Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice Recipe
This Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and mixed vegetables in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it uses the Instant Pot to deliver flavorful, perfectly cooked chicken and rice in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
Rice and Liquids
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Dairy and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics and chicken: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil, then add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and onions are translucent. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned on the outside.
- Add rice, broth, and vegetables: Pour in the rinsed rice, chicken broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir everything together to combine evenly. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Pressure cook the mixture: Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure by switching the valve to venting.
- Add cream and cheese: Open the lid, and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and rice hot. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added flavor and color.
Notes
- Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming gummy.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels, especially if watching sodium intake.
- For a lighter dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the texture will be less rich.
- Make sure to release pressure carefully after the natural release to avoid any burns.
- Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for extra brightness.
Keywords: instant pot, creamy chicken and rice, one pot meal, quick dinner, pressure cooker recipes, creamy chicken, easy dinner