Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice Recipe

Creamy, comforting, and bursting with savory flavor, Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is the ultimate one-pot weeknight dinner. Imagine tender chicken nestled in perfectly cooked rice, all wrapped in a rich garlicky, cheesy sauce—ready in a fraction of the time, thanks to your Instant Pot!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is how every ingredient pulls its weight—each one adds a layer of flavor, creaminess, or texture, turning simple chicken and rice into something truly special. Here’s why you don’t want to skip any element in your Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into strips, they stay juicy and tender while soaking up all the creamy, cheesy flavors.
• Butter: A must for sautéing and adding that rich, buttery undertone to the base of the sauce.
• Onion: Chopped and sautéed with the chicken for gentle sweetness and added depth.
• Water and heavy cream: The tag team that cooks the rice while giving the sauce its luscious, creamy body.
• Cream of chicken condensed soup: Streamlines the sauce with savory flavor and a perfectly velvety texture.
• Long grain rice (uncooked): Absorbs all the garlicky goodness and creamy sauce as it cooks.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: These pantry staples build layers of flavor quickly and evenly.
• Salt & pepper: The classic basics for seasoning every mouthwatering bite.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds that signature nutty, cheesy kick and helps thicken the sauce.
• Shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese: For added richness and a gooey, melty cheese finish.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the whole dish with a pop of freshness and color.
• Cream cheese (chunked and softened): The secret to an extra-silky, ultra-creamy sauce that clings to every grain of rice.

Variations

One of the best things about Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re working with what’s in your fridge or adapting for allergies, there’s lots of room for creativity!

• Swap the Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for even juicier results, or stir in cooked shrimp or rotisserie chicken at the end for a fun twist.
• Go Veggie: Toss in peas, spinach, or steamed broccoli before closing the lid for added color and nutrition—just stir in delicate greens at the end to keep them vibrant.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, or use low-fat cream cheese and cheese blends to cut down on richness without sacrificing flavor.
• Extra Flavor Punch: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper, a sprinkle of Italian herbs, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a new flavor dimension.

How to Make Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Sauté Chicken and Onion

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting. Add the butter and, once melted, toss in your chicken strips and chopped onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nearly cooked through and most of its pinkness is gone. This step builds a delicious flavor base for the whole dish.

Step 2: Add Liquids and Aromatics

Pour in the water, heavy cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup, giving everything a good stir. This combination will form that dreamy, creamy sauce as the dish cooks. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot—that’s where the deep flavor comes from!

Step 3: Add Rice and Seasonings

Sprinkle the uncooked long grain rice evenly across the surface (don’t just dump it in a pile), then add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Resist the urge to stir—just let the rice settle into the liquids. This helps prevent the dreaded “burn notice” and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Pressure Cook and Release

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, set the valve to “Sealing,” and pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes. Once the timer beeps, carefully perform a manual quick release to let out the steam. The aroma at this stage is absolutely irresistible!

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Finish

Once it’s safe to open the lid, gently stir in the softened cream cheese chunks until melted and smooth. Next, sprinkle in the Parmesan, cheddar (or Colby Jack), and fresh parsley. Pop the lid back on for a few minutes—this little rest helps the cheese melt and the sauce thicken up beautifully. Give it a final stir, then serve your Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice piping hot!

How to Serve Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra fresh parsley, a little extra shredded Parmesan, or even a twist of freshly cracked black pepper over each serving. These simple garnishes add a lovely color contrast and a pop of fresh, savory flavor to every bowl of Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice.

Side Dishes

This dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans. For added luxury, serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots to mop up every drop of the luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Spoon the hot cheesy chicken and rice into individual bowls for cozy comfort food vibes, or use a round mold to shape it on the plate for a more elegant presentation. Tuck in a lemon wedge or arrange with charred broccolini for a restaurant-worthy dinner at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, and the rice becomes even more infused with that rich, cheesy sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze individual portions in single-serve containers for up to 2 months. When freezing, let the dish cool completely and press a piece of parchment on the surface to help prevent freezer burn and maintain creaminess.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in the microwave or gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to bring the creaminess back to life. Stir well to ensure the sauce blends smoothly again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cozy, crowd-pleasing, and super easy, give Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice a try. It’s comfort food at its best—rich, creamy, and always a hit at our table. I hope your family loves it as much as mine does. Happy cooking!

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