Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole Easy Recipe
Looking for a quick and tasty meal? My Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole is the answer! It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Using simple ingredients, this one-pot dish combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and hearty vegetables. Whether you’re a busy parent or just want a delicious dinner, you’ll love how fast and satisfying this recipe is. Join me as we dive into the steps to create this comfort food classic!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need for the Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole. Gather these ingredients before you start.
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
– Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Using fresh and quality ingredients makes all the difference. The chicken adds protein, while the rice soaks up all the flavors. The mixed vegetables boost nutrition and color. The cream of mushroom soup brings creaminess, while spices elevate the taste.
For a fun twist, try adding your favorite herbs. You can mix and match veggies too. Just remember to keep the ratios right. You want a creamy and hearty casserole that everyone will love.
For the full recipe and step-by-step details, check out the link.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
Start by turning your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add one tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in one diced onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté these for about three to four minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent. This step adds a rich flavor to your dish. Transparent onions release their sweetness, making the casserole taste better.
Cook Chicken
Next, add one pound of bite-sized, boneless chicken pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, one teaspoon of paprika, and one teaspoon of dried thyme. Cook for about five minutes. You want the chicken to have a light brown color on the outside. This browning adds depth and flavor to your casserole.
Add Ingredients
Once the chicken is cooked, pour in two cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Make sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. This step is crucial for adding flavor. Now, add one cup of rinsed long-grain white rice and one cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Stir everything together to mix the flavors well.
Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal the pressure valve. Set it to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for ten minutes. This setting cooks everything quickly. After cooking, let it sit for five minutes for a natural pressure release. Then, do a quick release for any remaining pressure. This method ensures your meal is tender and juicy.
Add Creaminess
After releasing pressure, open the lid and stir in one cup of cream of mushroom soup. This will make your casserole creamy and rich. If you like cheese, fold in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese for even more creaminess. Mix until everything is well combined.
Serve
Spoon the casserole into bowls. For a nice touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle more cheese on top if you want. Serve this dish warm for a comforting meal.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To avoid sticking to the pot, use enough olive oil when sautéing. Coat the bottom well. When cooking rice, rinse it first. This removes excess starch and helps keep it fluffy. I find that using long-grain white rice yields the best results. For perfect rice texture, check your liquid ratio. You need a 1:2 ratio of rice to broth. This ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors.
Flavor Enhancements
To elevate the dish, try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. These herbs add a bright, aromatic touch. You can also sprinkle in garlic powder for more depth. When it comes to soup, homemade cream of mushroom soup adds great flavor. Store-bought is fine if you’re short on time. Just check for low sodium options to keep the dish healthy.
Cooking Time Adjustments
If you make a larger batch, increase the cooking time to 12 minutes. Always check the rice for doneness after pressure cooking. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time to 22 minutes. Brown rice takes longer to cook due to its outer bran layer. Adjust your liquid to 2½ cups for brown rice to ensure it cooks properly. For different rice types, always refer to the package instructions for best results.
Variations
Protein Alternatives
You can swap chicken for pork or tofu. Each protein brings its own taste. Pork can add a richer flavor, while tofu is great for a plant-based option. When using pork, cook for about 15 minutes under pressure. If you choose tofu, add it at the end to keep it soft. Adjusting cooking times is key for the best results.
Rice Alternatives
Long-grain white rice is classic, but you can try brown rice or quinoa. Brown rice needs more liquid, so use 2 1/4 cups broth instead of 2 cups. Quinoa cooks faster, so only 1 cup of broth is needed. Always rinse grains to remove excess starch for better texture.
Vegetable Options
Mix in seasonal veggies for extra color and flavor. You can use broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. These veggies add nutrients and crunch. Fresh herbs like spinach or kale can also work well. Just remember to add them towards the end for best results.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
Store your casserole in the fridge for up to four days. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work best. This will help prevent any odors from mixing with your food.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
Meal Prep Ideas
This dish is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch on the weekend. Divide it into portions for quick lunches or dinners. Pair it with a side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal. Try serving it with a simple green salad or roasted broccoli. These sides add freshness and balance to the creamy casserole.
FAQs
Can I make Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. To do this, cook the casserole and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore moisture. You can also freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to three months in the freezer.
How do I adjust this recipe for different serving sizes?
To change the serving size, you can double or halve the ingredients. Keep the same cooking time. However, if you make a larger batch, keep the pressure cooking time the same. The Instant Pot works well because it cooks evenly. For smaller portions, you can still use the same time. Just make sure the rice is covered with liquid.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
If you lack cream of mushroom soup, you can use several options. Canned cream of chicken soup works well as a substitute. You can also use a homemade version. Mix one cup of milk, one tablespoon of flour, and some sautéed mushrooms. Blend until smooth and creamy. You can find many recipes online for homemade soup. These alternatives will still give your casserole that creamy texture.
This article shared a simple way to make a tasty chicken and rice casserole in the Instant Pot. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and storage tips. The dish is easy to tweak with different proteins and grains. My final thought is: this recipe offers comfort and flexibility for every home cook. Enjoy making it your own!
