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Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and downright dreamy comfort meal, you’ve got to try this Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice recipe. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and wholesome veggies all made in one pot, this dish is the ultimate weeknight hero—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. You’ll love how simple, flavorful, and satisfying it is. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy.

Super creamy goodness: The rice and chicken get ultra-tender and flavorful.
Ready in under 40 minutes: Perfect for busy weeknights.
Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved!

Easily adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/3 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

How to Make Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Once hot, add the diced onion. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Add the chicken pieces, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside (it’s okay if it’s not fully cooked).

Step 2: Add Rice, Broth, and Veggies

Add the uncooked rice and mix well to coat with the flavors.
Pour in 1.5 cups chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom (this helps avoid the burn notice).

Stir in the frozen peas and carrots.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing’, and cook on HIGH pressure for 8 minutes.
Allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Make It Creamy and Serve

Open the lid and stir in 1/3 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar until everything is creamy and well-combined.
Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to thicken.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 23 minutes
Total time: 33 minutes

Notes for Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Success

For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth (learn how).
Don’t skip deglazing the pot after sautéing—this prevents the burn warning.

Swap in brown rice but increase cooking time to 20 minutes and add 1/2 cup extra broth (see how).

Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Variations

Mushroom & Spinach: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms and a handful of fresh spinach before pressure cooking.
Tex-Mex: Stir in 1/2 cup salsa and 1/2 teaspoon cumin; top with Monterey Jack cheese.

Lemon Herb: Add zest from 1 lemon and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning for a fresh twist.

Required Equipment for Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

6-quart Instant Pot or similar electric pressure cooker
Wooden spoon or spatula

Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife and cutting board

Storing Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for extra veggies.

Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Top with extra cheese and fresh herbs for an added flavor boost.

Pro Tips for the Creamiest Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

For best texture, use freshly shredded cheese as pre-shredded tends to clump (see why).

Letting the dish rest for 5 minutes after cooking allows the rice to finish absorbing liquid.
Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.

Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice FAQs

Can I use brown rice in this recipe?: Yes, but increase the cook time to 20 minutes and use 2 cups of broth.
Can I make Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice dairy-free?: Absolutely! Simply substitute heavy cream and cheese with your favorite unsweetened non-dairy alternatives.
Is this recipe gluten-free?: Yes, as long as all your broth and cheese choices are certified gluten-free.

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Dreamy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice