Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

A warm, savory aroma fills the air as you unveil a delightful pot of creamy chicken and rice, promising comfort in every bite. Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a reliable choice for busy weeknights, and the convenience of the Instant Pot ensures perfectly cooked rice every time.

This recipe is perfect for families seeking an easy, wholesome meal. It’s also great for anyone looking to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, leftovers store well for enjoyment later in the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a one-pot meal, minimizing cleanup.
• The chicken remains tender and juicy with every serving.
• Creamy, rich flavors from the heavy cream elevate basic ingredients.
• Frozen peas add a burst of color and freshness.

What You’ll Need

Let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delicious dish.

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper

For the Rice

• 1 cup rice, any type you prefer
• 2 cups chicken broth

For the Aromatics

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creaminess

• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Use any broth for flavor; fresh garlic is more aromatic.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be replaced with thighs.
• Heavy cream can be substituted with half and half.
• Frozen peas may be swapped for corn or green beans.
• Olive oil can be replaced with vegetable oil.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal.

Sauté

Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant, usually about 2-3 minutes.

Add Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Sear on both sides for about 2 minutes for extra flavor.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and add the rice. Stir briefly to combine all ingredients evenly.

Pressure Cook

Close the lid, set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Make sure the valve is properly sealed for best results.

Quick Release

Once done, use quick release to release the pressure carefully. Wait until the steam has fully escaped before opening the lid.

Finish the Dish

Stir in frozen peas and heavy cream until everything is combined and heated through. Cook for an additional 2 minutes on sauté mode if needed.

Serve

Spoon the delicious chicken and rice into bowls, and enjoy it warm!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, but not recommended for best texture.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Season the chicken well for extra flavor throughout the dish.
• Use fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
• Stir the mixture gently after pressure cooking to avoid breaking the rice.
• Adjust the cream quantity for desired creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Enjoy as a comforting dish on chilly evenings.