The comfort of a warm, hearty meal is something we all crave from time to time, especially after a long day. There’s just something so soul-soothing about a creamy chicken dish paired with fluffy rice that can instantly elevate one’s mood. That’s where this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice comes into play—a meal that combines tender chicken, al dente rice, and a luscious creamy sauce into one pot for less mess and more flavor. With each bite, you’ll find a delightful balance of savory goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice

I still remember the first time I made this dish during a chilly evening when plans for dining out fell through. With a few simple ingredients and my trusty Instant Pot, I whipped up this creamy delight in no time. As the enticing aroma filled my kitchen, my family eagerly gathered around the table, ready to dig in. Everyone instantly loved it, and it quickly became a go-to recipe. I can’t wait for you to experience the same cozy joy that this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice brings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This dish takes just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes in the Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a satisfying, comforting dish that you’ll crave again and again.
All-in-One Meal: With protein and veggies cooked right in, you won’t have to worry about side dishes.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it for dinner, or repurpose it as a delicious lunch the next day!
Customizable: Easily modify this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices to cater to your family’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): This lean protein will cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. You can also substitute with thighs if you prefer a richer taste.
1 cup long grain white rice (rinsed): Rinsing the rice helps to prevent gumminess. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: This adds depth to the dish without being overwhelmingly salty. Homemade or store-bought works well.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans): A convenient way to incorporate veggies without the prep work. Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables.
1 small onion (finely chopped): Onions add a wonderful layer of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-chopped onion.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds a fragrant and savory note to this dish.
1/2 cup heavy cream: This gives the sauce a rich, luscious texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Enhancing creaminess and flavor, you can also try other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous.
1 tablespoon olive oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the onions and garlic without sticking. You can use other neutral oils if preferred.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning, but feel free to adjust according to taste.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle spice to balance the creamy elements.

How to Make Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice

Sauté Onions and Garlic: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Brown the Chicken: Add the 1 lb of chicken pieces, followed by 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is lightly browned and slightly cooked through.

Combine Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed rice, 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Make sure everything is well mixed, then secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing.

Pressure Cook: Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release to remove any remaining pressure.

Add Cream and Cheese: When the lid is carefully removed, drizzle in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and fold in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture becomes creamy and the cheese is fully melted.

Serve Hot: Serve your creamy chicken and rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra pop of color and flavor if desired. Gather around the table, dig in, and enjoy!

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer-term storage, transfer the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers and it will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the rice has thickened. The texture might change slightly upon reheating, but adding cream or broth will refresh its creaminess.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to avoid a gummy texture; it really helps to keep everything fluffy.
Browning the chicken adds a deeper flavor, so don’t rush this step!
If you’re unsure about cooking time, remember that using brown rice may require extra liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Consider adding a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost.
This dish can easily be a meal prep favorite; it’s perfect for making ahead of time and reheating.

The beauty of this Instant Pot Creamy Chicken and Rice lies not only in its ease of preparation but also in its delightful flavor that warms the heart. You’ll find yourself experimenting with various veggies and spices as you make this recipe your own, tailored to suit your cravings. The creamy goodness paired with tender chicken and fluffy rice is bound to become a comforting staple in your rotation.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! If you choose brown rice, be mindful that it requires more cooking time and additional liquid. Aim for about 1 ¼ cups of broth and increase the cooking time to 22 minutes on high pressure.

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?

Yes! Feel free to use boneless, skinless thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using different proteins.

What vegetables can I add to this dish?

You can customize this dish with any of your favorite veggies! Consider adding chopped bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach. Just make sure to maintain the total volume to keep the cooking times consistent.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Definitely! Simply swap the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or oat milk, and opt for a dairy-free cheese if you wish. This keeps the dish creamy without any dairy products.

More Instant Pot Recipes

Instant Pot Beef & Barley Soup (Hearty and Freezer-Friendly)

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