There is nothing quite as satisfying as a comforting bowl of homemade fried rice, and this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is my go-to when I want that perfect balance of savory chicken, fluffy rice, and freshly scrambled eggs without the fuss. Using the Instant Pot simplifies the process, infusing every grain with flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. It’s a weekday dinner hero that transforms simple pantry staples into a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity: each ingredient has a purpose, whether it’s boosting flavor, adding texture, or contributing a pop of color. From aromatic garlic to tender chicken and crisp peas, these basics come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
- Vegetable oil: Provides a neutral base for sautéing without overpowering the dish.
- Eggs: Scrambled to create fluffy, protein-packed bites that bring richness.
- Garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of warmth to every spoonful.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice and chicken with savory moisture and flavor.
- Chicken breast, diced: The main protein of the dish, tender and juicy when cooked perfectly.
- Carrot, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and a slight crunch for texture contrast.
- Jasmine rice, rinsed: Fragrant and fluffy, it serves as the perfect canvas to soak up all the flavors.
- Frozen green peas: Add vibrant color and a hint of sweetness to brighten the dish.
- Soy sauce: Brings that classic salty umami note essential for fried rice.
- Sesame oil: A little drizzle imparts a toasty, nutty finish that ties everything together.
- Green onions (optional, for garnish): Fresh and sharp, they add a refreshing zing at the end.
- Hot sauce (optional, for garnish): For those who like a little kick with their meal.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the Sauté function—this step gets the base of your dish going. Add vegetable oil and scramble the eggs in the pot until they are cooked through but still soft and fluffy. Then transfer them to a separate dish to keep warm while you make the rest of the meal. These eggs create those beloved tender pockets of protein you’ll find in every bite of fried rice.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
In the same pot, add a little more vegetable oil, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it just until you catch the fragrant aroma—usually about one minute. This quick step is crucial because it releases the garlic’s full flavor without burning, setting a beautifully scented foundation for the dish.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Next, pour a splash of the chicken broth into the pot to deglaze it. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These little caramelized bits add tons of rich flavor, so don’t skip this step! It also helps prevent any burn notices during pressure cooking.
Step 4: Layer Ingredients
Now comes the layering, which is key in this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe. Add the remaining chicken broth first, followed by the diced chicken breasts and the carrots. Then top everything off with your rinsed jasmine rice—press it gently down to fully submerge in the liquid, but be careful not to stir. This layering creates perfect cooking conditions and prevents the rice from sticking or clumping.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and make sure the vent is set to sealing. Set it to high pressure for exactly three minutes. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for ten minutes—this gentle release lets the rice finish steaming perfectly. After that, carefully quick release any remaining pressure to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
With the pressure released, remove the lid and stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, frozen peas, and those beautifully scrambled eggs from earlier. Replace the lid loosely (askew) and let the rice sit for a few minutes. This warming step lets the peas cook just right and allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Finally, garnish as you like with chopped green onions and a dash of hot sauce for a little extra excitement if you’re feeling bold.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions provide a crisp, slightly spicy finish that brightens the whole dish. Hot sauce is a fantastic option, too, especially if you like to add a bit of heat with every bite. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can be a lovely crunchy touch, elevating the dish visually and texturally.
Side Dishes
This fried rice shines on its own, but you can round out the meal with simple sides like steamed or roasted vegetables, a light Asian cucumber salad, or even crispy spring rolls. Pair it with a clear soup or miso soup for a more elaborate dinner that still feels quick and approachable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken fried rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or pineapple halves for a tropical flair. Or create a fried rice bowl topped with a fried egg or pickled veggies for an Instagram-worthy meal that tastes even better than it looks. Presentation is a great way to excite family and guests alike!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The rice maintains its flavor well when stored properly, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners. Just be sure to cool it promptly to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze this chicken fried rice for up to one month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. While freezing can slightly soften the texture of the vegetables, the dish will still taste delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat adding a splash of water or broth to revive the rice’s moisture. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Adding a drizzle of soy sauce or sesame oil when reheating helps refresh the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice in this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe?
Brown rice has a different cooking time and texture, so it is not recommended to substitute it directly in this recipe without adjusting the pressure cooking time significantly. For best results, stick to jasmine or white rice or cook the brown rice separately before combining with other ingredients.
What cut of chicken works best here?
Chicken breast is ideal because it cooks quickly and stays tender using this method. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful option—just make sure to dice them evenly and watch the texture after cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and eggs, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or tofu to keep it hearty and satisfying. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Why do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?
Rinsing jasmine rice removes excess surface starch, preventing the rice from becoming too sticky or gummy. This step ensures that your fried rice has that perfect fluffy texture and cooks evenly under pressure.
Is it necessary to let the pressure release naturally?
Yes, allowing a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes lets the rice finish cooking gently, resulting in better texture and preventing it from becoming mushy. Quick releasing pressure too soon can sometimes cause uneven cooking.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is one of those magic dishes that combines ease and flavor so effortlessly, it quickly becomes a household favorite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself after a long day, giving this recipe a try promises a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal hassle. Dive in, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, and scrambled eggs, all cooked effortlessly using the Instant Pot. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers the classic fried rice taste with less oil and fuss.
Ingredients
Protein and Eggs
- 2 eggs
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
Vegetables
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 2 green onions (optional, for garnish)
Pantry
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Hot sauce (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Scramble the Eggs: Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function. Add vegetable oil and scramble the eggs until cooked through. Once done, remove the eggs and set them aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, add a bit more vegetable oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to prevent burning during pressure cooking.
- Layer Ingredients: Add the remaining chicken broth, diced chicken breast, diced carrots, and rinsed jasmine rice into the pot. Press the rice down gently to submerge it under the liquid but do not stir.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Combine and Serve: Open the lid and stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, frozen green peas, and the previously scrambled eggs. Replace the lid slightly ajar and let the mixture sit for a few minutes to warm the peas and meld flavors. Garnish with chopped green onions and hot sauce if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Rinsing the jasmine rice removes excess starch, preventing the fried rice from becoming too sticky.
- Use fresh or frozen peas based on availability; frozen peas should be added just before finishing to keep their color and texture.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken breast with thigh for a juicier texture.
- You can adjust soy sauce quantity for preferred saltiness and use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of grated ginger when sautéing garlic.
- Make sure to deglaze the Instant Pot thoroughly to avoid the burn warning during pressure cooking.
