Description
This Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice recipe combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic spices, tangy lemon, Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese. Cooked together under pressure, the dish is flavorful and comforting with a Mediterranean flair, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Rice and Flavorings
- 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
Finishing
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: tzatziki sauce for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the chicken: Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the rice and spices: Stir in the rice, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything to coat the rice in the spices and garlic.
- Pressure cook the meal: Place the chicken thighs back into the Instant Pot on top of the rice. Add the chicken broth and Kalamata olives, ensuring the chicken is partially submerged in the broth.
- Cook under pressure: Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 8 minutes.
- Release pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
- Serve: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and shred or slice them. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Garnish and enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side of tzatziki sauce, if desired.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest according to your taste preference for acidity.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions.
- Make sure to rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming sticky.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or stovetop.
