If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, one-pot meal solution, look no further than the Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Rice. It’s an absolute favorite in households that crave a spicy kick without the hassle of a complicated cooking process. This quick and easy meal combines the tangy flavor of buffalo chicken with the hearty comfort of rice, ensuring mealtime satisfaction for everyone at the table.
The first time I made this dish was during a busy weeknight when my family was craving something new and exciting. As a lover of spicy food, I decided to experiment with Buffalo Chicken, relying on my trusty Instant Pot to save time. It was an immediate hit—my kids loved the spice, and my husband was thrilled with how quickly dinner was ready. Now, this dish has become a staple in our home, perfect for those evenings when we’re all craving something a bit out of the ordinary.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a standout for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can whip up this meal in well under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked in one pot, you’ll have fewer dishes to wash, leaving more time to enjoy your evening.
- Great Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, flavorful buffalo sauce, and perfectly cooked rice creates a meal that bursts with spicy, tangy delight.
- Customizable Heat Levels: You can easily adjust the spice level by choosing your preferred buffalo sauce heat.
Ingredients Notes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish and some tips to get the most out of your ingredients:
Chicken: Both boneless chicken breasts and thighs work well. If you prefer darker meat, thighs will provide a richer flavor.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is the best option as it cooks evenly in the Instant Pot. If you’re using brown rice, adjust cooking times accordingly.
Buffalo Sauce: Choose your preferred brand and heat level. If you want a milder dish, go for a mild buffalo sauce.
Cheese: A generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese adds a creamy finish to the dish. Feel free to substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add diced onions and sauté until translucent. This helps build the foundational flavor of the dish.
Step 2
Add the chicken pieces and brown them slightly. You’re not looking to cook them through, just a light sear to lock in the juices.
Step 3
Switch off the sauté mode and pour in the buffalo sauce, ensuring all chicken pieces are well-coated. Then, add the rice and chicken broth, stirring everything together gently.
Step 4
Lock the lid in place, set the pressure valve to sealing position, and cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors.
Step 5
Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release by moving the valve to venting. Carefully open the lid, stir in the cheese until melted, and serve immediately for the best experience.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, place the cooled chicken and rice in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. If you wish to freeze, ensure the dish is completely cooled and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly heated.
Variations & Substitutions
This dish can easily be adapted for various dietary needs or flavor profiles:
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
- Spiciness Level: Adjust the heat by choosing either mild or extra hot buffalo sauce.
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice—just reduce the pressure cooking time to prevent overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Rice is versatile and can be served in numerous ways:
- Great for lunch or dinner, thanks to its fulfilling and robust flavors.
- Perfect for game day, offering a spicy treat that fans will love.
- Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can! Add the cooked chicken in step 3 after the buffalo sauce and rice. This will reduce overall cooking time and still infuse the dish with great flavor.
Is there an alternative to instant pot cooking? If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can make this dish on the stovetop. Use a large pot to sauté and cook, maintaining the same ingredient list and adding extra time to allow the rice to cook properly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! Prepare the rice, chicken, and sauce up to two days ahead and store separately. Mix them just before serving to keep the flavors fresh and distinct.
Whether you’re a fan of buffalo sauce or just looking for a new Instant Pot recipe to thrill your taste buds, this spicy chicken rice dish is sure to make its way to your weekly menu. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, it’s a guaranteed family favorite that combines convenience with incredible taste. So go ahead, let this recipe spice up your meal planning and delight everyone at your dinner table.
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast boneless and skinless
- 1 cup rice white or jasmine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Buffalo sauce your favorite brand
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Add chicken, rice, chicken broth, Buffalo sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the Instant Pot.
- Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Allow pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and shred the chicken with two forks. Stir everything together.
