If you are searching for a delightful and comforting meal that comes together quickly and packs a punch of Mediterranean flavor, this Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Tender chicken, fragrant rice infused with lemon and herbs, briny Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese create a harmony of taste and texture that feels both fresh and satisfying. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, letting you enjoy a wholesome Greek-inspired dish with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special weekend dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role—from the juicy chicken thighs that provide rich protein to the zesty lemon that brightens the whole dish. Together, these simple components create a vibrant and well-rounded meal.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts): Choose thighs for juiciness and flavor, or breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for depth of flavor.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Builds a savory base that softens and sweetens when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a little bite.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati rice): Absorbs all the lovely broth and seasonings for a fluffy, flavorful side.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and adds hearty umami notes.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: Bring a tangy, salty punch that balances the richness.
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creaminess and a sharp, salty finish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Packs a citrusy zing that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens flavors and adds fresh acidity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides that unmistakable Mediterranean herbaceous touch.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds subtle earthiness and complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note at the end.
How to Make Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in your Instant Pot on the “Sauté” mode until shimmering. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step locks in juiciness and creates a lovely golden crust that adds sumptuous flavor. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside while you move on.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Into the same pot, toss your chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions are translucent and everything smells incredible. These aromatics are the flavor foundation, coaxing a sweet and savory base that will mingle beautifully with the rice and spices.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Spices
Stir in the rice along with the lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything ensures that the rice is coated with the fragrant seasonings and garlic-infused oil, which helps maximize flavor absorption during cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Meal
Place the chicken thighs back on top of the rice, then pour in the chicken broth and scatter the sliced Kalamata olives over everything. It’s important that the chicken is partially submerged in the broth to cook evenly and keep moist. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Finish
After the cooking cycle ends, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before switching the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred or slice it as you prefer. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in the crumbled feta cheese to melt slightly into the warm rice, adding wonderful creaminess.
How to Serve Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley scattered on top adds brightness and a lovely color contrast. For an extra touch, a side of cool tzatziki sauce pairs perfectly, bringing a refreshing creamy tang that complements the lemony chicken and savory rice beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines wonderfully with simple Greek sides like crisp cucumber and tomato salad or roasted vegetables. A crusty bread or pita also works well to soak up the delicious juices and keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve the Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe in individual bowls topped with feta crumbles and olives, or pile it onto a platter surrounded by lemon wedges and fresh herbs. This makes for a delightful, family-style centerpiece that’s as inviting visually as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after resting, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this meal in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label them for easy identification. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming without drying out the chicken or rice.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe?
Yes, chicken breasts work just fine; just be mindful that they may cook slightly faster and can dry out if overcooked. Adjust timing accordingly or ensure an even layer on top of the rice for moist cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
While the Instant Pot speeds up cooking and melds flavors beautifully, you can adapt it for the stovetop by browning the chicken, sautéing the aromatics, then simmering the chicken and rice with broth covered until cooked through.
Can I substitute the Kalamata olives with another type?
Absolutely! Green olives or even capers can provide a similar briny kick. Just be cautious with salt levels as some olives are more salty than others.
How can I make the rice more fluffy?
Rinse the rice well before cooking to remove excess starch, and fluff gently with a fork after cooking to separate the grains without crushing them.
What can I add to make the dish spicier?
Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika along with the cumin and oregano to give it a warm, subtle heat that complements the lemony flavors.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about how this Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe comes together—effortless yet bursting with vibrant flavors that make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy taverna by the sea. Once you try it, I’m certain this will become a cherished staple on your dinner rotation. So grab your ingredients and Instant Pot, and get ready to delight your taste buds with a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Print
Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Greek
Description
This Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken thighs with aromatic rice infused with lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean spices. Enhanced by Kalamata olives and topped with tangy feta cheese, this easy one-pot meal brings the tastes of Greece to your dinner table in under an hour.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or basmati rice)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken: Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the chicken to build flavor.
- Add the rice and spices: Stir in the white rice, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the rice with the seasonings and garlic.
- Pressure cook the meal: Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture in the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and scatter the sliced Kalamata olives over the top, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged in the liquid to promote even cooking.
- Seal and cook: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing.’ Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ mode on high for 8 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to cook perfectly.
- Release pressure: When the cooking cycle completes, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes to finish cooking gently, then carefully switch the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
- Finish and serve: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred or slice them as desired. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese until evenly distributed.
- Garnish and enjoy: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately. Optionally, accompany with a side of refreshing tzatziki sauce for a complete, authentic Greek meal.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts as a leaner alternative, but be cautious to not overcook them in the Instant Pot.
- If you prefer more intense olive flavor, increase Kalamata olives by 1/4 cup.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the feta cheese or replace with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Rinsing the rice before cooking can help reduce stickiness and improve texture.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a Greek salad for a balanced meal.
- Tzatziki sauce enhances the freshness and creaminess when served alongside.
