Description
Savor Mediterranean magic with this Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice dish, blending zesty herbs and tender chicken. Fragrant oregano and lemon elevate classic comfort, inviting you to explore Greek culinary traditions in one satisfying, effortless meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin removed)
Grains and Liquids:
- 1 1/2 cups (360 milliliters) long-grain rice, rinsed
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) low-sodium chicken broth
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
Extras:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces/410 grams) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1/2 cup (75 grams) pitted Kalamata olives, halved
Instructions
- Create a robust seasoning blend using salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme, generously coating each chicken thigh.
- Activate the Instant Pot’s sauté function at medium-high heat, drizzle olive oil, and carefully brown chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer chicken to a temporary plate.
- In the same pot, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Introduce uncooked rice to the aromatic base, stirring thoroughly to ensure each grain is coated with flavorful oil.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, vibrant lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Gently combine all ingredients, creating a harmonious liquid base.
- Strategically place browned chicken thighs atop the rice mixture, ensuring they rest above the liquid layer.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid, select high-pressure cooking mode, and set the timer for precisely 10 minutes.
- After cooking completes, allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, followed by a quick manual release to eliminate remaining steam.
- Fold in briny Kalamata olives, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed before serving the aromatic one-pot meal.
Notes
- Test chicken doneness using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally for food safety.
- Select bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture retention during pressure cooking.
- Toast rice briefly before adding liquid to enhance nutty undertones and prevent clumping.
- Swap white rice with quinoa or brown rice for added nutritional value and different texture variations.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and customize seasoning to personal taste preferences.
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can brighten the dish’s flavor profile when sprinkled on top before serving.
- Dairy-free and gluten-free friendly recipe with simple ingredient substitutions available.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 395 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg