Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

Making Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice has become one of my favorite go-to meals during busy weeknights. It all started when I was searching for a quick yet satisfying dish to whip up after a long day at work. I wanted something that would not only fill my belly but also bring a bit of joy to the table. One evening, as I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon some leftover rice, a few vegetables, and a couple of chicken breasts. It dawned on me that I could transform these humble ingredients into a delicious meal. With my trusty Instant Pot, I set out to create a flavorful dish that would become a family favorite.

As the pot worked its magic, the aroma of garlic and sautéed chicken filled the kitchen, and I couldn’t help but feel excited for dinner. It was a dish that not only nourished us but also brought us together, making it the perfect weeknight meal. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and packed with all those comforting flavors that we crave. The first bite of Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice took me back to my childhood, where simple dishes were often the most memorable. Now, I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the warmth and joy it brings to your table.

Recipe Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

The ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice are simple yet delicious, harmonizing perfectly to create a satisfying meal. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fluffy rice to the savory chicken and vibrant vegetables. This recipe highlights how basic ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

• 2 cups dry white rice: The foundation of fried rice, fluffy and perfect for soaking up flavors.
• 2 cups water: Essential for cooking the rice to perfection.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, adding richness to the dish.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides protein and a satisfying bite; make sure to cut it into small pieces for even cooking.
• 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced, infusing the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: Brightens the dish with color and nutrition.
• 2 large eggs: Lightly beaten, they add a wonderful texture and richness.
• 1½ tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Brings umami flavor and seasoning to the dish.
• 3 green onions: Thinly sliced, for garnish and fresh flavor.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
• sesame seeds: For garnish, adding a touch of crunch.

Recipe Steps for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

Cooking Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is not just about following steps; it’s about creating an experience in your kitchen! Let’s dive into the easy process of making this delicious dish. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying a delightful meal.

1. Start by rinsing the rice 2 to 3 times in a colander until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch, which helps the rice become fluffy. Next, place the rinsed rice, water, and kosher salt in the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Secure and seal the lid tightly.
2. Cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come up to pressure before the cooking time begins. After cooking, allow the rice to undergo a 10-minute natural release. This helps keep the grains fluffy. After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to let any remaining steam escape.
3. Once the steam has escaped, fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a bowl. This prevents it from becoming sticky. Now, rinse the inner pot to remove any stuck-on rice and dry it with a paper towel before returning it to the Instant Pot.
4. Press the Sauté button on the Instant Pot and add the vegetable oil. Heat the oil until it shimmers, then add the cut chicken and chopped onion. Sprinkle with salt and ground black pepper. Sauté for 6 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
5. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This step adds a beautiful aroma to your dish.
6. Next, stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes to warm them through. The colors will brighten, making the dish visually appealing.
7. Push everything to one side of the pot and add the beaten eggs to the other side. Using a rubber spatula, gently scramble the eggs until softly set, about 1 to 2 minutes. Once cooked, fold the scrambled eggs into the chicken and vegetable mixture until well combined.
8. Press Cancel on the Instant Pot. Now, add the fluffed rice, soy sauce, sliced green onions, and toasted sesame oil to the pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and season with additional salt or pepper as desired.
9. Finally, serve the Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice warm, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch. Enjoy this satisfying meal knowing that you’ve made something delicious!

Substitutions and Tips

When it comes to making Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice, there are plenty of options to personalize your dish. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience!

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Portion it into individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light salad. The crunch and freshness complement the meal well.
• Variations: Feel free to mix in other proteins like shrimp or tofu. You can also add different vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli.
• Cooking in batches: If you’re cooking for a larger crowd, you can easily double the recipe, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Accompaniments for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

Serving Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful experience as it opens up a world of pairing possibilities! Here are some ideas:

• With a side salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the fried rice.
• Perfect for lunch: This dish makes for a fantastic lunch option. Pack it in a container for a filling meal on the go.
• Family gatherings: Serve it at family gatherings or casual dinners. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
• Seasonal parties: This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual brunch or a summer picnic.
• Storage tips: Store leftovers in the fridge for quick meals throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is a fantastic recipe that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and savor the delicious results!

Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables in one delicious dish. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for busy families, bringing everyone together around the table. You'll love how quickly it comes together, making it the ideal choice for tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Asian

Servings 8 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups dry white rice
• 2 cups water
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt plus more, to taste
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into small pieces
• 1 cup chopped onion
• ground black pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 large eggs lightly beaten
• 1½ tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 3 green onions thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

 

• Start by rinsing the rice 2 to 3 times in a colander until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch, which helps the rice become fluffy. Next, place the rinsed rice, water, and kosher salt in the inner pot of the Instant Pot. Secure and seal the lid tightly.
• Cook on Manual High Pressure for 4 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come up to pressure before the cooking time begins. After cooking, allow the rice to undergo a 10-minute natural release. This helps keep the grains fluffy. After 10 minutes, carefully open the vent to let any remaining steam escape.
• Once the steam has escaped, fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a bowl. This prevents it from becoming sticky. Now, rinse the inner pot to remove any stuck-on rice and dry it with a paper towel before returning it to the Instant Pot.
• Press the Sauté button on the Instant Pot and add the vegetable oil. Heat the oil until it shimmers, then add the cut chicken and chopped onion. Sprinkle with salt and ground black pepper. Sauté for 6 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. This step adds a beautiful aroma to your dish.
• Next, stir in the frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 2 minutes to warm them through. The colors will brighten, making the dish visually appealing.
• Push everything to one side of the pot and add the beaten eggs to the other side. Using a rubber spatula, gently scramble the eggs until softly set, about 1 to 2 minutes. Once cooked, fold the scrambled eggs into the chicken and vegetable mixture until well combined.
• Press Cancel on the Instant Pot. Now, add the fluffed rice, soy sauce, sliced green onions, and toasted sesame oil to the pot. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and season with additional salt or pepper as desired.
• Finally, serve the Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice warm, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch. Enjoy this satisfying meal knowing that you’ve made something delicious!

Notes

Make sure you cut the chicken into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice recipe is delicious on its own or served as a side dish!

Keyword Easy Fried Rice Recipe, Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice, one pot chicken fried rice, quick chicken dinner

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Meet Sophia Hayes

I founded YumRecettes to turn my messy, joyful kitchen experiments into something I could share. While I steer the ship, I am first and foremost a cook. I love tackling every type of recipe, from grandmother’s old classics to modern fusion dishes. For me, the magic isn’t in a specific type of food, but in the act of preparing it. I’m usually the one urging the team to try that “one last idea” that ends up making the dish perfect.