Pressure cooker chicken and rice

This Pressure Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe features tender chicken thighs cooked with a blend of spices, rice, and topped with pine nuts and raisins. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, it combines bold flavors in a convenient cooking method.

14 Dec 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp ginger root
1 tsp cardamom
3 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp coriander leaves
1 tbsp bay leaf
3 tsp canned tomato paste
1 cup water
2 cups white rice
1/4 cup pine nuts
1/4 cup raisins
1 tomato
Pressure cooker chicken and rice

This delightful Pressure Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a flavorful and nutritious meal. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with a fragrant blend of spices, rice, and flavorful toppings like pine nuts and raisins. With the help of a pressure cooker, you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of black pepper. Set aside.
2. Sauté Ingredients:
- Turn on your pressure cooker and set it to the sauté function. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil and let it heat up.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Spices and Tomato Paste:
- Add the ground cardamom, ground cumin, and dried coriander leaves to the pressure cooker. Stir constantly for about 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Mix in the canned tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add Chicken:
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion and spice mixture. Sear the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned, but not fully cooked through.
5. Add Liquids and Enhancements:
- Pour in the 1 cup of water, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and release any brown bits.
- Add the bay leaf, pine nuts, raisins, and the finely chopped tomato.
6. Add Rice:
- Stir in the rinsed and drained white rice, making sure it is evenly distributed amongst the other ingredients.
7. Pressure Cooking:
- Close the pressure cooker lid and set the valve to the sealing position.
- Select the manual or pressure cook function and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
8. Release Pressure:
- Once the cooking time is completed, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure by turning the valve to the venting position. Remove the lid once it’s safe to do so.
9. Finish Up:
- Open the lid and remove the bay leaf. Fluff the rice with a fork and ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Add additional salt and pepper to taste if necessary.
10. Serve:
- Serve the chicken thighs with the flavorful rice, topped with extra chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious pressure cooker chicken and rice!

There you have it—a delicious and easy Pressure Cooker Chicken and Rice recipe that packs a punch with its combination of aromatic spices and tender chicken. This dish is perfect for any weeknight meal, providing both convenience and rich flavor in every bite. Enjoy your meal!', 'call_to_action': 'Try this recipe soon and share it with your friends and family. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own!

Pressure cooker chicken and rice FAQ:

What is the cooking time for chicken and rice in a pressure cooker?

The pressure cooking time for chicken and rice in this recipe is 10 minutes at high pressure. After that, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also be tender and no longer pink in the center.

Can I substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, about 22-25 minutes under pressure, so be sure to plan accordingly.

What is the best way to store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.

What can I use instead of pine nuts in this recipe?

If you don't have pine nuts, you can use chopped walnuts or almonds as a substitute. Alternatively, you can omit nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free dish.

Cooking Tips:

- Prep All Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are prepped and measured before starting to make the process more efficient.

- Brown the Chicken: Browning the chicken thighs in olive oil before pressure cooking adds depth of flavor to the dish.

- Deglaze the Pot: After sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices, deglaze the pot with a bit of water to lift the flavorful bits off the bottom.

- Release Pressure Safely: Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions on your pressure cooker for safely releasing the pressure when the cooking is done.

- Let it Sit: Once the pressure has been released and the lid is open, let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add or substitute different toppings like nuts, dried fruits, or fresh herbs to suit your taste.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 580kcal
Protein 18g
Carbohydrates 90g
Fiber 3.52g
Sugar 10g
Fat 20g

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