If you’re looking for a comforting yet impressive meal that comes together effortlessly, the Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender, flavorful chicken thighs nestled on a bed of fragrant basmati rice infused with fresh garlic, a medley of herbs, and just the right amount of spices. The magic of the Instant Pot locks in all those incredible flavors while keeping everything juicy and perfectly cooked. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to wow your guests, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and simplicity.

Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the vibrant flavors and satisfying texture that make Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice such a heartwarming meal.

Long Grain Basmati Rice: Its fluffy texture and fragrant aroma form the perfect base for the dish.
Chicken Stock: Adds depth and rich flavor to the rice while keeping it moist.
Oil and Butter: The combo creates the perfect fat balance for searing chicken and sautéing aromatics with a silky finish.
Onion: Builds sweetness and complexity when softened.
Minced Garlic: The star aroma that sings through the whole dish!
Mixed Herbs (Oregano, Thyme, Parsley): Fresh or dried, these herbs infuse the rice and chicken with an earthy, garden-fresh taste.
Chili Powder & Paprika: Bring warmth and a subtle smoky kick without overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight every ingredient.
Grated Parmesan: Adds a savory, umami-rich finish when sprinkled on top.
Chicken Thighs (With Bone): Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor thanks to the bone and marinade.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the entire dish with a fresh citrus edge.

How to Make Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Rice and Stock

Start by washing the basmati rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, which keeps your rice fluffy and separate after cooking. Soak it briefly to get the perfect texture. Meanwhile, warm up your chicken stock to speed along the cooking process and unlock even more flavor in your rice.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs

In a bowl, toss the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, chili powder, and lemon juice. This simple marinade allows the meat to absorb bright, zesty notes while balancing heat and earthiness, setting the stage for a tender, flavorful chicken.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken in the Instant Pot

Switch your Instant Pot to sauté mode, pour in oil, and sear the chicken thighs for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully golden brown and crispy. This step locks in juices and builds a savory crust that adds a ton of flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics and Spices

Remove the chicken and add butter to the pot. Sauté diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in minced garlic, fresh mixed herbs, paprika, and chili powder. This fragrant base is what makes the Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Add and Roast the Rice

Drain any excess liquid, then stir in the soaked rice, ensuring it’s coated well with the aromatic butter and spices. Gently roast the rice for 2-3 minutes if you want an extra layer of nutty flavor—though you can skip this to save time if you like.

Step 6: Add Stock and Layer Chicken

Pour in the warm chicken stock, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Then, carefully arrange the seared chicken thighs in a single layer on top of the rice, adding back any juices from resting. This layering allows the rice to soak up chicken flavor as it cooks.

Step 7: Pressure Cook and Rest

Seal your Instant Pot, select manual pressure mode, and set the timer for 8 minutes. Once it finishes, let the pressure release naturally for 8 to 10 minutes—this gentle release helps keep the chicken tender. Open the lid and let the dish rest for another 10 minutes to let flavors meld and the rice finish steaming perfectly.

Step 8: Fluff and Garnish

Use a slotted spoon or fork to gently separate the rice grains without breaking them up. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a delightful finish. This final touch adds freshness and a subtle cheesy depth that brings the dish fully to life.

How to Serve Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh parsley and Parmesan is simple but elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil for brightness and shine. Feel free to toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped green onions for extra texture and color.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs beautifully with vibrant green vegetables like steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a crisp garden salad. A side of garlic naan or crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up the delicious juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style meal, serve the chicken thighs whole on a platter surrounded by the fluffy rice garnished with herbs and cheese. Alternatively, try plating individual portions topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a creamy contrast or a spoonful of tangy chutney to add a sweet-spicy pop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken stays juicy, and the rice remains flavorful, making it the perfect ready-to-eat meal for busy days.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Portion the chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, which helps keep the texture intact without turning mushy.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken stock to keep the rice moist. Cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap to trap steam and warm everything evenly. If you have time, reheating in a covered skillet gives the best texture with slightly crisp edges.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

You can, but chicken thighs are preferable because they stay juicy and tender through pressure cooking. Breasts can dry out faster, so reduce the cooking time slightly if you swap in breasts.

Do I need to rinse and soak the rice?

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing stickiness. Soaking is optional but helps the grains cook more evenly and quickly, resulting in a light, fluffy texture.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

While the Instant Pot speeds up the cooking and locks in flavors, you can make this on the stovetop or in the oven, though cooking times will be longer and require more attention to moisture levels and heat control.

How spicy is this dish?

The chili powder adds a gentle warmth but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. Adjust the amount to suit your taste—reduce it for milder flavor or increase for a kick of heat.

Can I add vegetables to the Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice?

Absolutely! Adding chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers before pressure cooking can add color and nutrition. Just make sure not to overload the pot to maintain the correct cooking environment.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the full scoop on making the Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice, I hope you’ll give this recipe a spin. It’s a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked rice is truly irresistible — and once you try it, it might just become your go-to weeknight winner!