Name: Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American with Middle Eastern spices
Ingredients: 1 tsp cumin; 1/2 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp allspice; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 chicken breasts; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cup white button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced; 1 carrot, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup frozen peas; 1 1/2 cup Basmati rice; 2 cups water

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 31 reviews

If you’ve ever wished for a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and comes together without any fuss, then this Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is your new best friend. Combining tender chicken breasts, fragrant basmati rice, and a colorful mix of veggies all seasoned with a warm blend of spices, this meal packs big flavor in a quick 28 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or just craving a satisfying, wholesome dinner, this recipe delivers all the heartiness you want with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows fresh raw ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a white square plate in the center with two pieces of light pink raw chicken. To the upper right, bright orange carrots lay side by side. Below the carrots, a white bowl with a brown rim is filled with uncooked white rice. On the left side of the chicken, there are several fresh white mushrooms grouped together. Below the mushrooms, a small white plate holds a variety of colorful ground spices including brown, red, and black shades. A small round glass bowl filled with green peas is placed beneath the spices. To the right of the peas is a small white bowl with golden olive oil. Below the chicken and olive oil, there is a small wooden bowl filled with coarse white salt. To the right of the chicken are a whole red pepper, a whole garlic bulb, and a round yellow onion arranged in a line. The overall layout is bright and organized, showcasing each ingredient clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly simple but incredibly important to make the magic happen. Each one brings a layer of taste, texture, or eye-catching color that elevates the dish beyond basic chicken and rice.

1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a warm earthiness that’s the backbone of your spice blend.

½ teaspoon coriander: Lends a slightly citrusy, floral note for brightness.
½ teaspoon allspice: Brings subtle depth with hints of clove and cinnamon.
¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Offers a gentle sweetness to balance the spices.

¼ teaspoon paprika: For mild smokiness and a lovely color.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat to keep things lively.

2 chicken breasts: Your tender protein, perfect for quick cooking.
2 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin): For sautéing and adding a fruity richness.
1 yellow onion (chopped): Builds a sweet and savory foundation.

3 cloves garlic (minced): Punches up the aroma and depth.
1 ½ cup white button mushrooms (cleaned and sliced): Adds an earthy, meaty texture.
1 carrot (diced): Adds sweetness and a pop of color.

1 red bell pepper (diced): For sweetness and vibrant red hues.
½ cup frozen peas: Pops of green and fresh flavor.
1 ½ cup Basmati rice: The fragrant grain that soaks up all the delicious juices.

2 cups water: The perfect amount for tender rice and moist chicken.

How to Make Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix and Season the Chicken

Start by mixing all your spices — cumin, coriander, allspice, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and black pepper — in a small bowl. Divide the mix into two halves. Use one half to thoroughly season both sides of your chicken breasts. Let them rest for a few minutes while you get everything else ready; this helps the flavors soak in and builds a beautiful seasoning base for the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Turn on your Instant Pot’s sauté function and heat the olive oil until shimmering. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and turn golden—this releases the sweetest, most inviting aromas. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté just until they start to release their moisture. Now stir in the diced carrot and peas, mixing everything to combine the layers of flavor and color beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Rice with Spices and Broth

Add the basmati rice and your remaining half of the spice mix into the pot. Stir well so every grain is coated with those fragrant spices and mingles with the veggies. Pour in the water, then take a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot gently to ensure nothing sticks—that little step prevents any pesky burn notices during pressure cooking.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Pressure Cook

Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the rice and vegetable mixture without stirring; this layering helps the chicken stay juicy and tender as it cooks. Lock the lid onto your Instant Pot, set the valve to the “sealing” position. Press “cancel” to stop sauté mode, then select “pressure cook” on high and set the timer for 8 minutes. This short but powerful pressure cooking time perfectly cooks both the chicken and rice in one go.

Step 5: Let the Pressure Release Naturally, Then Serve

Once the cooking time ends, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes—this gentle cooldown makes the chicken even more tender and the rice fluffier. After that, carefully do a quick release to let out any remaining steam. Open the lid, and just like that, your Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is ready to serve. It’s almost too good to be true how simple and satisfying this dish comes together.

How to Serve Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe

The image shows a step-by-step cooking process in six frames. The first frame presents raw chicken pieces on a wooden board sprinkled with brown spices. The second frame displays a pan with sliced mushrooms and diced red bell peppers cooking. The third frame reveals a close-up of a mix of cooked rice, orange diced carrots, and green peas. The fourth frame captures a woman's hand placing the seasoned chicken pieces into the pan with the vegetables. The fifth frame shows the chicken pieces browned on top, resting on the mix of rice and vegetables in the pan. The last frame features shredded cooked chicken mixed with the rice and vegetables, with visible chunks of carrot and mushroom inside. The background in all frames is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds fresh herbal brightness and a vibrant green pop that makes the dish feel special. For a touch of creaminess and slight tang, a dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side pairs beautifully. A wedge of lemon is optional but highly recommended—it gives the whole dish a subtle zing that lifts all the flavors.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is perfectly balanced on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette keeps things light and fresh. Roasted or steamed green beans or asparagus complement the warmth of the chicken and rice without overwhelming it. If you’d like a heartier accompaniment, warm naan bread or pita is wonderful for scooping up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting family-style presentation, serve right in your Instant Pot with a large wooden spoon, letting everyone dig in directly. For a more elegant dinner, plate the chicken on a bed of rice, then spoon some sautéed vegetables on the side, finishing with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. If you’re meal prepping or taking lunches to work, pack the chicken and rice in separate compartments to maintain freshness before reheating.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to meld even more with time, making great next-day meals. Be sure to store the chicken and rice together so they maintain their moisture and texture.

Freezing

This Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Properly frozen, it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry. You can also reheat over low heat on the stovetop in a covered skillet, allowing the steam to refresh the grains and warm the chicken evenly. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?

Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more water, so it’s not ideal for this specific recipe’s timing. If you want to use brown rice, you may need to adjust the cook time and liquid amounts, or cook it separately for best results.

Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicy and can add extra richness to the dish. Keep the same cooking time, but check that they are cooked through before serving, as thickness can vary.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add extra mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for protein. You may want to increase the sauté time for vegetables to boost flavor and consider using vegetable broth instead of water.

Do I need to rinse the basmati rice before cooking?

Rinsing basmati rice removes excess starch and helps prevent it from becoming sticky. It’s a simple step to make your rice fluffy and separate, so it’s recommended before cooking.

What is the best way to prevent the Instant Pot burn warning?

To avoid burn warnings, always sauté your vegetables thoroughly to release their moisture, scrape the bottom of the pot well after adding rice and water, and don’t stir after placing the chicken on top. These steps ensure nothing sticks and triggers the burn notice.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipe is a true kitchen triumph — from the first step to the last bite, it delights with its blend of spices, textures, and speedy convenience. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do because it’s not only a lifesaver for busy nights but a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a big hug at the dinner table. Give it a try and watch it become your go-to recipe for fuss-free, flavorful dinners!