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Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice

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This Instant Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice is a creamy, comforting one-pot meal made with tender chicken, parmesan cheese, and lemon-kissed rice. It comes together quickly in the pressure cooker for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup chopped white onion (approximately 1 medium onion)
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh garlic (approximately 4 large cloves)
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (rinsed)
  • 34 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from approximately 1 large lemon)
  • 1 cup shredded fresh parmesan (or grated, at room temperature)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely.
  2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring and sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the outside is no longer pink.
  4. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and lemon juice, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any stuck bits.
  5. Secure the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 8 minutes.
  6. When cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 2 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
  7. Open the lid and stir well. If excess liquid remains, use Sauté mode and stir until absorbed into the rice.
  8. Stir in parmesan, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and fully combined, then adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • For softer rice, use closer to 4 cups of chicken broth; for firmer rice, use 3 cups.
  • Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly into the dish.
  • Cut chicken into smaller pieces for faster sautéing and more even texture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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