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–+ servings
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice for Effortless Family Dinners

A delightful fusion of spices and tender chicken, this Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Natural Release Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces Skinless Bone-in Chicken Thighs Can substitute with chicken legs.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds subtle heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Use smoked paprika for extra flavor.
For the Rice
  • 2 cups Uncooked Basmati Rice No soaking needed.
  • 3 cups Chicken Stock Vegetable or beef stock are alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Herb de Provence Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or white onion works well.
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Paste Fresh ginger can also be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Paste Minced fresh garlic is a good alternative.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Optional for non-dairy alternatives.
  • 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil Olive oil can be used as a substitute.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Chives Chopped green onions are a substitute.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside.
  2. Select the sauté setting on the Instant Pot, add butter and vegetable oil, and heat.
  3. Add chopped onion to the pot and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until soft.
  4. Stir in ginger and garlic paste, then brown chicken thighs in the pot for 3 minutes per side.
  5. Remove chicken and deglaze the pot with chicken stock, scraping any stuck bits.
  6. Stir in Basmati rice and additional chicken stock, then add Herb de Provence without stirring.
  7. Place the browned chicken on top of the rice, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
  8. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  9. Fluff the rice with a fork, mix in juices, and stir in chopped chives before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe promises rich flavors with minimal cleanup.

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