When life feels overwhelming, I turn to one recipe that never fails me: Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice. It’s the ultimate comfort food—creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying—but made in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pot: tender chicken, fluffy rice, and aromatic seasonings that meld into pure comfort. It tastes like it simmered for hours, but in reality, dinner is on the table in under 40 minutes.
Whether you’re meal-prepping, cooking for kids, or just need a quick, cozy dinner, this one-pot wonder delivers every single time.
Why This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Works
- One-Pot Magic → Fewer dishes, less cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Perfectly Balanced Texture → Juicy chicken + fluffy rice, never mushy or burnt.
- Family Friendly → Kid-approved flavors that adults love too.
- Meal Prep Friendly → Stays delicious for days and freezes beautifully.
- Customizable → Swap seasonings, add vegetables, or change the vibe (Mexican, Mediterranean, Indian).
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a family-sized portion (4–6 servings):
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Thighs (or breasts, boneless & skinless)
- 1.5 cups Jasmine or Basmati Rice, rinsed well
- 2 cups Low-Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 Medium Onion, chopped
- 3–4 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1.5 Tbsp Olive Oil or Butter
- 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tsp Paprika
- ½ tsp Dried Thyme
- ¼ tsp Garlic Powder
- ¼ tsp Onion Powder
- Optional: Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes
- Garnish: Fresh Parsley or Cilantro
💡 Pro Tip: Use chicken thighs for the juiciest, most forgiving results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
- Rinse rice until water runs clear (reduces starch & prevents burn).
- Season chicken with spices and pat dry.
2. Sauté Aromatics
- Turn Instant Pot to Sauté (Normal).
- Heat olive oil → add onion (3–4 mins) → garlic (30 secs).
3. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Best)
- Sear chicken for 1–2 mins each side. Remove & set aside.
4. Deglaze the Pot
- Add ¼ cup broth → scrape up browned bits.
5. Layer Ingredients
- Add remaining broth.
- Add rice (don’t stir, just spread flat).
- Place chicken on top.
6. Pressure Cook
- Seal lid, set valve to Sealing.
- Cook:
- 6 mins for cut chicken
- 8–10 mins for whole thighs/breasts
- Allow 10-min Natural Pressure Release, then Quick Release.
7. Finish & Serve
- Fluff rice with fork.
- Shred or dice chicken, mix into rice.
- Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
- Classic → As is, with a squeeze of lemon.
- Add Veggies → Stir in peas, corn, or broccoli at the end.
- With Sides → Pair with salad, roasted veggies, or bread.
- Flavor Upgrade → Add Parmesan, hot sauce, or a dollop of yogurt.
Storage & Meal Prep Guide
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth to keep rice fluffy.
Variations to Try
- 🌿 Mediterranean: Add oregano, lemon zest, and olives.
- 🌶 Mexican: Use cumin, chili powder, and stir in black beans + corn.
- 🍛 Indian-Inspired: Add turmeric, garam masala, and peas.
Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 of 6)
- Calories: ~480
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 640mg
Pro Tips for Success
✔ Always rinse rice thoroughly.
✔ Deglaze fully to avoid “Burn” notice.
✔ Don’t stir before pressure cooking.
✔ Use chicken thighs for best results.
✔ Allow 10-min NPR for fluffy rice.
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase liquid and cook time (20–22 mins).
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, just add 3–5 extra minutes cook time.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
Yes, in an 8qt Instant Pot. In a 6qt, only 1.5x the recipe.
Q: How do I make it low-carb?
Cook chicken separately and serve over cauliflower rice.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is more than just dinner—it’s a reliable, comforting staple that adapts to your life. From picky eaters to meal-prep warriors, everyone will want seconds.