As the weeknight rush sets in, it’s easy to fall into a culinary rut. But with the Instant Pot by your side, you can quickly and easily whip up a flavorful rice dish that will become a staple in your household. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering Instant Pot rice recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic combos like garlic butter and coconut lime to international inspirations such as Spanish tomato rice and saffron-infused basmati, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main course that can be customized with your favorite toppings, these Instant Pot rice recipes are sure to impress. So why wait? Get ready to elevate your meal prep game and add some excitement to your weeknight routine.
Garlic Butter Instant Pot Jasmine Rice
Elevate your meals with this flavorful and aromatic Garlic Butter Instant Pot Jasmine Rice recipe, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the jasmine rice and stir to coat with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Add the water and salt, then close the lid.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 4 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 14 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Yield: 4 servings
Coconut Lime Instant Pot Basmati Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic basmati rice recipe, infused with the sweetness of coconut and zing of lime. Perfect as a side dish or added to bowls and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add coconut oil, shredded coconut, and salt; stir to combine.
3. Add basmati rice and water; stir to coat the rice evenly.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in lime juice.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Spanish Rice with Tomatoes
This Instant Pot recipe combines the comforting flavors of Spanish rice with the sweetness of tomatoes, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With just 10 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
Fresh cilantro and lime juice add a burst of flavor to this simple and easy-to-make rice dish, perfect for accompanying your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. With just 5 minutes of hands-on time, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil; cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the water, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Mushroom and Wild Rice Pilaf
This Instant Pot recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious pilaf packed with sautéed mushrooms, wild rice, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the wild rice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the water and stir again.
6. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Release Method: Quick Release
Spicy Instant Pot Mexican Rice
Add a flavorful kick to your next meal with this simple and delicious Spicy Instant Pot Mexican Rice recipe. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for busy days when you need a quick and tasty side or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add rice and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Herb Rice
This recipe combines the creamy richness of rice with the brightness of lemon and herbs, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite meals. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and healthy side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Rice” button or “Manual” mode with 6 minutes of cooking time at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines chicken, rice, and vegetables in a rich and creamy sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add onion, garlic, and chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add rice, broth, vegetables, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and set timer to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (6 minutes cooking + 10 minutes natural release)
Instant Pot Turmeric Golden Rice
Elevate your meals with this vibrant and aromatic Turmeric Golden Rice recipe, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This easy-to-make dish is packed with nutritious turmeric and a hint of golden cumin, making it an excellent side dish or base for various meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water, turmeric, cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16-17 minutes
Instant Pot Pineapple Fried Rice
Transform your favorite takeout dish into a healthier and easier-to-make meal with this Instant Pot Pineapple Fried Rice recipe. This sweet and savory fusion is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables, pineapple, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set to 3 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Saffron Rice with Almonds
Elevate your mealtime with this aromatic and flavorful Saffron Instant Pot Rice, topped with toasted almonds for added crunch. This simple recipe yields a perfect side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the rice and cook until lightly toasted, stirring occasionally (about 2 minutes).
3. Add the water, soaked saffron, and salt. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Top with toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes, including natural pressure release.
Instant Pot Teriyaki Rice Bowl
This recipe brings together the flavors of Japan in a simple and satisfying dish. With the Instant Pot, you can cook perfect rice and tender chicken breasts with a rich teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add rice to the Instant Pot and stir to combine with the chicken mixture.
4. Add water and press the “Manual” button for 6-7 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Parmesan Risotto
Transform traditional risotto into a creamy, cheesy delight with this easy and speedy recipe for the Instant Pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition.
6. When all broth is absorbed, add the Parmesan cheese and butter. Stir until melted.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Vegetable Biryani
Transform ordinary vegetables into a flavorful biryani dish using your Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, with its easy-to-follow instructions and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and carrot; cook until vegetables are tender (5 minutes).
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and water to the pot. Stir well, ensuring rice is coated with liquid.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally (10 minutes) before opening the lid. Fluff biryani with a fork and garnish with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Brown Rice with Peas and Carrots
This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to cook brown rice with the added nutrients of peas and carrots. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the brown rice and stir to coat with the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the water and frozen peas and carrots. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Serve hot and enjoy!
Instant Pot Honey Soy Rice
Elevate your rice game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for any meal! This Honey Soy Rice is a simple and flavorful side dish that’s quick to prepare using your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, honey, soy sauce, and vegetable oil to the Instant Pot.
2. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
3. Press “rice” mode and cook for 6 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Cajun Dirty Rice
This classic Southern dish gets a boost from the Instant Pot, resulting in perfectly cooked rice and flavorful sausage. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the uncooked rice, water, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Rice
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot meal that combines the warmth of coconut milk with the spice of Indian-inspired curry powder, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. This recipe is a perfect blend of comfort food and exotic flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the water, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 16-17 minutes
Instant Pot Greek Lemon Rice
Add a burst of Mediterranean flavor to your meals with this easy-to-make Instant Pot Greek Lemon Rice recipe. This side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a base for bowls and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice, water, lemon juice, salt, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 6 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice
This comforting dish combines fluffy rice with steamed broccoli and a rich, cheesy sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup milk (or cream or half-and-half for an extra creamy sauce)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the broccoli, rice, and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Cook at high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Quick-release the pressure, then stir in half of the cheese (1/4 cup) and the milk.
6. Press the “Saute” button again and cook until the sauce has thickened and the rice is cooked through.
7. Stir in the remaining cheese (1/4 cup) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight meals with these 20 flavorful Instant Pot rice recipes! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Jasmine Rice and Spanish Rice with Tomatoes, to international flavors like Coconut Curry Rice and Saffron Rice with Almonds, there’s something for everyone. Discover easy and quick recipes like Easy Cilantro Lime Rice and Honey Soy Rice, or go bold with Spicy Mexican Rice and Cajun Dirty Rice. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a taste of adventure, these Instant Pot rice recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
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