Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of creamy cheese with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The rich, savory taste will surely impress your family and friends, ensuring this becomes a go-to meal in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of cheese and chicken creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will love.
• One-Pot Wonder: Say goodbye to multiple dishes! Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Customizable: You can add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own.
• Perfect Leftovers: Enjoy delicious leftovers that reheat well for lunch or dinner the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker saves time by pressure cooking, allowing you to prepare meals quickly with minimal effort.
• Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: These are vital for efficiently chopping ingredients like onions and garlic, ensuring uniform cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time you make this cheesy chicken dish.

Ingredients

Inspired by risotto (but without all the hard work), this rich, creamy, and super delicious Instant Pot chicken and rice recipe is sure to be a family favorite.

For the Base

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup chopped white onion (approximately 1 medium onion)
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic (approximately 4 large cloves)

For the Rice Mixture

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (rinsed)
• 3-4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (juice from approximately 1 large lemon)

For Flavoring

• 1 cup shredded fresh parmesan (or grated, at room temperature)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt (more or less to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (more or less to taste)

How to Make Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté Butter

Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add 4 tablespoons unsalted butter to the insert and let it melt completely.

Step 2: Stir in Aromatics

When the butter has melted, add 1 cup chopped white onion and 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic. Stir well and sauté for approximately 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Sauté Chicken

Add 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the insert. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is opaque on all sides.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Add 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, followed by 3-4 cups of chicken broth (3 cups for firmer rice; 4 cups for softer rice), along with the juice from 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon. Stir thoroughly to combine everything while scraping the bottom of the insert to loosen any stuck bits.

Step 5: Set Instant Pot

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot with the valve in Sealing position. Select Manual High Pressure mode and set cook time to 8 minutes. The Instant Pot will pressurize before starting the timer.

Step 6: Natural Release

Once the cooking time ends, allow a Natural Release of internal pressure for about 2 minutes. Be cautious not to release pressure longer than this as it may overcook the rice.

Step 7: Quick Release

Carefully perform a Quick Release of any remaining pressure. Remove the lid with caution due to hot steam escaping.

Step 8: Mix Well

Stir the chicken and rice mixture well. If there’s excess liquid after cooking, set Instant Pot back to Sauté mode until it’s fully absorbed into the rice.

Step 9: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Taste your mixture! Then stir in:

• 1 cup shredded fresh parmesan
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Continue stirring until everything is well combined. Adjust seasoning further if desired.

Step 10: Serve

Once satisfied with the flavor profile of your cheesy chicken mix, portion into servings. Garnish with extra parmesan if desired and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!

With just a few simple steps, you will have made an incredible dish that will become a staple in your home!

How to Serve Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Serving Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice can elevate your dining experience. This dish is versatile and works well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich, creamy flavors.

With a Fresh Green Salad

• A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans, which add color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.

Over a Bed of Spinach

• Spoon the cheesy chicken and rice over fresh spinach. The heat will wilt the spinach slightly, creating a deliciously warm bed for the meal.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Perfecting your Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out great every time:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Measure Broth Carefully: Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on your preferred rice texture—less for firmer rice, more for softer rice.
• Sauté Aromatics Thoroughly: Take your time when sautéing onions and garlic; proper cooking enhances their flavors.
• Natural Release Time: Allow for the 2-minute Natural Release to prevent overcooked rice while maintaining creaminess.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or lemon juice before serving to ensure optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the creamy texture of the chicken and rice perfectly.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the richness of the main dish.
3. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A light salad brings freshness to your plate with minimal effort.
4. Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this side is low-carb yet satisfying.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty grain adds protein while providing a different texture that pairs well.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs offers a delightful complement without stealing the limelight from your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking in the Instant Pot can be tricky if you’re not familiar with its functions. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic first can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always start by sautéing aromatics to enhance the taste.
• Not measuring rice and broth correctly: Using too much or too little rice or broth can affect the texture. Follow the recommended ratios for best results.
• Overcooking during Natural Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to release pressure for longer than 2 minutes can make your rice mushy. Stick to the specified time for perfect consistency.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasonings after cooking is crucial. Don’t skip this step; it allows you to customize flavors to your liking.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold chicken or broth can disrupt cooking times. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

• Portion into freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer dish to an oven-safe container, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and melted cheese all cooked in one pot.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

The total time from prep to finish is about 40 minutes, including both cooking time and natural release.

Can I customize the ingredients in Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas or spinach or swap out chicken for turkey or beef depending on your preference.

What type of cheese works best in this recipe?

While parmesan is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for different flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is not just easy but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or cheeses based on your family’s preferences. This dish promises comfort with every bite, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Give this recipe a try; your family will love it!