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Quick Creamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

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A quick and easy creamy chicken and rice dish made in the Instant Pot, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with simple pantry staples and no heavy cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into roughly 1-inch pieces. Mince the garlic and finely chop the onion.
  2. Turn the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot, season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook until just browned on the outside but not cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the rice, stirring to coat it in the oil and juices. Slowly add the chicken broth, ensuring the rice is submerged evenly. Scrape the bottom of the pot gently to deglaze.
  5. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 8 minutes.
  6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  7. Open the lid carefully. Immediately add the softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until melted and creamy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If too thick, stir in a splash of broth or milk to loosen. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not rush the natural pressure release to avoid mushy rice. Browning the chicken before pressure cooking adds flavor. Use softened cream cheese for a smooth sauce. Use long-grain white rice for best results. Deglaze the pot well to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, chicken and rice, creamy chicken, easy dinner, one pot meal, quick recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/quick-creamy-instant-pot-chicken-and-rice-recipe-easy-homemade-dinner/