Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
This Instant Pot chicken and rice is an easy one-pot dinner made with chicken thighs, rice, frozen vegetables, and pantry spices. Simple and family friendly.
Prep Time8 minutes mins
Cook Time12 minutes mins
Natural Release10 minutes mins
Total Time32 minutes mins
Course: Main Dish Recipes
Cuisine: American
Keyword: instant pot chicken and rice
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 272kcal
- 6 skinless bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long grain white rice rinsed thoroughly
- 1¾ cups chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning, optional
- ½ cup frozen vegetables peas or veggie mix – no need to thaw
Set the Instant Pot to Sauté. Add 1 Tablespoon olive oil.
Sear 6 skinless bone-in chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Press Cancel to turn off Sauté mode. Add 1 cup long grain white rice (rinsed), 1¾ cups chicken broth, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme (if using). Stir gently to combine.
Sprinkle ½ cup frozen vegetables evenly on top of the rice. Do not stir.
Place the browned chicken thighs on top (bone side down). Do not press down or mix in.
Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes
Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the chicken. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a one-pot meal or pair with a fresh salad.
- Add hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon for a flavor boost.
- Kid-friendly and great for meal prep. Just portion and refrigerate!
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions with a splash of water. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, fluffing in between.
- Freezing: Freeze in single-serve portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or reheat directly from frozen with a splash of broth or water.
Notes
- Use 1¾ cups liquid for fluffy, distinct grains.
- Simple pantry spices keep it kid-friendly and fuss-free, but feel free to season to taste.
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 272kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 98mg | Sodium: 742mg | Potassium: 343mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 803IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 2mg