Instant Pot Chicken Rice Recipe

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If you are looking for a foolproof, comforting, and downright delicious one-pot meal, this Instant Pot Chicken Rice is an absolute game changer. Combining tender, juicy chicken thighs with fluffy, perfectly cooked rice and a medley of vibrant vegetables, it promises rich flavors and hearty satisfaction with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy weekday cook or a weekend foodie craving cozy nourishment, this recipe will quickly become one of your kitchen favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple and work harmoniously to build layers of taste, texture, and color that make this Instant Pot Chicken Rice so inviting. Each element plays a vital role, from the savory herbs to the fresh vegetables, creating a balanced and comforting dish.

• Olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity richness and helps brown the chicken for extra flavor.
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Juicy and tender, they hold up well to pressure cooking without drying out.
• Yellow onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed.
• Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• Celery stalks: Adds subtle earthiness and freshness to the flavor mix.
• Garlic cloves: A must for aromatic intensity and depth.
• Dried thyme: Offers gentle herbaceous notes that complement poultry beautifully.
• Dried rosemary: Gives a piney aroma that enhances savory elements.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of warmth for those who like a hint of spice.
• Chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses the rice and chicken with savory goodness.
• Long-grain rice: Perfect for achieving fluffy, non-sticky grains in the Instant Pot.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with a fresh herbal touch.
• Lemon juice (optional): A splash adds a beautiful, uplifting brightness that cuts through the richness.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot and Brown the Chicken

Start by selecting the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot and allowing it to heat until it reads “Hot.” Pour in the olive oil to coat the bottom. Next, add your chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, browning them until golden all over — about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and creates a scrumptious base for your dish. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and the onions become translucent. This step mellows the vegetables and builds the aromatic foundation that will infuse the rice and chicken with rich depth.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Now, introduce the minced garlic, dried thyme, rosemary, and the optional red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about a minute until you can smell their fragrant magic filling the pot. This quick step ensures these flavors are toasted just enough to release their oils, enhancing the overall character of the dish.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Pour around half a cup of chicken broth into the pot to deglaze, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. This action prevents burning during pressure cooking while capturing those flavor-packed morsels from browning the chicken and veggies.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients and Return Chicken

Pour in the rest of the chicken broth along with the rinsed rice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly. Then, nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the mixture, ensuring they are mostly submerged. This layering helps the chicken become tender while infusing the rice with savory juices.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure release valve to “Sealing.” Choose the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once cooking finishes, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This slow release helps keep the chicken moist and the rice perfectly textured before you carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Finish and Fluff

Open the lid cautiously, tilting it away to avoid the steam. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice without stirring too aggressively, which can make it mushy. Check the chicken for doneness—it should be tender and fully cooked. If needed, you can close the lid and let it sit on “Keep Warm” for a few minutes. For an optional bright kick, stir in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice now.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a lively green contrast and fresh herbal notes that elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor. For extra flair, a few thin lemon wedges on the side allow diners to add brightness as they wish.

Side Dishes

Though this Instant Pot Chicken Rice makes a hearty main course, it pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple sides like steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a fresh garden salad. These add textural variety and freshness to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this comforting mix in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe or molded in small ramekins for charming individual portions. For a family-style spread, garnish with parsley, lemon slices, and a drizzle of good olive oil to add shine and richness right at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Instant Pot Chicken Rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, giving you quick and satisfying meals ready to reheat during busy days.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can swap in boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but know they might cook faster and can dry out more easily. Keep a close eye on cooking times or try letting the dish rest on “Keep Warm” after pressure cooking to retain moisture.

Do I have to rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing the rice removes surface starch, which helps prevent the grains from sticking together and keeps the texture fluffy and light. It’s a small extra step that makes a big difference for Instant Pot rice dishes.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to toss in peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some leafy greens at the end of cooking. Just adjust the quantity so it doesn’t overwhelm the balance of the dish.

What broth works best for this recipe?

Homemade or store-bought chicken broth both work wonderfully. For extra flavor, choose a rich, low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level in your dish.

How spicy is the Instant Pot Chicken Rice?

The recipe is mild by default. The optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but you can omit them entirely or increase slightly if you prefer more spice.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about the simplicity and warmth of this Instant Pot Chicken Rice. The way the ingredients meld together in a single pot makes dinner feel effortless yet thoughtfully delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and let it become your new go-to for satisfying, flavorful meals any night of the week.

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