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Easy Creamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

easy creamy instant pot chicken and rice - featured image
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A quick and comforting Instant Pot recipe featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy finish with cream cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or chopped spinach

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add olive oil and butter. When melted and hot, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add chicken pieces to the pot, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir occasionally to brown the chicken lightly on all sides.
  5. Pour in the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Stir gently to combine, making sure rice is submerged but avoid stirring too vigorously.
  6. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ on high for 10 minutes.
  7. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
  8. Open the lid and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. If using frozen peas or spinach, stir them in now to wilt.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm.

Notes

Rinsing the rice is essential to avoid gummy texture. Use softened cream cheese for best creamy finish; microwave for 15 seconds if needed. Natural pressure release is key for tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. For dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese or coconut cream. For gluten-free, ensure broth is certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, chicken and rice, creamy chicken recipe, quick dinner, pressure cooker meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/easy-creamy-instant-pot-chicken-and-rice-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/