Name: Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1 inch pieces); 2 14 oz diced, chili-ready tomatoes; 1 small onion (diced); 1 cup fresh or canned corn kernels; 1 cup Jasmine rice; 1 lime juice of; 1.5 tsp garlic salt; 1 tsp cumin; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup water; 1 cup shredded marbled cheddar; 1/3 cup chopped cilantro; 1 Sour cream; 1 Diced tomato; 1 Diced avocado; 1 chopped cilantro

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There’s something about a hearty dish like Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice that just hits the spot after a long day. Imagine coming home, the aroma of spices filling the air, and the promise of a warm, comforting meal waiting for you. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, often making its way into our weekly meal rotation. The best part? It all comes together in the Instant Pot, making it not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish brings a touch of warmth and comfort that makes everyone feel at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
27 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
12 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

What You’ll Enjoy About This Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice

Quick and Easy Cooking

One of the standout features of Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice is how quick and easy it is to prepare. With just a few ingredients and one pot, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. This is ideal for busy families or anyone who wants to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavorful and Satisfying

The combination of chicken, rice, and spices creates a symphony of flavors. Each bite is bursting with the zest of lime, the warmth of cumin, and the sweetness of corn. It’s a dish that truly satisfies the taste buds and leaves you feeling full and happy.

Versatile and Customizable

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want it spicier? Add some jalapeños. Prefer it vegetarian? Swap the chicken for beans. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for various dietary preferences.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another reason to love Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice is its meal prep potential. You can make a large batch and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, ensuring that you can enjoy this delicious meal multiple times without losing its quality.

A Family Favorite

This dish is also a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. The vibrant colors and inviting smell make it hard to resist. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce new flavors to kids while keeping things comforting and familiar.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice is no exception. The ingredients work in harmony to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Key players like chicken and Jasmine rice form the base, while spices and fresh ingredients like lime and cilantro elevate the dish with vibrant flavors.

1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces – Tender and juicy, these chicken thighs provide a rich flavor and texture that’s perfect for this dish.
2 (14 oz) cans diced, chili-ready tomatoes – These add a lovely acidity and a hint of heat, creating a balanced flavor profile.
1 small onion, diced – Adds a sweet and aromatic base, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
1 cup fresh or canned corn kernels – Sweet and crunchy, corn brings a delightful texture contrast to the dish.
1 cup Jasmine rice – This fragrant rice cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
1 lime, juice of – Fresh lime juice brightens up the entire dish, bringing a zesty kick that complements the other ingredients.
1 1/2 tsp garlic salt – Adds savory depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 tsp cumin – This warm spice adds a fragrant earthiness that’s quintessential in Mexican cuisine.
2 tbsp butter – A touch of butter adds richness and helps in sautéing the ingredients.
1 cup water – Essential for cooking the rice and creating the perfect texture.
1 cup shredded marbled cheddar – Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a touch of sharpness.
1/3 cup chopped cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color.
Sour cream – A creamy topping that adds richness and balances the spices.
Diced tomato – Fresh tomatoes add color and a juicy texture to the dish.
Diced avocado – Creamy avocado complements the flavors perfectly and adds a nice touch on top.
Chopped cilantro – For garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.

How to Assemble Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice

Creating Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple, detailed steps to ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time. The Instant Pot takes care of the hard work, so you can focus on enjoying the process.

Begin by combining the chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, onion, corn, Jasmine rice, lime juice, garlic salt, cumin, butter, and water in the pot of your pressure cooker. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed. You want to make sure that the rice is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Next, set your Instant Pot to the POULTRY setting for 12 minutes with the steam release valve in the closed position. This setting is perfect for cooking the chicken and rice together while ensuring that everything remains juicy and tender.
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure cooker naturally release pressure for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to finish cooking without becoming mushy.
After the pressure has been released, carefully open the lid and stir the mixture to fluff the rice. It should be perfectly cooked and have absorbed all the flavors from the other ingredients.
Now it’s time to add in the shredded marbled cheddar and chopped cilantro. Stir until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the dish. The cheese adds a wonderful creaminess that brings the whole dish together.
Serve the Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice in bowls, allowing everyone to add their own optional toppings. I love to add a dollop of sour cream, some diced tomatoes, and slices of avocado for a fresh contrast. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a pop of color.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking in batches: If you want to make a larger quantity, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
Monitoring the liquid: Ensure that there’s enough liquid for the rice to cook properly; insufficient liquid can lead to burning at the bottom of the pot.
Using different proteins: Feel free to experiment with different proteins, such as turkey or even tofu, for a vegetarian option.
Flavor enhancement: Adding a bay leaf or some other herbs can enhance the flavor profile even more.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Every cook loves a good tip or tweak to enhance their culinary creations. Here are some practical suggestions to elevate your Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice experience:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this dish! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with tortilla chips and salsa for a delightful crunch that complements the dish.
Variations: Mix in black beans or kidney beans for added protein and texture without changing the overall dish.
Spice it up: If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Cilantro lovers: Don’t skimp on cilantro! It adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the meal.

Accompaniments for Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice, the options are as vibrant as the dish itself. Here are some suggestions to elevate your meal:

Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful texture contrast!
Salsa: Fresh salsa or pico de gallo adds brightness and enhances the flavor.
Guacamole: A creamy dollop of guacamole takes everything up a notch!
Side Salads: Pair with a refreshing side salad to balance the meal with some greens.
Occasions: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual gatherings with friends.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, making it easy to enjoy again later.
Seasonal Pairings: In summer, serve with a side of grilled corn on the cob!

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this dish! Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure it cooks all the way through. Make sure to check the internal temperature to reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you don’t have Jasmine rice, you can use long-grain white rice or even brown rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary; brown rice usually requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.

To add more heat to your Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice, consider adding diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of cumin or add chili powder for extra flavor. Adjust to your taste!

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! All the ingredients used, including chicken, rice, and vegetables, are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully in one pot. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly lineup. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your home too!