Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

The Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a staple in my kitchen that never fails to deliver comfort and satisfaction. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a busy weekday evening, and I was scrambling to put something hearty on the table. After a long day, the last thing I wanted was a complicated recipe. This is where the magic of my Instant Pot saves the day! With just a few simple ingredients, I was able to whip up a creamy, cheesy delight that had everyone asking for seconds.

As the aroma filled my home, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and melted cheese creates a symphony of flavors that envelops you in warmth. It became a family favorite, and now I often serve it for casual gatherings or even during cozy nights in. The beauty of Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is its effortless preparation; you can set it, walk away, and return to a meal that feels like a warm hug.

With this recipe, there’s no need to worry about complicated steps or lengthy cooking times. It’s perfect for those chaotic evenings when you crave comfort food but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, the cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot! The simplicity of this dish, combined with its rich flavors, is why it holds a special place in my heart. So let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Shopping List

When it comes to making Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the best flavors. The key players here include tender chicken breasts that soak up the seasonings, fluffy brown rice that acts as the perfect base, and creamy cheddar cheese that ties everything together.

• 2 lb chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing protein and flavor.
• 1 cup brown rice, uncooked: Adds bulk and heartiness to the meal.
• 1 onion, chopped: Imparts a savory depth to the dish.
• 1 can diced tomatoes: Contributes moisture and acidity.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the rice and chicken.
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: The creamy element that melts beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds a subtle kick.
• 1 1/2 tsp cumin: Brings warmth and earthiness.
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides aromatic richness.
• Dash hot sauce or smoked paprika (optional): For those who like an extra bit of flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
• 1/3 cup cilantro, chopped: Adds freshness and brightness.

How to Assemble Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Assembling the Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is straightforward, and it’s a great way to bond with family or friends as you cook together. Here’s how to get started:

1. Begin by adding the measured brown rice, chicken broth, and garlic to the bottom of your Instant Pot. Stir to combine these foundational ingredients. This step is essential as it sets the stage for the flavors to meld beautifully.
2. Next, place the chicken breasts into the pot and season them well with salt and pepper. Ensuring ample seasoning on the chicken is key for developing rich flavors.
3. Top the chicken with the diced tomatoes, onion, chili powder, and cumin. These ingredients not only enhance the taste, but they also add texture and moisture to the dish. If you enjoy some heat, feel free to splash on some hot sauce or sprinkle smoked paprika.
4. Gently mix the spices into the tomatoes to distribute the flavors evenly. This will ensure that every bite is packed with deliciousness.
5. Close and lock the Instant Pot lid, turning the steam release valve to sealing. It’s essential to ensure a secure seal to achieve the proper cooking pressure.
6. Set your Instant Pot to pressure cook for 25 minutes. This is where the magic happens! As it cooks, you can take some time for yourself—read a book, help the kids with their homework, or simply relax.
7. After the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release by moving the steam release to venting. Be cautious of the hot steam!
8. Once the steam has fully released, carefully open the lid. You’ll be greeted with the inviting aroma of chicken and rice. Use tongs to remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
9. Add in the cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and creamy. This will elevate your dish to next-level deliciousness. Don’t forget to mix in the chopped cilantro for that fresh burst of flavor.
10. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings or sides. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Customization Ideas

There are countless ways to customize your Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Add Vegetables: Consider adding frozen peas, corn, or spinach for a nutritional boost.
• Spice it Up: For a kick, try using a spicier variety of cheddar cheese or adding jalapeños.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
• Different Cheeses: You can mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile—think gouda or pepper jack!
• Serving Suggestions: Serve it over a bed of greens for a light meal or alongside tortilla chips for a fun twist.
• Low-Carb Option: Substituting cauliflower rice for brown rice can create a low-carb version of this dish.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

How to Serve Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

When it comes to serving the Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice, there are several delightful ways to enjoy it:

• Plated Meal: Serve it warm on a plate with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor.
• Family Style: Present it in a large bowl at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a cozy, communal atmosphere.
• With Toppings: Offer toppings like salsa, sour cream, or avocado on the side to let guests customize their bowls.
• As Leftovers: Reheat any leftovers in the microwave or stovetop; it tastes just as good the next day!
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings with friends, or even as a comforting meal during chilly weather.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve alongside a fresh garden salad; in the winter, pair with warm bread or homemade rolls.
• Kids’ Favorite: This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser among kids, making it a great option for family dinners.
• Meal Prep: Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners that are ready to go!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting bowl of happiness that brings everyone together. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a dish worth trying. I encourage you to give it a go—your family will thank you, and you’ll likely find it becoming a regular in your meal rotation. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice is a creamy, cheesy delight that comes together in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is loaded with flavor and is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight and enjoy the warmth in every bite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lb chicken breasts
• 1 cup brown rice uncooked
• 1 onion chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 0.5 T chili powder
• 1.5 tsp cumin
• 2-3 garlic cloves minced
• Dash hot sauce or smoked paprika (optional)
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/3 cup cilantro chopped

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Instant Pot
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Add measured rice, chicken broth and garlic to the bottom of Instant Pot and stir to combine. Place chicken breasts in and season well with salt and pepper.
2. Top chicken with tomatoes, onion, chili powder, cumin and hot sauce if desired. Gently mix the spices into the tomatoes.
3. Close and lock Instant pot and turn steam release to sealing.
4. Turn on to pressure cooker and set for 25 minutes. That's it! Walk away, read a book, chase the kids, whatever!
5. It can take around 20 minutes for the pressure to build if using frozen chicken.
6. At the end of 25 minutes, do a quick release by moving the steam release to venting.
7. After steam has released completely, shred chicken (you can remove it with tongs to do this), add in cheese, and stir until melted. Top with lots of chopped cilantro.
8. Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Notes

• The recipe times are specific to brown rice: White rice cooks differently than brown rice so I don’t recommend using it.
• Balanced cooking: The brown rice is specifically to balance things out if you use frozen chicken.
• Feel free to add: I have added some diced green pepper and even some jalapeño to the recipe and we enjoyed both quite a bit.
• Read your pressure cooker instructions: Make sure you feel comfortable and confident using it. It’s a good idea to do a water test first if this is the first time.
• Get familiar: The manual will typically have you do a test run by boiling water in your Instant Pot. It is super helpful just to get to know the sounds and how to work it.

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Meet Sadie Mitchell

The Mood Catcher I’m our lead photographer, but my camera is just another tool in the kitchen, right next to my knife and whisk! I am obsessed with capturing the feeling of a meal the steam rising off a bowl or the golden light on a loaf of bread. I cook and style every shoot with the team, ensuring that the photo tells you exactly how cozy and delicious the food will taste.