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Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

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Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a creamy, one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, Parmesan cheese, and a fresh lemon twist. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, providing comfort and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic

  • 1½ cups long-grain white rice, rinsed

  • 3–4 cups chicken broth (3 cups for firmer rice; 4 cups for softer, creamier rice)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (juice from approximately 1 lemon)

  • 1 cup shredded or grated fresh Parmesan cheese, at room temperature

  • 1½ teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  • Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are opaque on all sides.

  • Deglaze the Pot: Pour ¼ cup of chicken broth into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to prevent the “burn” notice.

  • Add Rice and Broth: Turn off Sauté mode. Stir in the rinsed rice, ensuring it’s well mixed with the chicken and aromatics. Pour in the remaining chicken broth (3 cups for firmer rice; 4 cups for softer rice) and add the lemon juice. Stir to combine, making sure no rice is sticking to the bottom.

  • Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Select Manual High Pressure and set the cook time to 8 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before cooking begins.

  • Natural Release: Once the cooking time ends, let the pressure naturally release for 2 minutes. Then, carefully perform a Quick Release to release any remaining pressure.

  • Finish the Dish: Remove the lid and stir the chicken and rice. If there is excess liquid, set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and cook until absorbed. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

  • Serve: Spoon the chicken and rice onto serving plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Rice Texture: Use 3 cups of broth for firmer rice or 4 cups for softer, creamier rice.

  • Rice Type: It’s best to use long-grain white rice for this recipe; brown rice or instant rice require different cook times and may not work as well.

  • Vegetable Add-ins: Add steamed broccoli florets at the end, stirring them in and letting the residual heat cook them to tenderness.

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/dreamy-instant-pot-chicken-and-rice/