Instant Pot Chicken and Rice: Quick, Easy Recipes

The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we cook, making meals like chicken and rice not only delicious but also incredibly quick and easy. This modern kitchen tool is perfect for anyone looking to save time without compromising on flavor or nutrition. In this blog post, we'll dive into a variety of Instant Pot chicken and rice recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary needs, offering you easy one-pot wonders to simplify your dinner routine.

Benefits of Using the Instant Pot

Before jumping into the recipes, let’s explore why the Instant Pot is a game-changer:

• Time-saving: Prep and cook in one pot, significantly reducing kitchen time.
• Energy Efficiency: Less energy consumption than traditional cooking methods.
• Nutrient Retention: Pressure cooking helps to retain nutrients in foods.
• Flavor Infusion: Intense flavor through pressure cooking.

Classic Chicken and Rice

This recipe brings comfort food to your table in no time. Here’s how:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place chicken, rice, broth, water, vegetables, butter, and seasonings into the Instant Pot.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to "sealing," and cook on manual high pressure for 8 minutes.
3. Once the cooking is done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork, shred or slice the chicken, mix together, and serve.

⭐️ Note: Adjust the cooking time based on the type of rice used. For brown rice, increase cooking time to 22 minutes.

Herb-Infused Lemon Chicken and Rice

This recipe adds a refreshing zest to your meal with the addition of lemon:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 ½ cups basmati rice, rinsed
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic, lemon zest, rosemary, and thyme. Place into the Instant Pot.
2. Add rice, stock, and lemon juice.
3. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Use a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
4. Stir the rice to distribute flavors, check for seasoning, adjust if needed, and serve.

Veggie-Packed Chicken and Rice

For those looking to increase their veggie intake:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 ¾ cup chicken broth
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté vegetables and garlic in oil using the sauté function until slightly tender. Remove and set aside.
2. Add chicken, rice, broth, and seasonings to the pot. Top with the sautéed vegetables.
3. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes with a natural release for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release.
4. Mix everything together and serve.

Cilantro Lime Chicken and Rice

A twist on the classic with vibrant flavors:

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless chicken thighs
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
• Juice and zest of 2 limes
• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
2. Secure the lid, set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. After cooking, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
4. Fluff rice, stir in fresh cilantro, adjust seasoning, and serve.

✨ Note: The black beans add protein and fiber, making this a complete meal.

Curry Chicken and Rice

Embrace the warmth of Indian flavors with this spicy dish:

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
• 1 ½ cups basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 green chili, split lengthwise
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in the Instant Pot until fragrant. Add chicken, curry, and chili.
2. Stir in rice, broth, and coconut milk. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. Let it naturally release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
4. Stir, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Summarizing this culinary journey, the Instant Pot not only simplifies cooking chicken and rice but elevates it to new heights with various flavors and ingredient combinations. It’s a versatile tool that caters to different palates, from the comforting classic to the bold curry. With these recipes, you’re equipped to make meals that are not only quick to prepare but also rich in taste and nutrition. The Instant Pot truly makes it possible to turn basic ingredients into gourmet dishes with minimal effort, making it a must-have for anyone looking to streamline their cooking process while enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals.

How long does it take to cook chicken and rice in an Instant Pot?

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On average, cooking chicken and rice in an Instant Pot takes about 8-10 minutes under high pressure, with an additional 10 minutes of natural release time.

Can I use frozen chicken for these recipes?

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Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Add 5 minutes for frozen chicken.

How do I ensure my rice doesn’t turn out too mushy or undercooked?

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Use the correct water-to-rice ratio and cook time for the type of rice you’re using. Also, rinsing rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, reducing the chance of mushy rice.

Is it safe to cook raw meat with rice in the Instant Pot?

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Yes, the high pressure and heat of the Instant Pot make it safe to cook raw meat with rice. Ensure all ingredients are submerged in liquid for even cooking.