If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that is both delicious and nutritious, look no further than chicken and rice cooked in an Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen appliance is a game-changer when it comes to making meals in a flash, and chicken and rice are the perfect combination for a satisfying dinner. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process of how to cook chicken and rice in an Instant Pot, ensuring a flavorful and wholesome outcome every time.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before you begin, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need the following:
– 2 cups of long-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 3 cups of chicken broth
– 1 cup of frozen peas (optional)
Preparing the Instant Pot
The first step is to prep your Instant Pot for cooking. Begin by selecting the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot and adjust it to the “Normal” heat setting. This will allow you to brown the chicken and sauté the onions and garlic, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Sautéing the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot, then add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Allow the chicken to cook for about 5 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side. Once done, remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set it aside.
Sautéing the Onions and Garlic
In the same Instant Pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent, typically taking around 2 minutes. Stir in the paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, ensuring that they coat the onions and garlic evenly.
Adding the Rice and Chicken Broth
Now, it’s time to add the rice and chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Pour in the rice and give it a good stir, allowing the grains to be coated with the flavorful mixture of spices, onions, and garlic. Next, pour in the chicken broth, which is crucial for cooking the rice to perfection.
Cooking under Pressure
Place the chicken thighs back into the Instant Pot, submerging them into the rice and broth mixture. Secure the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring it is properly sealed. Set the cooking function to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and adjust the timer to 10 minutes. Allow the Instant Pot to come to pressure, and then the cooking process will begin.
Releasing the Pressure
Once the timer goes off, it’s time to release the pressure. You can choose between performing a quick release or a natural release, depending on your preference and time availability. To do a quick release, carefully turn the pressure release valve from the sealing position to the venting position, allowing the steam to escape rapidly. For a natural release, allow the Instant Pot to cool down naturally until the pressure valve drops, indicating that the pressure has been released.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Once the pressure has been released, carefully remove the lid of the Instant Pot. Stir the chicken and rice mixture gently, ensuring that everything is well combined. At this point, you can add the frozen peas if desired, allowing them to thaw in the residual heat of the dish.
Enjoying Your Meal
Your chicken and rice cooked in an Instant Pot are now ready to be enjoyed. Spoon the flavorful mixture onto plates or into bowls, making sure to serve the tender chicken thighs on top of the aromatic rice. This dish can be a complete meal on its own, or you can pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of crusty bread.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken and rice in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to create a delicious and nutritious meal in no time. By following the step-by-step process mentioned above, you can achieve a flavorful combination of tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. The Instant Pot’s simplicity and efficiency make it a must-have kitchen appliance for those who want to save time without compromising on taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.