Instant Pot Salsa Chicken & Brown Rice – Gluten Free
Try this Instant Pot Salsa Chicken & Brown Rice – Gluten Free recipe.
Try this Instant Pot Salsa Chicken & Brown Rice – Gluten Free recipe.
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup brown rice
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 2 frozen chicken breasts cut into bite sized chunks
- 1 398 ml. can black beans drained & rinsed (i used 1.5 cups)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt & 1/4 tsp freshly ground pepper
- 1 cup broth
- !toppings:cilantro cheese, avocado, sour cream
- Carbohydrate 175.108440013547 g
- Cholesterol 273.76 mg
- Fat 25.9391641670129 g
- Fiber 13.1273919572488 g
- Protein 130.018882503333 g
- Saturated Fat 14.6423010833983 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (1296g)
- Sodium 2625.55866796513 mg
- Sugar 161.981048056299 g
- Trans Fat 2.86542566664502 g
- Calories 1463 calories
Step-by-step
- Set Instant Pot to saute and adjust it to low heat.
- Add oil and let it warm up until liquid.
- Add onions and saute, stirring periodically, until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Keep stirring as not to burn the garlic.
- Add in the chicken pieces, brown rice, beans and seasonings, and stir well.
- Add the salsa and broth and stir well again.
- Turn off the saute function.
- Lock the lid in place and press the manual button.
- Set the time for 18 minutes.
- Allow pressure to release naturally.
- Stir, then check the rice for doneness. Add another 2 minutes if necessary.
Instant Pot Salsa Chicken & Brown Rice: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Dinner needs to be quick, easy, and preferably something the whole family will enjoy. That's why my Instant Pot has become my absolute best friend. This Instant Pot Salsa Chicken and Brown Rice recipe is a perfect example of how I manage to get a delicious and healthy meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep work and utilizes readily available ingredients, making it perfect for those rushed weeknights.
The vibrant flavors of the salsa perfectly complement the tender chicken and fluffy brown rice. The combination of spices adds a subtle warmth without being overwhelmingly spicy, making it suitable for even the pickiest eaters. I often find myself doubling the recipe, knowing that leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it a great meal prep option as well. It's versatile too; I love experimenting with different salsas to keep things interesting. Sometimes I'll use a store-bought mild salsa, other times I'll whip up my own homemade version with fresh tomatoes and chilies, depending on what I have on hand and my mood. The possibilities are endless!
Beyond its convenience, this dish is incredibly healthy. Brown rice is a fantastic source of fiber, keeping me feeling full and energized. The chicken provides lean protein, crucial for maintaining energy levels throughout the day, and the black beans add a boost of both fiber and protein. And of course, the salsa is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. For added nutrition and flavor, I sometimes incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or corn. This is a simple dish that doesn't need a lot of bells and whistles to be a truly satisfying meal. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a flavourful, nutritious, and satisfying dinner even during the busiest weeknights. The kids love this and it's easy to clean up! It's a total win-win.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder dish, use less; for a spicier kick, add more.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute the chicken with other proteins like shredded pork or turkey.
- Rice Variations: While brown rice is my personal preference, you can use white rice or even quinoa for a different texture and nutritional profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Homemade Salsa: Use your favorite homemade salsa for a truly unique and flavorful dish.
- Toppings Galore: Get creative with your toppings! I love adding fresh cilantro, avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Make it a Meal Prep: Double the recipe and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. This reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
This recipe is a testament to how simple and delicious healthy eating can be. It's my go-to weeknight meal, and I know it will quickly become a favorite in your home too. So, ditch the takeout menus, and give this Instant Pot Salsa Chicken and Brown Rice a try. You won't regret it!
Enjoy!
