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Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great. Reduce the pressure cook time to 10 minutes instead of 12.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
  • ½ lemon juiced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 packet Sazón
  • 1 teaspoon Adobo seasoning
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • ½ green bell pepper diced (or red bell pepper)
  • 1 chicken bouillon cube
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • cups water or low-sodium chicken broth for extra flavor
  • 2 cups jasmine rice rinsed
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken thighs. Season evenly with minced garlic, oregano, dried cilantro, cumin, paprika, Sazon, Adobo seasoning, and black pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly.
  2. Set the Instant Pot to Saute mode. Add the olive oil and granulated sugar, allowing the sugar to caramelize until it turns a light golden brown. Be careful not to burn it.
  3. Once the sugar is caramelized, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the Instant Pot. Saute for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the chicken bouillon cube and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to enhance the flavors.
  5. Pour in the water and rinsed jasmine rice, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
  6. Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Do not stir after this point.
  7. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to Pressure Cook on High for 8 minutes. Once done, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
  8. Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve the chicken and rice together. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

Storage & Meal Prep
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or in a 350°F oven until heated through.