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Instant Pot Chicken and Rice: The Ultimate One-Pot Weeknight Dinner

This instant pot chicken and rice recipe delivers a comforting, satisfying meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup using a single pot. It transforms simple ingredients into a family-friendly dinner featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and wonderful aromatics that fill your kitchen with home-cooked comfort.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 24 minutes
Total Time 34 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 425
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prep your ingredients by dicing onion, mincing garlic, and measuring out all ingredients. Rinse the rice under cold water until water runs clear to prevent sticky rice.
  2. Turn your instant pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add chicken pieces to the pot and brown for 2-3 minutes per side. You don't need to cook them through - just get some color for extra flavor.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add rinsed rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently.
  5. Secure the instant pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select pressure cook/manual mode and set for 8 minutes on high pressure.
  6. Once cooking is complete, allow for a 10-minute natural pressure release. Then carefully turn the valve to venting position to release any remaining pressure.
  7. Open the lid away from you. Remove chicken pieces and shred or slice as desired. Stir in frozen peas and carrots, then return shredded chicken to the pot. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Rice selection matters: Use long-grain white rice and rinse it well to remove excess starch. Natural release is key for fluffy rice. Customize vegetables based on preference. For creamier texture, stir in heavy cream or Greek yogurt after cooking.