Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with the mouthwatering "Instant Pot Chicken Little"! This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant mixed vegetables, all infused with aromatic spices that will have your taste buds dancing. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a wholesome meal that serves four, making it perfect for busy families or anyone craving comfort food without the hassle. Trust us, once you try this easy recipe, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by dicing chicken breast into uniform 1-inch cubes and measuring out all other ingredients.
- Season diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Place Instant Pot inner pot on base and select "Sauté" mode. Add a small amount of oil and lightly brown chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add chicken broth to the pot, scraping bottom to release any browned bits and prevent scorching.
- Pour in uncooked rice and spread evenly across the bottom of the pot.
- Top rice and chicken with mixed vegetables, spreading them in an even layer.
- Close Instant Pot lid, set valve to sealing position, and select "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" mode.
- Set cooking time to 12 minutes at high pressure for perfectly cooked chicken and rice.
- Once cooking cycle completes, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
- Open lid, fluff rice with a fork, and gently mix chicken and vegetables.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time during the week, you can dice the chicken and measure out your ingredients in advance. Store them in the fridge for a quick assembly when you’re ready to cook.
- Browning the Chicken: Don’t skip the sauté step! Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor and a delicious texture that enhances the overall dish.
- Layering is Key: When adding the rice and vegetables, make sure to spread them evenly. This ensures even cooking and prevents the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes helps retain moisture in the chicken and rice, making your dish even more succulent.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or sliced green onions before serving adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
