7+ Easy Instant Pot Chicken & Rice Recipes for Two

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If you're looking for quick and satisfying meals for two, Instant Pot chicken and rice recipes are a perfect solution. They combine convenience with delicious flavors, making weeknight dinners a breeze. With options like lemon garlic and spicy southwest, there's something for everyone. Plus, you'll minimize cleanup with just one pot. Curious about the recipes that can transform your dinner routine? Let's explore the flavorful possibilities together.

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Key Takeaways

Classic Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a quick, one-pot meal perfect for two, with customizable ingredients for varied flavors.
Try Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice for a zesty twist that's easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion.
Spicy Southwest Chicken and Rice offers a flavorful kick, combining chicken with beans and corn, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner for two.
Unique variations like Teriyaki Chicken and Rice or Thai Coconut Chicken and Rice provide diverse flavor profiles while remaining easy to cook.
Use the Instant Pot's sauté function to enhance flavors, and consider using different rice types for personalized meals for two.

Classic Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Classic Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and fluffy rice in a deliciously seasoned broth. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for families.

The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and the rice perfectly cooked.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal to feed a crowd or a simple dinner for two, Classic Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is sure to satisfy.

Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything is cooked in one pot, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme, then add it to the pot, browning it on both sides for about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add the rice, chicken broth, and peas (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully turning the valve to venting.

Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers along with the rice.

You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter dish. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Always check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice

Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice is a delightful and vibrant dish that's perfect for any occasion. The zesty flavor of lemon combined with the aromatic essence of garlic elevates the humble chicken and rice combo to a whole new level.

This recipe isn't only simple to make but also a great way to enjoy a wholesome meal with minimal effort, thanks to the Instant Pot. In just a short amount of time, you can have a delicious dinner ready that will impress family and friends alike.

This dish is a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The chicken becomes incredibly tender as it cooks alongside the rice, while the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve it up with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that's sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn. Next, add the chicken thighs to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until lightly browned.

After the chicken is browned, add the rice, chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest into the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For an even more pronounced lemon flavor, consider adding lemon wedges or slices on top of the chicken before sealing the pot.

If you prefer a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the seasonings. Don't forget to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken thighs; thicker pieces may require a couple of extra minutes.

Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice!

Spicy Southwest Chicken and Rice

Spicy Southwest Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the heat while remaining incredibly easy to prepare in your Instant Pot. This one-pot meal combines tender chicken with zesty spices, vibrant bell peppers, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to provide a delightful punch of flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the convenience of the Instant Pot, which allows you to sauté, pressure cook, and serve all in one vessel.

With just a handful of ingredients, you'll have a hearty meal ready in no time. Pair it with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or fresh cilantro for an added touch, and enjoy the rich and spicy flavors that will warm your soul.

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 bell pepper, diced (red, green, or yellow)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

To begin, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and bell peppers, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.

Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pot, followed by the rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Stir everything together to combine. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 10 minutes.

Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Open the lid, shred the chicken with two forks, and mix everything together.

Serve hot and top with your choice of avocado, sour cream, or cilantro.

Extra Tips: To enhance the flavor even more, consider marinating the chicken in the taco seasoning and a splash of lime juice for a few hours before cooking. This will infuse the meat with extra zest.

Don't forget to adjust the spice level by adding diced jalapeños or chili powder to suit your taste. This dish also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later!

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice

Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen with the help of an Instant Pot. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a savory homemade teriyaki sauce, all cooked together with rice to create a complete meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick and delicious without compromising on flavor.

Using an Instant Pot makes this teriyaki chicken and rice dish incredibly easy to prepare. The pressure cooking method guarantees that the chicken remains juicy while infusing the rice with all the flavors of the teriyaki sauce. In just under 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome dinner ready to serve, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking to simplify their meal prep.

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1 cup jasmine rice
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by preparing the teriyaki sauce. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Turn the Instant Pot on to the sauté mode and add the chicken thighs. Brown the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Once browned, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and then add the rice and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes, then switch to a quick release to release any remaining pressure.

