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Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice is a dish that embodies comfort and convenience. I can vividly recall my first experience with this delightful recipe on a busy weeknight when my family needed a warm, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy texture, the tender chicken, and the perfectly cooked rice create a dish that not only fills your belly but warms your heart. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delicious one-pot wonder in no time. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids or preparing a meal for one, this dish definitely deserves a spot in your weeknight rotation.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
What sets this recipe apart is its effortless balance of flavors and textures. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to give it a shot:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes. No need to babysit the stove!
- Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples like chicken, rice, and broth, it’s easy on the wallet too.
- Kid-Approved: The creamy sauce and tender chicken have universal appeal—picky eaters rejoice!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish works for all occasions.
"This recipe has become a family favorite! It’s so creamy and delicious—never a leftover in sight!"
Preparing Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
Cooking this dish is a breeze, making it a suitable choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect when preparing it:
- Sauté onions and garlic to build a flavorful base.
- Brown the chicken for an added depth of flavor.
- Add in the rice and broth, then pressure-cook for a perfectly cooked meal.
- Stir in the cream and optional peas for that signature creaminess.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on your table quickly!
Gather Your Ingredients
To make Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup rice (you can use white or brown)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Feel free to substitute the chicken with your favorite protein or leave out the peas if you’re not a fan.
Step-by-Step Directions
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Sauté: Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a splash of oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant.
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Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Brown the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
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Add the Rice and Seasonings: Next, stir in the rice, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is combined and well-coated.
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Pressure Cook: Close the lid securely. Set the Instant Pot to manual mode and cook for 10 minutes.
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Release the Pressure: After the cooking time is complete, let the pot sit for 5 minutes for a natural release. Then, quick release any remaining pressure.
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Stir in Cream and Peas: Open the lid and pour in the heavy cream. Add frozen peas if you’re using them, then stir until well combined.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Perfect Pairings for Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
This dish is not only flavorful on its own, but it pairs well with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken and rice.
- Garlic Bread: Something about buttery garlic bread complements creamy dishes perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans offer a nutritious boost and a nice crunch.
Best Way to Store Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
If you happen to have leftovers, here are some tips for storing them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the creamy chicken and rice for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
Pro Chef Tips
To enhance your cooking experience and results, consider these tips:
- Don’t skip the browning: Searing the chicken adds a great depth of flavor to the dish.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to tweak the Italian seasoning or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Flavor Variations
If you’re ready to switch things up, here are some creative twists you can try:
- Curry Flavor: Swap in curry powder instead of Italian seasoning for a delicious twist.
- Cheesy Chicken and Rice: Stir in some shredded cheese before serving for an extra creamy and cheesy flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Common Questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 10 minutes in the Instant Pot.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! If using brown rice, increase the cooking time to 22 minutes.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Make sure to measure the liquid accurately, and do not skip the natural release time, which helps stabilize the rice.
With these tips and insights, you can create an unforgettable meal that your whole family will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe.
Print
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and convenient one-pot meal featuring tender chicken and creamy rice, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup rice (white or brown)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a splash of oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Brown the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Stir in the rice, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is combined.
- Close the lid securely. Set the Instant Pot to manual mode and cook for 10 minutes.
- After cooking, let the pot sit for 5 minutes for a natural release, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and pour in the heavy cream. Add frozen peas if using, then stir until well combined.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half. Adjust Italian seasoning to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Instant Pot, creamy chicken, rice, quick dinner, family meal, comfort food
