Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Introduction

Few comfort foods can rival the appeal of a savory, perfectly textured chicken and rice dish—and when it cooks up in a fraction of the time in your Instant Pot, it’s a total game-changer. This recipe brings together juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables in a one-pot meal that feels both hearty and wholesome.

Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, Instant Pot Chicken and Rice offers easy clean-up and reliable results every single time. It’s a go-to option for busy weeknights or when you want satisfying flavor without the fuss.

Why Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Is a Weeknight Winner

A bowl of chicken and rice is classic, but cooking it in the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart ensures consistently tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice in a fraction of the time of stovetop methods. The pressure-infused flavors, paired with simple ingredients, result in a dish the whole family will crave. Plus, cleanup is a breeze—there’s just one pot!

How to Prep Chicken and Vegetables for Uniform Cooking

Uniform cuts are the key to evenly cooked chicken and crisp-tender veggies in your one-pot meal. To speed up prep and keep pieces the same size, use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper. Chop carrots, onions, and bell peppers in seconds, and cube the chicken to the same size for juicy, even bites.

Cooking Tips for Fluffy Rice and Tender Chicken

The Instant Pot’s rice setting delivers perfect grains, but make sure to rinse your rice beforehand to prevent stickiness. If your model allows, use the sauté function to brown the chicken first for extra flavor. A Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher can quickly shred your chicken directly in the pot after cooking, infusing every bite with flavor.

After pressure cooking, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes—this keeps the chicken ultra-tender and the rice fluffy.

Storing Leftovers for Healthy Meal Prep

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice stores beautifully for future meals. Divide portions into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for grab-and-go lunches or dinners. The dish reheats well and maintains its flavor and texture, making it a top choice for meal prepping.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about six generous servings, clocking in at around 375–425 calories per portion, depending on the type of rice and additional vegetables you use. It’s a balanced meal with lean protein, nourishing carbs, and plenty of veggies.

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice (Recap)

Perfect for busy nights and family gatherings, this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is unbeatable for flavor and convenience. With minimal prep, a quick cook time, and only one pot to wash, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Instructions

1. Set your Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart to the sauté setting. Add olive oil, then onions, carrots, and bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
2. Add cubed chicken, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Sauté 2–3 minutes until lightly browned (it doesn’t need to cook through here).
3. Add rinsed rice and pour in chicken broth, stirring well to combine and scrape up any browned bits at the bottom. Turn off the sauté function.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 8 minutes.
5. When cooking finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Open the lid and stir in frozen peas.
6. Let the mixture rest 5 minutes. For shredded chicken, use the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher or a Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black directly in the pot.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan if desired. Serve warm, or portion into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes (includes pressure cooking and release)

Total Time: 30 minutes

Enjoy a wholesome and flavorful Instant Pot Chicken and Rice that’s as easy as it is delicious—perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or anytime you want real comfort in a hurry.