Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice – The Ultimate One-Pot Dinner
Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice – The Ultimate One-Pot Dinner
Imagine coming home to a comforting, home-cooked meal that takes just minutes to prepare. This Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe delivers perfectly tender chicken and fluffy rice in one pot – no fuss, no multiple pans to clean, just pure comfort food that your whole family will love. Whether you’re looking for easy weeknight dinner ideas or beginner Instant Pot recipes, this dish is your new go-to solution.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil and heat for 1 minute. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the Instant Pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. No need to cook through completely at this stage.
Step 3: Add Rice and Liquids
Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. Add rice to the pot along with chicken broth, water, paprika, and thyme. Stir gently to combine, making sure rice is submerged in liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Close the Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Open the lid carefully. Remove chicken pieces and shred or slice as desired. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir chicken back in along with any optional vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t Skip the Rinse: Rinsing rice removes excess starch for fluffier results
- Even Cooking: Cut chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking
- Vegetable Options: Add frozen vegetables during the last minute of cooking to keep them crisp
- Broth Matters: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe stores beautifully for 3-4 days in the refrigerator
FAQ Section
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Increase cooking time to 22 minutes on high pressure with natural pressure release.
How do I prevent the “burn” warning?
Ensure rice is fully submerged in liquid and avoid stirring after adding rice to prevent starch buildup on the bottom.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but don’t exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot. Increase liquid proportionally.
What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?
Chicken thighs stay more moist, but breasts work well too. Either cut works perfectly for this family-friendly meal.
Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice – The Ultimate One-Pot Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Turn your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil and heat for 1 minute. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the Instant Pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. No need to cook through completely at this stage.
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. Add rice to the pot along with chicken broth, water, paprika, and thyme. Stir gently to combine, making sure rice is submerged in liquid.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid carefully. Remove chicken pieces and shred or slice as desired. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir chicken back in along with any optional vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
