Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, then look no further than this Instant Pot frozen chicken breast with rice recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it requires minimal effort and can be prepared in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast without compromising on flavor.
Using the Instant Pot allows you to cook frozen chicken breasts directly from the freezer, which means no need for defrosting. Combined with rice and a few seasonings, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 frozen chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by adding the olive oil to the Instant Pot. Set it to the sauté function and let it heat for about 2 minutes.
- Once hot, add the frozen chicken breasts to the pot. Season them with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chicken is submerged.
- Next, add the rice on top of the chicken, but do not stir. This helps to keep the rice from burning on the bottom.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to sealing.
- Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, carefully switch the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check that the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should be at least 165°F).
- Using two forks, shred the chicken directly in the pot or remove it and shred on a cutting board before returning it to the pot.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, mixing it with the chicken and broth.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Why Use an Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a game changer in the kitchen. It significantly reduces cooking time, especially for frozen meats like chicken. This appliance utilizes pressure cooking, which not only cooks food faster but also locks in moisture and flavors. When you cook frozen chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, they come out tender and juicy, making it an ideal choice for this recipe.
Variations and Add-ins
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are numerous ways to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:
Vegetable Additions
You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers directly into the pot. Just chop them up and add them with the rice. They will steam beautifully and add extra nutrition to your meal.
Spices and Seasonings
Feel free to experiment with different spices! Consider adding cumin, Italian seasoning, or even some chili powder for a kick. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference for a personalized touch.
Using Different Types of Rice
While long-grain white rice works perfectly in this recipe, you can substitute it with brown rice or jasmine rice. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as brown rice may require additional water and longer cooking times.
Meal Prep and Storage
This Instant Pot frozen chicken breast with rice recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and portion it out into individual containers. Store them in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later use. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken breasts. Reduce the cooking time to 8 minutes on high pressure for fresh chicken.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot frozen chicken breast with rice recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice, infused with savory flavors, is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you are preparing dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe delivers convenience without sacrificing taste. Give it a try, and enjoy the ease of cooking with your Instant Pot!
