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Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe

Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 11 reviews

This Instant Pot Garlic Herb Chicken and Rice is a wholesome, flavorful one-pot meal featuring tender chicken thighs seasoned with herbs and spices, served over perfectly cooked basmati rice. The recipe combines savory garlic, mixed herbs, and a hint of chili for a comforting yet vibrant dish that cooks quickly and easily in the Instant Pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 Cup Long Grain Basmati Rice
  • 5–6 Chicken Thighs (With Bone)
  • 2 Cup Chicken Stock
  • 1 tbsp Oil
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1 large Onion (chopped)
  • 1.5 tbsp Garlic (Minced)
  • 1.5 tbsp Mixed Herb (Oregano, Thyme, Parsley)
  • 1 tbsp Paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan to serve

Seasoning for Chicken

  • 1/2 tsp Chili Powder (adjust as per taste)
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper

Additional Seasoning for Rice

  • 1/2 tsp Chili Powder (adjust as per taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Rice: Measure 1.5 cups of basmati rice and wash it thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in enough water for 15-20 minutes, but do not exceed this time to prevent sogginess.
  2. Warm Stock: Measure 2 cups of chicken stock and keep it warm to help speed up the cooking process when added to the rice.
  3. Season Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1/2 tsp chili powder, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Mix well to coat evenly and set aside while preparing other ingredients.
  4. Preheat Instant Pot: Turn on the Instant Pot and select ‘Sauté’ mode to preheat the pot for searing the chicken.
  5. Sear Chicken: Once the pot is hot, add 1 tbsp oil. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pot and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn light golden brown and crispy. Remove and set aside.
  6. Sauté Aromatics: Add 2 tbsp butter to the pot, then add chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add mixed herbs, 1 tbsp paprika, and 1/2 tsp chili powder; mix well to combine all flavors.
  8. Drain Rice and Add: Drain the soaked rice to remove excess water and add it to the pot. Gently stir for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice; this step is optional but adds a nutty flavor.
  9. Add Stock and Season: Pour the warm chicken stock into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Arrange Chicken: Place the seared chicken thighs in a single layer on top of the rice. Add any extra juices that might have accumulated from the resting chicken.
  11. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and switch the Instant Pot to ‘Manual’ mode. Set the timer for 8 minutes to cook the chicken and rice under pressure.
  12. Release Pressure: When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 8-10 minutes to ensure the chicken stays tender. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure manually using the back of a spoon.
  13. Rest: Open the lid once the pressure is fully released and let the dish rest for an additional 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  14. Fluff Rice: Use a slotted spoon or fork to gently separate the rice grains without breaking them up.
  15. Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for added flavor and garnish.

Notes

  • Do not soak the rice for more than 20 minutes to avoid mushy texture.
  • Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful results.
  • Adjust the chili powder quantity according to your preferred spice level.
  • To keep the dish gluten-free, ensure the chicken stock does not contain any gluten additives.
  • Optional: Toasting the rice before adding stock enhances the flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
  • Allow natural pressure release to avoid drying out the chicken.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot chicken and rice, garlic herb chicken, basmati rice recipe, one pot chicken meal, easy Instant Pot dinner, chicken thighs recipe

Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/instant-pot-garlic-herb-chicken-and-rice-recipe/