The scent of sizzling chicken and savory soy sauce wafts through the air, delighting your senses and drawing you towards the kitchen. You can almost taste the golden, perfectly cooked grains of basmati rice, mingling with tender chicken pieces and vibrant vegetables, all brought together in a hearty embrace of flavor.
Jump to:
- <strong>Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch to Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice</strong>
- <strong>FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice</strong>
- What is Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
- How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
- Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
- How do I store leftovers of Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
- <strong>Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice</strong>
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight staple: Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice! This dish not only offers a burst of flavor but also makes weeknight dinners feel like an occasion. Ready in no time with minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for family gatherings or simply when you need comfort food that packs a punch.
Why You'll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
- This incredible Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds a rich flavor, making the dish more sumptuous.
2 eggs – Provides protein and helps bind the dish together.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps cook the chicken without sticking, adds heart-healthy fat.
2 medium chicken breasts – Cubed into small pieces, this lean protein is the main star of the dish.
2 cups basmati rice – A fragrant rice that cooks beautifully in the Instant Pot, soaking up all the flavors.
2⅓ cups chicken broth – Enhances flavor and provides moisture for cooking the rice.
1½ teaspoons garlic powder – Infuses the dish with a delightful aroma and flavor.
½ teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots – These colorful vegetables add nutrients and brighten up the dish.
4-5 tablespoons soy sauce – The umami-packed ingredient that ties the dish together.
1½ teaspoons sesame oil – Adds a nutty flavor and is perfect for finishing touches.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice:
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Set your Instant Pot to the ‘sauté’ setting. Once it’s hot, toss in your butter and let it melt blissfully. Add in the eggs and scramble them right in the pot until they’re cooked, then transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pot is still on the ‘sauté’ mode, drizzle in the olive oil. Add in the cubed chicken pieces and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Keep scraping the bottom of the pot to avoid that pesky burn warning.
Step 3: Combine Rice with Chicken
Stir in the basmati rice along with the chicken, giving it a good sauté for about 30-45 seconds. This will toast the rice a bit and enhance its flavor.
Step 4: Add the Flavor Surge
Pour in the chicken broth, sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and then close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to ‘sealing.’ Press the ‘manual’ button and let it cook for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Release and Stir
Once the timer goes off, let the Instant Pot do a natural release for 10 minutes. After that, carefully switch the valve to venting for a quick release. Remove the lid and stir in the thawed peas and carrots, soy sauce, and sesame oil until everything is combined deliciously.
Step 6: Final Assembly
Don’t forget the scrambled eggs! Fold them into the rice mixture with a gentle touch. Taste it, and feel free to add more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if it needs a little flavor boost. Remember to serve it hot and enjoy a bowlful of this delightful Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice!
With this recipe, you not only get a wholesome meal that’s ready in no time, but it also promises to become a cherished family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy gathering, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and smiles all around. Thank me later when you find yourself craving this culinary gem!
You Must Know About Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
- This showstopping Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the eggs for a fluffy texture, then cook the chicken until golden. Follow this by adding the rice, broth, and seasonings, ensuring a well-mixed ensemble of flavors that’s both delicious and efficient.
Add Your Touch to Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a twist, or add in bell peppers, green onions, or garlic for extra flavor. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, so let your imagination run wild!
Storing & Reheating Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
- This professional-quality Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sharing an unforgettable moment, my friends marveled at how something so simple could taste so good. The laughter and compliments around the table made all the chopping, stirring, and sautéing worthwhile, reminding me of why I love cooking.
FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
What is Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and delicious dish that combines tender pieces of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot. This one-pot meal simplifies traditional fried rice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving time on cleanup. With the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities, the rice is cooked just right, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or meal prep. It’s an easy way to transform pantry staples into a restaurant-quality meal, sure to impress family and friends alike.
How long does it take to make Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
Making Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is surprisingly fast! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients, followed by a cook time of around 25 minutes. The total time, including the natural release of pressure, amounts to approximately 35 minutes. This efficient cooking method means you can have a hearty and flavorful meal on the table in no time, perfect for those hustle-and-bustle evenings when you need comfort food fast!
Can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is its versatility. While the recipe calls for chicken, you can easily swap it out for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or green onions to enhance both flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or chili garlic, to put your unique spin on this classic dish!
How do I store leftovers of Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice?
Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice can be stored easily! Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of water can help restore moisture and flavor, ensuring that each bite remains delicious and enjoyable. This makes it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches!
Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
In summary, Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is an easy and delicious dish that elevates everyday ingredients into something spectacular. With its quick preparation and flexibility for modifications, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give this delightful dish a try? You won’t be disappointed!
Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set Instant Pot to 'sauté' setting. Once pot is hot, add butter and let melt. Add in eggs and scramble in the pot until cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- While still on 'sauté' mode, add olive oil to the bottom of pot. Add cubed chicken and cook for about 2-3 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pot to avoid a burn warning.
- Add rice with chicken and sauté for about 30-45 seconds.
- Add chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and then cover, place into lock position, and make sure the valve is in the 'sealing' position. Press the 'manual' button and cook for 3 minutes.
- When the timer goes off, let the pot do a natural release for 10 minutes. Then do a quick release by turning the valve to the venting position.
- Remove lid, stir in peas and carrots, soy sauce, and sesame oil until combined. Taste and add more soy sauce, salt, and/or pepper if needed. Stir in scrambled eggs. Serve immediately.