To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Turn the Instant Pot back to sauté mode and stir in the slurry until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, serve the chicken and rice hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Extra Tips:

For an even more flavorful dish, consider marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking by placing them on top of the chicken and rice before sealing the pot. This will allow the veggies to steam perfectly and add extra nutrition and color to your meal. Enjoy your homemade teriyaki chicken and rice!

Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice

Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fluffy rice in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal comes together quickly in the Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked dinner without the hassle.

The combination of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite, and it's easy to customize based on your preferences. Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in the flavors, ensuring that every bite is filled with deliciousness.

This dish isn't only satisfying but also offers a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meal. Whether served as a main dish or accompanied by a side salad, Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Begin by setting your Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode. Add olive oil and let it heat for a minute. Then, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're tender.
Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the sautéed vegetables in the Instant Pot.
Add the rice and pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once finished, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Stir in the heavy cream until combined, and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Rice, consider adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing stage or some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary as a garnish.

You can also swap the heavy cream for a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half or coconut milk, for a different flavor profile. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the dish.

Finally, don't hesitate to add your favorite veggies, such as peas or spinach, to boost the nutritional value and add color to your plate!

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice

Mediterranean Chicken and Rice is a delightful one-pot dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken with fragrant rice, olives, tomatoes, and a medley of herbs, creating a meal that's both comforting and invigorating.

The Instant Pot makes cooking this dish a breeze, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and the rice perfectly cooked. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Mediterranean Chicken and Rice isn't only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients.

It's a wonderful way to introduce your family to the rich and vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Serve it with a side salad or some warm pita bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

To prepare the Mediterranean Chicken and Rice, start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Next, add the diced onions and garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent.

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, browning them on both sides. Once the chicken is browned, stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olives, oregano, basil, and paprika. Mix everything well, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed.

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Carefully open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Extra Tips: For a more robust flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the mixture for added nutrition.

If you prefer a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a spicy kick.

Barbecue Chicken and Rice

Barbecue Chicken and Rice is a delicious, hearty meal that combines tender chicken with the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, all served over fluffy rice. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly in the Instant Pot, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of flavors is sure to please the whole family, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up this barbecue chicken and rice in no time. Whether you're entertaining guests or looking for a quick and easy dinner solution, this recipe will satisfy your cravings while keeping your prep and cleanup minimal. Plus, it's an excellent way to use up leftover chicken if you have any on hand.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a little oil. Once hot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Next, add the seasoned chicken to the pot and sear on both sides for a few minutes. Pour in the barbecue sauce, making sure the chicken is well coated, and then add the rice followed by the chicken broth.

Seal the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to the sealing position. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release of about 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to release any remaining pressure.

Open the lid, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Extra Tips:

For best results, use a barbecue sauce that complements the flavors you enjoy. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and color.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some chili powder or hot sauce to the mix. This dish can also be easily doubled for larger gatherings; just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Enjoy your flavorful barbecue chicken and rice!

Thai Coconut Chicken and Rice

Thai Coconut Chicken and Rice is a delightful dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with tender chicken and fragrant jasmine rice, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This recipe isn't only quick but also incredibly flavorful, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends with a taste of Thailand.

The creamy coconut sauce, paired with the subtle heat of ginger and the freshness of lime, creates a comforting yet exotic meal that everyone will love. To enhance this dish, the addition of vegetables like bell peppers or peas can provide color and extra nutrition.

The Instant Pot locks in all the flavors and moisture, guaranteeing that the chicken is juicy and the rice absorbs all the wonderful coconut-infused broth. Serve it garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a splash of oil. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, add the ginger and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice, stirring to combine.
Add the rinsed jasmine rice and stir gently to confirm the rice is submerged in the liquid. Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice, soy sauce, and grated ginger for a couple of hours before cooking. This will deepen the flavor profile of the dish.

Additionally, feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables during the cooking process; just confirm they're cut into small pieces for even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated for a quick meal the next day. Enjoy your delicious Thai Coconut Chicken and Rice!

Herb Butter Chicken and Rice

The great thing about this recipe is how simple it's to prepare. You can use fresh or dried herbs depending on what you have on hand, and the Instant Pot guarantees that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful while the rice cooks to perfection.

Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will satisfy your taste buds.