pot and start cooking today!
Here is why you might love this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
1. Quick and easy: This recipe is easy to make in an Instant Pot and takes only a few minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Delicious flavors: The combination of chicken, rice, and flavorful spices creates a delicious and comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy.
3. Versatile: This recipe can be customized to fit your taste preferences by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices. It’s also a great option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound (453.6 g) chicken breasts
- 1 cup (192.7 g) brown rice rinsed and drained
- 1 cup (238.4 g) chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.2 teaspoon) black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon (0.5 teaspoon) salt
- 1/4 teaspoon (0.2 teaspoon) paprika
- 1/2 cup (73.5 g) frozen peas
- 1/2 cup (64.9 g) carrots chopped
- 1/4 cup (25.6 g) celery chopped
- 1/4 cup (37.8 g) red bell pepper chopped
- 1/4 cup (37.8 g) green bell pepper chopped
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Cube 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Rinse and drain 1 cup of brown rice.
- In the Instant Pot, add the chicken, rice, 1 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 small chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika.
- Mix well.
- Add 1/2 cup of frozen peas, 1/2 cup of chopped carrots, 1/4 cup of chopped celery, 1/4 cup of chopped red bell pepper, and 1/4 cup of chopped green bell pepper to the Instant Pot.
- Mix well.
- Seal the Instant Pot according to the manufacturer's instructions and set it to cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure manually.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water.
- In the Instant Pot, add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Serve and enjoy your Instant Pot Chicken and Rice.
Notes
2. Always follow the recommended cooking instructions and times for your specific Instant Pot model.
3. Add in your favorite herbs and spices for extra flavor, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
4. Use low-sodium chicken broth or stock to control the salt content in the dish.
5. Let the dish naturally release for 5-10 minutes before opening the Instant Pot to allow the rice to absorb all the liquid.
6. Add in vegetables such as carrots, peas, or broccoli for added nutrition.
7. After cooking, let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. For added richness and creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
9. Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the dish.
10. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
Main Ingredients Explained
| Main Ingredients | Description | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Protein source, can use boneless or bone-in, skinless or with skin | Turkey or pork |
| Rice | Starch component, long-grain white rice preferred | Brown rice, quinoa, or barley |
| Chicken broth | Liquid base, adds flavor and moisture | Vegetable broth, water with bouillon, or coconut milk for a creamier version |
Storage Tips
When it comes to storing chicken and rice dishes in the fridge, they should be kept in an airtight container and consumed within 3-4 days. If you want to freeze the dish, make sure it is completely cooled down before packing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months.
To defrost, move the frozen dish from the freezer to the fridge and leave it for several hours or overnight until it’s fully thawed. Alternatively, you can defrost it using a microwave or by putting the container in a bowl filled with warm water.
Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stove until it’s heated all the way through before consuming. Be careful not to reheat it too many times, as it increases the risk of bacterial growth.
Recipe Variations
1. Lemon Chicken and Rice: Infuse your chicken and rice with fresh lemon juice and zest for a tangy and flavorful variation. Add a handful of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a brighter taste.
2. Garlic and Herb Chicken and Rice: Add some chopped garlic to the cooking liquid for a savory variation. Top with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil.
3. Creamy Chicken and Rice: Add a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream to the cooking liquid after the chicken and rice are done cooking. This adds a rich and indulgent flavor to the dish.
4. Curry Chicken and Rice: Add a spoonful of curry powder or paste to the cooking liquid for an aromatic and exotic variation. Top with some chopped cilantro and sliced scallions for a pop of fresh flavor.
5. Spanish Chicken and Rice: Add some diced tomatoes, chopped bell peppers, and smoked paprika to the cooking liquid for a colorful and zesty flavor. Serve with a crusty bread for a delicious meal.
What To Serve With
– Steamed or sautéed vegetables (e.g. green beans, broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
– Salad (e.g. kale, spinach, mixed greens)
– Bread or rolls
– Garlic bread
– Roasted potatoes
– Mashed potatoes
– Cauliflower mash
– Grilled corn on the cob
– Fruit salad
– Roasted or grilled vegetables
– Soup (e.g. tomato soup or chicken noodle soup)
– Dessert (e.g. brownies, cookies, or ice cream)
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