Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a family dinner favorite! This comforting dish combines tender chicken, wholesome brown rice, and colorful veggies, all cooked together effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and rich flavors. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare a complete meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze while satisfying everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Dijon mustard and Italian seasoning elevates the taste.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from brown rice and veggies.
• Versatile Dish: Modify with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook everything in the Instant Pot for less mess and easy cleanup.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multifunctional device speeds up cooking time while enhancing flavors.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for safely preparing your ingredients with ease.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision in measuring ensures perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a family dinner favorite! Brown rice, chicken and veggies all cook together in your Instant Pot in this easy homemade chicken and rice recipe.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 medium carrots (chopped)

For the Rice Mixture

• 1 ½ cups long grain brown rice (uncooked, rinsed well and drained, do not substitute other types of rice)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ¾ cups low sodium chicken broth ((one 14.5 ounce can))

For the Protein

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

For Serving

• 1 cup frozen peas (cooked according to package directions)
• Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a 6 quart or larger Instant Pot using the sauté setting.
1. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it starts to soften, about 3 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds before turning off the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the carrots, brown rice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chicken broth into the pot.
1. Stir well to combine all ingredients while scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
2. Ensure that all rice and vegetables are submerged in the liquid.

Step 3: Layer Chicken

Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture within the Instant Pot.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid securely and set the pressure valve to sealing.
1. Pressure cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
2. Note that it will take about 15 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure before cooking begins.

Step 5: Natural Release

Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes after cooking ends by simply leaving it off.

Step 6: Quick Release

Carefully perform a quick pressure release by moving the steam release valve to venting position.
1. Wait until all steam has escaped completely before opening the lid.

Step 7: Shred Chicken

Remove cooked chicken breasts to a cutting board.
1. Let them rest for a few minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
2. Stir back into the rice mixture along with cooked peas.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken and Rice!

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Serving Instant Pot Chicken and Rice can elevate your family dinner experience. With endless options for presentation and pairing, you can customize each plate to your liking.

Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil or Cilantro: These herbs add a unique twist and freshness to your meal.

Cheese Options

• Grated Parmesan: A classic choice that adds a rich, savory touch when sprinkled on top.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy flavor, try adding feta cheese to complement the chicken and rice.

Condiments

• Hot Sauce: Add a few drops for those who enjoy a spicy kick in their meal.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors beautifully.

Additional Veggies

• Steamed Broccoli: Serve alongside for a nutritious side that pairs well with chicken and rice.
• Roasted Asparagus: Add roasted asparagus for a crunchy texture and vibrant color.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Perfecting your Instant Pot Chicken and Rice dish can lead to consistent results that everyone loves. Here are some tips to ensure success every time.

• Use Long Grain Brown Rice: This type of rice absorbs flavors well and cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot.
• Don’t Skip the Sauté Step: Browning the onions and garlic enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Layer Ingredients Properly: Ensure that the rice is submerged in liquid before placing chicken on top to avoid burning.
• Let It Natural Release: Allowing the pressure to release naturally helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor experience.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with Instant Pot Chicken and Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement this hearty main course.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery loaf that pairs perfectly with chicken and rice for soaking up flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds freshness to your dinner plate.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and balances out the richness of chicken and rice.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds provide a crunchy side full of nutrients.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: This refreshing salad offers a cool contrast to warm chicken and rice dishes.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is always a hit, especially in summer, adding sweetness to your meal.
8. Baked Zucchini Fries: These crispy fries are not only delicious but also provide a healthy alternative to traditional fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When cooking Instant Pot Chicken and Rice, even small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Not rinsing the rice: Failing to rinse your rice can lead to a gummy texture. Always rinse brown rice well before adding it to the pot.
• Overfilling the pot: Exceeding the maximum fill line can cause pressure issues. Be mindful of portion sizes and adjust ingredients accordingly.
• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing onions and garlic first can result in a bland flavor. Take time to sauté for a richer taste.
• Ignoring the natural release time: Quick-releasing pressure immediately can result in overcooked chicken. Allow for a natural release of at least 10 minutes for better texture.
• Using the wrong type of rice: Substituting different rice types may lead to uneven cooking. Stick with long grain brown rice for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover your dish with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken and Rice?

The total time is approximately 65 minutes, which includes prep, cooking, and pressure release times.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; simply increase the cooking time by about 5 minutes.

What vegetables can I add to Instant Pot Chicken and Rice?

You can customize this recipe by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

Is Instant Pot Chicken and Rice healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from brown rice and veggies, making it a balanced meal option.

How do I serve Instant Pot Chicken and Rice?

Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or served alongside a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Try this simple recipe for a hearty family dinner that everyone will love!