Savory Instant Pot Chicken Rice – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Imagine walking into your kitchen, and the air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of savory chicken and fluffy rice. The kind of smell that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped into a cozy restaurant, where chefs are whipping up magic behind the scenes. That’s the experience of making Instant Pot Chicken Rice—a dish that’s not only delicious but practically prepares itself while you kick back with a cup of coffee (or tea, if that’s your jam).

Whether it’s a hectic weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday gathering with friends, this dish transforms even the simplest moments into something special. With its tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice, every bite feels like a warm hug from your favorite aunt who always knows exactly what to make to cheer you up.

One time, I made this for my family during a particularly chaotic week. Amidst the whirlwind of activities, they gathered around the table and actually smiled while eating! It was as if I had achieved culinary nirvana.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.

• Long-Grain Rice: Make sure to rinse it well; nobody likes gummy rice.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth works best to control saltiness and enhance flavor.

• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for that rich flavor; it’s worth it.

• Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop it finely for even cooking.

• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic offers the best aroma—avoid those pre-minced ones if you can!

• Mixed Vegetables: Frozen veggies are quick and colorful; throw in whatever you have on hand.

• Spices (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Adjust these according to your taste preferences.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can better control the saltiness.

• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish perfectly; skip bottled if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Rice

Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil until shimmering and toss in chopped onions. Cook until they soften and become translucent.

Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—this step is crucial for infusing flavor into your dish!

Add Chicken: Toss in boneless chicken breasts along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear each side for about four minutes until they’re golden brown.

Add Rice and Broth: Pour in rinsed long-grain rice followed by chicken broth. Give it a gentle stir; ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

Add Vegetables and Sauce: Mix in your frozen mixed vegetables along with soy sauce and lemon juice. This will brighten flavors and add color—everyone loves a pretty plate!

Cook Under Pressure: Seal your Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow natural release for 5 minutes before doing a quick release.

Now just imagine lifting that lid: steam escapes revealing fluffy rice nestled next to tender chicken pieces—it’s almost poetic! Serve hot with some fresh herbs sprinkled on top for that Instagram-worthy finish.

With this recipe under your belt, you’ll find yourself becoming an Instant Pot wizard in no time! Not only does this dish please the palate, but it also becomes part of those cherished memories shared around dinner tables—where laughter fills the air alongside delightful aromas. Happy cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first in the Instant Pot to lock in flavor, then follow with aromatics before adding rice and broth. This ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap white rice for brown or jasmine rice for different textures. Add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for color and nutrition, or sprinkle fresh herbs before serving.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture.

Cooking this Instant Pot Chicken Rice reminds me of my friend’s surprise dinner party! They were blown away by how something so simple could taste so gourmet, proving that great flavors require little effort.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

What kind of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice works best, but jasmine or basmati adds extra fragrance.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking for a spicy kick.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Instant Pot Chicken Rice

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Instant Pot Chicken Rice is a comforting one-pot meal that brings the cozy vibes of a home-cooked dinner right to your table. Tender chicken melds with fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and savory spices, all effortlessly prepared in your Instant Pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite while allowing you to kick back and relax. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as you create cherished memories around the dinner table.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain rice (rinsed)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add chopped onion; cook until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken breasts, salt, pepper, and paprika; sear both sides for about four minutes until golden brown.
4. Pour in rinsed rice and chicken broth; stir gently to prevent sticking.
5. Mix in frozen vegetables, soy sauce, and lemon juice.
6. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes followed by a natural release for 5 minutes before a quick release.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Pressure Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 85mg