Easy Mexican Chicken and Rice Made in the Instant Pot®
A flavorful chicken and rice dish comes together quickly and easily in the Instant Pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with classic Mexican spices, it’s a comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.
Prep Time15 min
Cook Time25 min
Total Time40 min
Difficulty
Medium
Practical Cooking Tips
Use fresh lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
Make sure to sauté the onions and garlic before pressure cooking for extra depth.
Avoid lifting the lid right away after cooking to let the pressure release naturally for fluffier rice.
Ingredients
0/15
Why This Recipe Stands Out
A perfect blend of bold flavors and simple ingredients. It comes together quickly in one pot, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, the chicken stays tender and juicy while the rice absorbs all the delicious spices.
Step 1
Turn on your Instant Pot and choosing the sauté setting. Add a splash of oil, then toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Let them cook for a couple of minutes until they start to soften. Next, add the chicken along with cumin, cayenne, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and cook until the chicken is just starting to brown and the onions look translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 2
Once that’s ready, stir in the rice and let it toast a bit so it gets coated with all those flavors. Then add the black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salsa, and corn. Give everything a good mix, cancel the sauté mode, and seal the lid with the vent set to sealing. Set the pressure cooker to high and cook for 8 minutes.
Step 3
After it’s done cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 to 40 minutes—this helps everything finish cooking gently. When the pressure is fully released, open the lid and sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Close the lid again just long enough for the cheese to melt, around 3 minutes, then you’re ready to dig in!
87
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Serving Recommendations
Serve with a side of warm tortillas and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole. A fresh salad or steamed veggies also pair well to balance the meal. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños for a little extra kick.
How To Store Leftovers
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 water to keep the rice moist. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so it’s best to cook it separately or adjust the pressure cooking time significantly.
Do I need to thaw the chicken before cooking?
Yes, it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking in the Instant Pot.
Can I skip the cayenne pepper if I don’t like spicy food?
Absolutely, you can reduce or omit the cayenne to suit your spice preference.
Is it necessary to do a natural pressure release?
Yes, natural release helps the rice finish cooking gently and prevents splattering.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor; just cube them similarly.
What can I use if I don’t have salsa on hand?
You can substitute with extra diced tomatoes and a bit of tomato sauce or chili sauce.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom?
Make sure to sauté the ingredients first and deglaze the pot well before pressure cooking.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, feel free to add veggies like zucchini or carrots, but adjust cooking time if needed.
This simple and flavorful burger combines ground chicken with hearty chickpeas for a healthy twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknigh...