Introduction
Busy weeknights call for dinner superheroes—and this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is wearing the cape. It’s a one-pot wonder that checks all the boxes: comforting, flavorful, and totally fuss-free. Whether you’re juggling work, helping with homework, or just trying to get something warm and nourishing on the table fast (without resorting to takeout… again), this recipe has your back.
With tender chicken, hearty rice, and just the right blend of herbs and spices, this dish is the kind of dependable meal you’ll keep on repeat. Let’s dive into why your Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is about to become your new best friend.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
- One-pot magic: Less mess, fewer dishes. Enough said.
- Totally customizable: Use white or brown rice, thighs or breasts, and adjust the herbs to your liking.
- Family-friendly: Even picky eaters tend to love this combo of soft rice and savory chicken.
- Hands-off cooking: Let the Instant Pot do the heavy lifting while you kick back (or more realistically, tackle the laundry).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this cozy dinner classic:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large carrots, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons thyme (dried)
- 2 teaspoons oregano (dried)
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 cups white or brown rice, rinsed and drained
- 3 3/4 cups water
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional, for garnish)
📝 Pro Tip: White rice will cook quicker, but brown rice adds a nutty chew and more fiber—use whichever your crew prefers!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the aromatics
Turn on the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Once it reads Hot, add the olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring now and then until softened and fragrant.
2. Spice it up
Press Cancel, then stir in the thyme, oregano, and cumin. Cook for another 30 seconds to toast those spices and bring out their bold flavor.
3. Layer (don’t stir!)
Add the chicken, shredded carrots, rice, water, salt, pepper, and bay leaves in that order. This layering helps prevent the rice from sticking or burning. Do not stir!
4. Pressure cook
Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and press Pressure Cook (High):
- White rice: 10 minutes
- Brown rice: 22 minutes
It’ll take about 15–20 minutes to come to pressure, then the countdown begins.
5. Release & fluff
Once the timer hits OFF, use the Quick Release by turning the valve to Venting. This takes 2–3 minutes. Carefully open the lid.
6. Finish & serve
Sprinkle in fresh dill or parsley for a bright finish. Gently stir, scoop into bowls, and enjoy!
Malak’s Moment: A Personal Note
I remember the first time I tested this recipe—it was one of those Mondays. Kids cranky, work emails buzzing, and me standing in the kitchen staring at a package of chicken thighs like they held all the answers. I threw everything into the Instant Pot, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. Thirty minutes later, my kitchen smelled like comfort, and everyone—even the picky one—asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
- Always rinse your rice! It removes excess starch and helps prevent the dreaded “burn” notice.
- Use chicken thighs for the juiciest results, though breasts work if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
- Shred the carrots finely so they melt into the rice and add natural sweetness.
- Don’t skip the sauté step! It adds a depth of flavor you won’t get from just pressure cooking.
FAQs: Chicken and Rice Recipes, Answered
Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, but it must be cut into pieces before freezing and used without thawing. Add 2 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Is brown rice better than white rice?
Brown rice adds fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor, but it does take longer to cook. Either works—it’s just about your preference and time!
Q: Can I double this recipe in my 6-quart Instant Pot?
It’s a tight fit. If doubling, use an 8-quart pot or scale back slightly to avoid overflow.
You Might Also Like:
- Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake – Another family favorite with minimal effort.
- Easy Chicken and Vegetable Soup – Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep Sundays.
- Simple Chicken Stir Fry – Fast, colorful, and great for clearing out the fridge.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board and knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- 1 large onion Finely chopped.
- 2 large garlic cloves Minced.
- 3 large carrots Shredded.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/4 tsp salt
- ground black pepper To taste.
- 3 bay leaves
- 3 cups white or brown rice Rinsed and drained.
- 3 3/4 cups water
- fresh dill or parsley Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
- Turn on the Sauté function on your Instant Pot. Once hot, add olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Press Cancel. Stir in thyme, oregano, and cumin. Cook for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
- Add chicken, shredded carrots, rice, water, salt, pepper, and bay leaves in that order. Do not stir.
- Close the lid, set the valve to Sealing. Pressure Cook on High: 10 minutes for white rice, 22 minutes for brown rice.
- Once done, Quick Release by turning the valve to Venting. Carefully open the lid after pressure drops.
- Fluff rice gently and sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice isn’t just a recipe—it’s dinner solved. With just a few pantry staples, your trusty Instant Pot, and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a cozy, hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table (yes, even the picky ones). Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this one deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.
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For additional simple chicken recipes : Real Simple – 14 Easy Chicken and Rice Recipes for Every Day of the Week