This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a quick and comforting one-pot meal that is sure to become a family favorite. It combines tender chicken breasts with flavorful rice, making it perfect for busy weeknights and providing a satisfying dinner option that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The Instant Pot ensures the chicken remains moist while the rice absorbs all the delicious broth, creating a satisfying meal that warms the soul. It’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, including low-carb and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to introduce more wholesome ingredients into your diet.
Tips and Tricks
- Rinse the Rice: Always rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent stickiness and ensures even cooking for perfect rice every time.
- Use Broth: If chicken broth isn’t available, water can be used, but broth enhances the flavor significantly. Be sure to scrape any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot to avoid burn warnings during cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to include your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots. For a fresh addition, add steamed broccoli after cooking to avoid mushiness and maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Freezing Leftovers
Leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy this dish later on a busy day when you need a quick meal without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Slow Cooker Compatibility
This recipe is designed specifically for the Instant Pot and may not yield the same results in a slow cooker. The rice could become mushy, and the liquid ratios differ, potentially leading to an unsatisfactory dish that lacks the desired texture and flavor.
What to Serve With It
Pair this dish with fresh fruits, a green salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal. For added nutrition, incorporate frozen vegetables like peas and corn; just stir them in gently after cooking. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can also enhance the flavor and add a burst of freshness, making the dish even more appealing.
Cooking Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, carrots, and onion, sautéing until softened (about 3-5 minutes) to develop a rich flavor base.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in rinsed brown rice, garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute before turning off the Instant Pot to combine flavors.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring to scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot. Make sure all ingredients are submerged in the liquid for even cooking and to prevent burning.
- Layer Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture without stirring. Seal the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes to achieve tender chicken.
- Release Pressure: Allow for a natural pressure release for 12 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining steam to ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.
- Finish Up: Once the float valve drops, open the pot, remove the chicken, and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Stir the chicken and frozen peas back into the rice mixture for a colorful presentation and added nutrition.
- Serve: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired for added flavor and a beautiful finish that makes the dish visually appealing.
Nutritional Information
This dish serves six and contains approximately 338 calories per serving, with 46 grams of carbohydrates, 23 grams of protein, and 6 grams of fat. It’s a balanced meal that provides essential nutrients while being hearty and satisfying, making it a nutritious choice for families looking to enjoy a wholesome dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor, perfect for any night of the week. The easy preparation and delicious results make it a go-to dish for chicken lovers. Enjoy this comforting meal and don’t forget to share it with friends and family on social media! With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire, making mealtime enjoyable and stress-free for everyone involved. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish will impress and satisfy.
