Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice: A One-Pot Wonder

Introduction

For anyone craving a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal without a sink full of dirty dishes, Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice delivers pure comfort in less than an hour. The magic of the Instant Pot ensures perfectly tender chicken and fluffy, flavorful rice—all in one vessel. This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver, combining juicy chicken thighs with aromatic rice and vegetables for a crowd-pleasing family dinner that couldn’t be easier or more satisfying.

Why Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice Is a Must-Try

What truly sets this dish apart is the irresistible marriage of flavors: bone-in chicken thighs infuse the rice with rich savoriness, while a blend of spices and quick-cooking vegetables creates layers of taste in every bite. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans—your Instant Pot takes care of both the protein and the side, all at once. This recipe is a masterclass in convenience and flavor, with minimal cleanup and maximum reward.

Choosing and Prepping Ingredients

Fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs boost both color and nutrition. To expedite prep, a tool like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper makes dicing onions, carrots, and celery a breeze—saving you valuable time and ensuring even results. Opt for skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs to get the most flavor, and high-quality long grain rice for a fluffy texture that absorbs all those savory juices.

Making the Most of Your Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is key to this dish’s success. The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart delivers consistent, tender results—locking in moisture and melding flavors seamlessly. The pressure cooking function not only speeds things up, but also ensures that rice and chicken are cooked to perfection simultaneously.

Serving and Storing

Once cooked, this dish is ready to shine straight from the Instant Pot. For easy meal prep and leftovers, transfer individual servings into Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers. The airtight seals will keep your chicken and rice fresh for days, making it a great choice for lunches or busy weeknights.

Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve with a crisp salad for balance. Transport your meal to work or school easily, or serve family-style right at the table for ultimate comfort food vibes.

Nutrition and Balanced Meal Notes

Each serving offers protein-rich chicken thighs, vitamin-packed vegetables, and satisfying carbs from the rice. This one-pot wonder is naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for more or fewer servings depending on your family’s needs.

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice: One-Pot Comfort in Every Bite (Recap)

With its savory, tender chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, this recipe keeps both flavor and simplicity front and center. Ideal for busy nights, meal prep, or family gatherings, it’s no wonder this Instant Pot classic is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Instructions

1. Turn on the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker to “Sauté.” Add the olive oil. Once hot, sear chicken thighs (skin-side down) for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove chicken and set aside.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to quickly dice your vegetables for even cooking. Sauté for 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Pour in rinsed rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat the grains. Sprinkle in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits with a spatula. Nestle the chicken thighs (skin-side up) into the rice and vegetables. Lock lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 10 minutes.
5. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure. (Consult your Instant Pot instructions for details—use oven mitts like the KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitt Set if needed.)
6. Optional: Stir in frozen peas and let sit for 2–3 minutes with the lid on to steam.
7. Serve sprinkled with chopped parsley. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Enjoy the one-pot magic—and all the savory, satisfying flavors that come with it!