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–+ servings

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

A quick and flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice, cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed under cold water
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon paprika for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 cup frozen peas optional, for color and nutrition

Method
 

Sauté the Chicken
  1. Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat for about 2 minutes until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent. This step builds flavor by softening the onion.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Add Rice and Liquid
  1. Pour in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, and water. Stir well to combine, ensuring no rice is stuck to the bottom of the pot, which can cause a burn notice.
Pressure Cook
  1. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to 'Sealing'. Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' mode and set the timer for 10 minutes.
  2. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
Finish and Serve
  1. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. If using, stir in the frozen peas at this stage, allowing them to warm through.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in spices and a bit of lemon juice for 30 minutes before cooking. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

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