Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Instant Pot chicken and rice is a delicious and hearty one-pot meal that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This savory dish is packed with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a blend of flavorful seasonings that come together in perfect harmony. Using an Instant Pot makes this recipe a breeze, as it cooks everything together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is not only delicious, but it's also healthy and satisfying, making it a great choice for busy families who are looking for a quick and easy dinner solution. Whether you're new to the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this chicken and rice recipe is sure to become a family favorite!

Arroz con pollo is a popular dish in many Latin American countries, but the exact origin of the dish is unclear. Some sources suggest that it originated in Spain and was brought over to Latin America during colonial times. Others suggest that it was developed in Latin America using local ingredients.

The use of an Instant Pot to make arroz con pollo is a relatively new trend. Instant Pot is a brand of multicooker that has become very popular in recent years. It allows you to cook food quickly and easily, using pressure cooking and other cooking modes. The Instant Pot has become a popular tool for making arroz con pollo because it simplifies the cooking process and reduces the amount of time required to make the dish.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken thighs. However, the cooking time may need to be adjusted as boneless chicken breasts will cook faster than bone-in chicken thighs.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.

Can I use chicken broth instead of a chicken bouillon cube?

Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of a chicken bouillon cube. Instead of water, use chicken broth.

Can I make this recipe on the stove instead of in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make this recipe on the stove. Simply follow the same steps, but use a large pot instead of an Instant Pot. Once you've added all the ingredients, bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender, which should take about 25-30 minutes.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the arroz con pollo in the fridge overnight and then reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

Can I use long or short-grain rice instead of jasmine rice?

Yes, you can use long or short-grain rice instead of jasmine rice. However, keep in mind that the texture, flavor, and aroma of the dish may be slightly different. Jasmine rice has a distinct floral aroma and a slightly sticky texture when cooked, which may not be replicated with other types of rice.

Make it

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Ingredients:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/2 lemon

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp oregano

1 tsp dried cilantro

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp paprika

1 packet Sazon

1 tsp Adobo seasoning

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp granulated sugar

1 medium-sized onion, diced

1/2 green bell pepper, diced (or red bell pepper)

1 chicken bouillon cube

1 tbsp tomato paste

2 1/2 cups water

2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed

Fresh cilantro or parsley to garnish

Instructions:

Squeeze the lemon over the chicken thighs and season them with the garlic, oregano, cilantro, cumin, paprika, Sazon, Adobo seasoning, and black pepper. Toast the seasonings and ensure that the chicken is coated evenly.

Set the Instant Pot to the saute setting and add the olive oil and granulated sugar. Cook off the sugar until it turns a light brown, being careful not to let it burn.

Once the sugar has turned a light brown color, add the chicken and sear until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and saute until soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the chicken bouillon cube and tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.

Add the water and rice, stirring to incorporate all the ingredients.

Bring the chicken pieces back into the pot, and using the Instant Pot lid, close it.

Change the setting to pressure cook on high for 12 minutes and let it cook.

Once the time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes.

Serve and enjoy your delicious and flavorful Arroz con Pollo made in the Instant Pot.