Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a family dinner favorite! This one-pot meal combines brown rice, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and minimal cleanup. The Instant Pot ensures everything cooks evenly and quickly, so you can enjoy a homemade meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a wholesome meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices enhances the taste of the chicken and rice.
• Nutritious: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this dish is healthy without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a unique twist each time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time while locking in moisture and flavor.
• Cutting board & Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient prep work for chopping ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantee precision in your recipe for consistent results.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Instant Pot Chicken and Rice:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 medium carrots (chopped)
• 1 ½ cups long grain brown rice (uncooked, rinsed well and drained, do not substitute other types of rice)

Seasonings & Broth

• 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)

Protein & Veggies

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 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 the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a 6-quart or larger Instant Pot using the sauté setting.
* Add the chopped onion and sauté until it starts to soften, about 3 minutes.
* 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.
* Stir well to ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly. Scrape any bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken

Make sure all of the rice mixture is submerged in liquid.
* Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture without stirring them into it.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid securely. Set the pressure valve to sealing.
* Pressure cook on high for 20 minutes. The pot will take approximately 15 minutes 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.

Step 6: Quick Release Remaining Pressure

Carefully do a quick release by moving the steam release valve to venting.
* Once all steam has released and the pin drops down, open the lid carefully.

Step 7: Shred Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot onto a cutting board.
* Let them rest for a few minutes before chopping into bite-size pieces. Stir back into the rice mixture along with cooked frozen peas.

Step 8: Serve

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

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, there are plenty of creative ways to enhance your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the dish for added flavor and color.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions can add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the richness of the chicken and rice.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing in Caesar salad pairs well with the savory flavors of the dish.

Include Extra Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only enhances nutrition but also adds a vibrant green color to your plate.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts can bring a delightful crunch and an earthy flavor.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Making Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is simple, but these tips will help ensure you achieve the best results every time.

• Use Long Grain Brown Rice: Stick to long grain brown rice, as other types may not cook evenly.
• Sauté Before Pressure Cooking: Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances their flavors before pressure cooking.
• Don’t Skip Natural Release: Allowing for natural release helps keep the chicken moist and tender.
• Check Chicken Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your preference; more herbs or spices can elevate the dish.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with Instant Pot Chicken and Rice can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your chicken and rice.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a healthy, flavorful addition.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob offers a delightful sweetness that balances the meal’s flavors.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs well with savory chicken and rice.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein and fiber while keeping things fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Chicken and Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong type of rice – Always use long grain brown rice in this recipe. Other types of rice can alter the cooking time and texture.
• Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the onion and garlic first adds depth of flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step for best results.
• Overfilling the Instant Pot – Make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line. Overfilling can lead to uneven cooking or a messy overflow.
• Not scraping the bottom – Failing to scrape up any stuck bits can cause the burn warning. Always ensure nothing is stuck before sealing.
• Ignoring natural release time – Allowing for natural pressure release helps finish cooking and prevents dryness. Don’t rush this step.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Instant Pot Chicken and Rice in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with date and contents.

Reheating Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop – Heat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Instant Pot Chicken and Rice take to cook?

The cooking time is about 20 minutes under high pressure, plus an additional 15 minutes for the pot to come to pressure.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken and Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Chicken and Rice?

This dish pairs well with fresh salad, steamed broccoli, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Is Instant Pot Chicken and Rice healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with protein from chicken and fiber from brown rice, making it a nutritious option.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Certainly! You can substitute chicken with turkey or lamb based on your preference.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is not only easy but also deliciously satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner—it’s bound to become a favorite!

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