Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Rice
A super simple, easy, one pot meal! This Instant Pot chicken pesto rice is packed with flavor with bites of chicken, green beans, garlic and basil pesto. Perfect for busy weeknights.
A super simple, easy, one pot meal! This Instant Pot chicken pesto rice is packed with flavor with bites of chicken, green beans, garlic and basil pesto. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup basmati rice
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 scallions thinly sliced
- 10-15 green beans chopped (optional)
- 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, about 2, cut into bite size pieces (or
- 1 cup chicken stock (i used 33% reduced sodium)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt refer notes
- Carbohydrate 179.564583020833 g
- Cholesterol 131.5417873 mg
- Fat 16.2431315510613 g
- Fiber 9.02760829349359 g
- Protein 71.529554429 g
- Saturated Fat 3.01529595256636 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (500g)
- Sodium 170.326624416725 mg
- Sugar 170.53697472734 g
- Trans Fat 1.49667188974506 g
- Calories 1167 calories
Step-by-step
- Set Instant Pot to saute mode. When hot, add olive oil and then chopped green beans. Saute for about 2-3 minutes, until they look blistered. Transfer to a plate (This will contribute firmer, crunchy green beans. But, if you want soft cooked green beans then add skip this step and add in step-3)
- Now, (add a touch more oil if needed) add chicken pieces in a single layer (you might have to snuggle it in depending on the size of your Instant pot). Cook for about 2 minutes, stir in garlic, scallions and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.
- Add all remaining ingredients and green beans (if you like softer beans), stir very well to mix all ingredients thoroughly. Scrape sides, close Instant pot, lock lid, set valve to sealing, press cancel. (Refer notes below to see which method is right for you).
- Cooking Method-1: Select rice mode. (This is an automatic setting and mine took 12 minutes). When cook time is done, let the Instant pot be in warm mode for 5 minutes. When 5 minutes is done, turn valve to vent and let pressure release. Press cancel and open lid.
- Cooking Method-2: Cook for 3 minutes on manual mode. When cook time is done, let it be in warm mode for 10 minutes (for al dente rice) and 15 minutes (for more softer rice) When cooking time is done, turn valve to vent and let pressure release. Press cancel and open lid.
- Uncover, stir in green beans (if reserved) and serve instant pot chicken pesto rice hot. Great even at room temperature. Meal prep into lunch boxes.
Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Rice: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner is always a challenge. That's why I've become a huge fan of one-pot meals, especially those that can be whipped up quickly in my Instant Pot. This Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Rice recipe is a perfect example – a flavorful, satisfying meal ready in minutes, leaving me with more time to spend with my family instead of stuck in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s a complete protein-packed meal with the tender chicken, the satisfying rice, and the bright, vibrant pesto adding a burst of flavor. The green beans add a nice crunch and nutritional boost, but they’re entirely optional. I often leave them out if I’m short on time, or if my kids are being picky eaters. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze! One pot, one wash – perfect for a weeknight when the last thing I want to do is spend ages scrubbing dishes.
I often adapt this recipe based on what's in my fridge. Sometimes I add other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds a lovely salty tang. I've even been known to use leftover roasted chicken to make this an even quicker meal. The versatility of this recipe is what makes it a staple in my meal rotation. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and also easily scales up for larger gatherings or meal prepping for lunches throughout the week. Packing it into lunch boxes is incredibly convenient, ensuring I have a healthy and tasty meal ready to go for work.
Beyond the convenience, this recipe is incredibly satisfying. The pesto adds a rich depth of flavor, the chicken is juicy and tender, and the rice is perfectly cooked every time. It's a complete meal in itself, needing no sides or additions. It’s the type of meal that makes my family happy and leaves me feeling accomplished after a long day. And that, more than anything, is what matters most.
Tips and Variations:
- Chicken: Feel free to use chicken breasts instead of thighs, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Using pre-cooked chicken rotisserie chicken will save even more time.
- Vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli florets, peas, or even corn would be delicious additions.
- Rice: While basmati rice is my preferred choice, you can experiment with other types of rice, such as brown rice or Arborio rice. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Pesto: Use your favorite pesto recipe or store-bought pesto. A sun-dried tomato pesto would be a fantastic alternative.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit them altogether.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
This Instant Pot Chicken Pesto Rice isn't just a recipe; it's a solution to the daily dilemma of what's for dinner. It's a testament to the power of simplicity, and the joy of a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that brings the family together.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavourful and satisfying dinner, reach for your Instant Pot and give this recipe a try. You won't regret it. It's become a family favorite in my home, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too.
