If you’ve ever wanted a comforting, wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is here to become your new go-to. Tender chicken breasts cooked right alongside fluffy, aromatic jasmine rice, all infused with a subtle lemony brightness and Italian herbs, make for an incredibly satisfying dish that’s effortless yet full of flavor. This recipe beautifully balances simplicity with heartwarming taste, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a cozy meal without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward but essential, coming together to create a dish packed with flavor and texture. From the fragrant garlic to the creamy butter, every component plays a vital role in elevating this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe.
- 4 chicken breasts: The star protein providing juicy, tender bites infused with all the spices and broth.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the onions and garlic to develop a savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant punch that awakens the other ingredients.
- 2.5 cups chicken broth: Ensures the rice cooks perfectly and infuses the dish with savory goodness.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a fresh, bright note that lifts the entire recipe.
- 1 cup white jasmine rice (or basmati), rinsed: Provides a tender, slightly sticky texture that complements the chicken.
- 4 dashes Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that imparts a fragrant, herby undertone.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the rice and sauce.
- 3 medium carrots (peeled & sliced, optional): Introduces a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning both sides of your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Simple seasoning is all it takes to enhance the natural chicken flavor as it cooks. Keep in mind that this recipe was tested on an older Instant Pot model, so if you own a newer one, watch out for burn warnings during the cooking process to ensure everything cooks beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Add the Base Ingredients
Press the sauté button on the Instant Pot and add olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic to release its aroma for about 30 seconds. Now it’s time for the flavorful liquids and rice: pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, then add your rinsed jasmine rice, Italian seasoning, and butter. If you’re including carrots, they go in here as well. Keep the sauté function active to maintain heat while adding all these components.
Step 3: Layer and Pressure Cook
Give the mixture a gentle stir to make sure no rice grains stick to the bottom of the pot; this helps avoid any burning during pressure cooking. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the rice mixture without submerging them. Secure the lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and cook on high pressure for exactly 12 minutes. This timing will cook the chicken fully while allowing the rice to soak up all those wonderful flavors in perfect harmony.
Step 4: Release Pressure and Finish
Once the timer goes off, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 5 minutes—this resting period helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken juicy. Afterward, turn the valve to quick release the remaining pressure. Open the lid carefully and give everything a gentle stir; the rice will have absorbed a little more liquid and be soft, creamy, and just a little sticky. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil really brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal layer that complements the Italian seasoning. A dash of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the creaminess and introduce a savory punch that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish works wonderfully as a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans make fresh, crunchy sides that contrast beautifully with the creamy rice and tender chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family-style presentation, serve this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe straight from the pot or in a large shallow bowl, letting everyone dig in. For a more elegant touch, plate individual servings garnished with lemon zest and a sprig of fresh herb, turning a humble meal into something special and restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish keeps well for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors often deepen as it rests, making the next day’s meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze this chicken and rice meal, but it’s best to do so without the garnish. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to break up any clumps and ensuring even warming. If the rice seems a bit dry, add a splash of broth or water to bring back its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
Brown rice has a different cooking time and liquid ratio, so using it in this Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe would require adjustments to both the pressure cooking time and the amount of broth. For best results, stick to white jasmine or basmati rice as recommended.
Is it necessary to rinse the rice before cooking?
Yes! Rinsing jasmine rice removes excess starch, preventing the dish from becoming too sticky and helping the grains stay fluffy and separate, which balances beautifully with the creamy texture from the butter and broth.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier. Keep the cooking time the same, but make sure the thighs are evenly distributed for uniform cooking.
What should I do if the Instant Pot shows a burn warning?
If you see a burn warning, it usually means something is stuck to the bottom. Try stirring the ingredients gently before pressure cooking, making sure nothing is clumped or stuck. Using enough broth and oil also helps prevent this issue.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
To adapt it, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or tofu. The Italian seasoning and lemon juice will keep the flavors vibrant and delicious even without meat.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is one of those delightful meals that feels both comforting and special, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into a soulful, flavorful dish you’ll want to make again and again. I hope you give it a try soon — your taste buds are in for a real treat!
Print
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are cooked alongside aromatic jasmine rice, garlic, and savory Italian seasoning in a rich chicken broth with a touch of lemon juice, resulting in a creamy, slightly sticky rice and moist chicken all in just about 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced (optional)
Liquids & Seasoning
- 2.5 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup white jasmine rice (or basmati), rinsed
- 4 dashes Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and pepper to build flavor from the start.
- Sauté Aromatics: Press the sauté function on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil and chopped onion; cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic to release its fragrance.
- Add Liquids and Rice: While keeping the sauté mode on, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, rinsed rice, Italian seasoning, butter, and optional sliced carrots. Stir well to combine and prevent sticking.
- Position Chicken and Cook: Give the mixture a good stir, making sure nothing is stuck to the bottom, then lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select high pressure cooking for 12 minutes.
- Pressure Release and Serve: When the cooking cycle ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release. Open the lid, stir the rice gently to combine flavors and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy texture and tender chicken.
Notes
- Newer models of Instant Pot might show burn warnings; monitor closely to prevent burning.
- Rinsing the jasmine or basmati rice beforehand helps reduce excess starch and prevents clumping.
- Adding carrots is optional but enhances nutrition and adds sweetness.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Natural pressure release improves the texture of the rice and chicken.
