Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice – The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner Recipe!

This Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe truly earns its place as the ultimate weeknight dinner. It’s warm, filling, and deeply satisfying—the kind of meal that feels like a hug after a long day. Across many cultures, chicken and rice has always been a symbol of home cooking, nourishment, and care. From simple family suppers to healing meals made with love, this humble pairing has stood the test of time. What makes this version special is how effortlessly it comes together in the Instant Pot, without sacrificing that slow-cooked, traditional flavor we all crave.

Busy evenings call for recipes that don’t demand constant attention, yet still deliver something wholesome and delicious. With just one pot, a handful of pantry staples, and a few minutes of prep, you’ll have tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a savory broth infused with gentle spices and aromatics. No multiple pans, no complicated steps—just reliable comfort food you can feel good about serving your family.

This dish is wonderfully adaptable. Keep it simple for picky eaters, or dress it up with herbs, vegetables, or a splash of lemon for extra brightness. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or planning leftovers for the next day, this Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe is a dependable classic you’ll return to again and again. Let’s cook something cozy. 😊

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Aromatics & Seasoning

• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup frozen peas or carrots
• 1 tablespoon butter (for richness)
• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until aromatic. This step builds a flavorful base. 🧅🧄
3. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken pieces evenly with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Add the seasoned chicken to the pot and lightly sear for about 2 minutes per side. You’re not cooking it through—just locking in flavor.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a small splash of the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. This prevents the burn notice and adds depth of flavor.
5. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rinsed rice, then pour in the remaining chicken broth. Make sure the rice is mostly submerged. Do not stir excessively once the rice is added.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes.
7. Natural Release: When cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure.
8. Finish the Dish: Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. If using peas, carrots, or butter, stir them in now. The residual heat will warm everything through.
9. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve warm.

Notes:

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of warm milk or broth at the end.
• Brown rice can be used, but cooking time and liquid will need adjustment.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.

Nutritional Information:

This Instant Pot chicken and rice dish offers a balanced combination of lean protein, carbohydrates, and comforting flavors. It’s filling without being heavy and provides sustained energy—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Using simple, whole ingredients keeps it nourishing while still feeling indulgent. 🥣💪

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 18 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~420 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

#InstantPotDinner #ChickenAndRice #WeeknightMeals #EasyComfortFood #OnePotRecipe #FamilyDinner #TraditionalCooking #QuickAndHealthy

Bon appétit and happy cooking!