The Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole is a quick, flavorful meal that takes just 30 minutes to make. This comforting dish features tender chicken, a blend of wild rice, and a mix of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Everything is cooked together in chicken broth, creating a rich and satisfying flavor.
To make this casserole, simply layer the ingredients in your Instant Pot and cook them under pressure. After cooking, the chicken is shredded and mixed back into the rice for a perfect combination of textures and tastes.
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months.
Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal any time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Instant pot
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Breast or Thighs
- 1 cup Wild Rice blend
- 2 stalks Celery diced
- ½ Onion diced
- 2 Carrots peeled and chopped
- 1 ½ cups Broth Chicken or Vegetable
- 1 tsp Thyme
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Pepper
Instructions
- Start by chopping half a medium-sized onion, 2 stalks of celery, and peeling and chopping 2 carrots.
- Place the diced vegetables into the Instant Pot.
- Add 1 cup of Wild Rice Blend over the vegetables and place the chicken breasts on top.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Pour in the broth and place the lid on the Instant Pot. Close and lock the pressure valve.
- Set to Pressure Cook for 15 minutes, then allow a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release.
- Release any remaining pressure and carefully open the lid.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using forks; it should fall apart easily. Stir the shredded chicken into the cooked wild rice.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Layering Ingredients: Placing vegetables at the bottom creates pockets for liquid, preventing the burn notice.
- Chicken: Whether using breasts or thighs, ensure they’re boneless, skinless, and fat-free before placing them in the Instant Pot. The cooked chicken will shred easily and blend well with the rice.
- Additional Seasoning: Enhance flavors with thyme, or try Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder, along with salt and pepper for seasoning the chicken.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 134 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Protein | 12g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 41mg |
| Potassium | 224mg |
How Do I Prevent the Burn Notice On My Instant Pot?
To prevent the burn notice, follow the layering method. First, place the chopped vegetables (onions, celery, carrots) at the bottom of the Instant Pot. This creates pockets for the liquid and helps distribute the heat evenly.
Then, add the wild rice on top of the vegetables, and place the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Season the chicken and pour the broth over everything. This layering method helps to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom and triggering the burn notice.
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken or Add Extra Seasoning?
Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Just make sure to remove any bones, skin, and excess fat before placing the chicken in the Instant Pot. Once the chicken is cooked, it will easily shred and mix with the wild rice.
For additional seasoning, thyme adds a nice depth of flavor. You can also try adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder. Always remember to season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste of the casserole.