Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a quick and easy one-pot meal packed with flavor. Tender chicken thighs cook perfectly with seasoned rice, bell peppers, garlic, and spices for a hearty family dinner. Made entirely in the Instant Pot, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights and delivers consistent results with minimal effort. It’s a comforting chicken and rice recipe with simple ingredients, rich aroma, and perfect texture every time. Perfect for meal prep or a wholesome homemade dinner that everyone will love.

A comforting one-pot meal made effortlessly in your Instant Pot, this Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken thighs with perfectly seasoned rice and vegetables. It’s hearty, simple, and perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 4–5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup white wine (optional)
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 bay leaves
• 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth (adjust if your Instant Pot requires more liquid)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients
   Have all ingredients ready before starting. This helps minimize liquid evaporation during sautéing and reduces the risk of a burn notice.
2. Sauté the Chicken
   Turn your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting. Add olive oil. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them in the pot, skin-side down. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables
   Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir and sauté for about 2 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a plate and set aside.
4. Deglaze the Pot
   Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook for about 1 minute, or until most of the wine has evaporated. Turn the Instant Pot off.
5. Add Broth and Rice
   Add chicken broth and bay leaves to the pot, then stir in the sautéed vegetable mixture. Pour the rinsed rice evenly over the top (do not stir). Place the chicken thighs on top, skin-side up.
6. Pressure Cook
   Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on Manual or High Pressure for 15 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Add Peas and Finish
   Remove the lid and scatter the frozen peas over the rice. Replace the lid and let rest for 5 minutes to heat the peas through.
8. Serve
   Transfer the chicken to a plate, gently fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

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Tips

• Always check your Instant Pot manual for the proper rice-to-liquid ratio. Some models require more liquid than others.
• Deglaze thoroughly after sautéing to avoid the “burn” warning.
• For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth or add a squeeze of lemon before serving.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Rice: Substitute long-grain rice with basmati or jasmine rice. Adjust liquid as needed.
• Protein: Use boneless chicken thighs, chicken breasts, or even turkey pieces.
• Vegetables: Add diced carrots, corn, or green beans for more color and nutrition.
• Wine-free version: Replace white wine with additional broth.

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FAQs

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but increase the broth to 3 cups and cook for 22–25 minutes under high pressure.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

How do I avoid mushy rice?
Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking and avoid stirring it once added to the pot.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or warm bread. This dish also pairs beautifully with a light yogurt sauce or a simple cucumber salad.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot convenience with minimal cleanup.
• Perfectly tender chicken and fluffy, flavorful rice every time.
• Easy to customize with your favorite spices or vegetables.
• Family-friendly and meal-prep friendly.