Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice – Quick, Easy & Flavorful One-Pot Meal

There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of chicken fried rice, and when you can make it in the Instant Pot with minimal effort, it becomes a go-to meal for busy nights. This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is a quick, easy, and flavorful one-pot dish that brings together all the best elements of traditional fried rice without the need for a wok or leftover rice.

This recipe features tender chunks of chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, scrambled eggs, and crisp vegetables, all coated in a savory mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic. The best part? The Instant Pot takes care of everything—from cooking the rice perfectly to infusing it with delicious flavors. There’s no need to cook rice separately or worry about it being mushy.

Not only is this dish delicious and satisfying, but it’s also versatile and budget-friendly. You can customize it with different proteins, swap in your favorite vegetables, or even make it spicy. Plus, it’s healthier than takeout because you control the ingredients and sodium levels.

If you love easy, flavorful meals with minimal cleanup, this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is about to become your new favorite. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how you can make it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is more than just a quick meal—it’s a game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food, meal prepping, or just a good bowl of homemade fried rice. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:

• Easy and Convenient – Everything cooks in the Instant Pot, so there’s minimal cleanup. No need to dirty multiple pans or pre-cook the rice.
• One-Pot Meal – Even the egg is scrambled in the Instant Pot, meaning fewer dishes to wash.
• Quick Cooking Time – Ready in 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• No Leftover Rice Needed – Traditional fried rice recipes require day-old rice, but this version cooks fresh rice perfectly in the Instant Pot.

This dish is perfect for families, meal preppers, and anyone craving takeout flavors without the hassle. Now, let’s talk about the health benefits of this delicious meal.

Health Benefits

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients that support a balanced diet. Let’s break down the health benefits of the key ingredients:

1. Chicken – A Lean Protein Source

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscles. It’s also rich in B vitamins that support energy production and metabolism. Using boneless, skinless chicken breast keeps this dish lower in fat while still providing essential amino acids.

2. Jasmine Rice – A Source of Energy

Rice is a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing a steady release of energy throughout the day. Jasmine rice, in particular, has a light, fluffy texture that works perfectly in fried rice. While white rice is commonly used, you can substitute brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.

3. Vegetables – Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants

This recipe includes carrots and peas, which provide vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. These nutrients help support immune function, digestion, and overall health. You can also add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for even more nutrients.

4. Eggs – A Nutrient-Dense Protein

Eggs add a boost of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B12 and choline. They help create that authentic fried rice texture while making the dish more satisfying and nutritious.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings

• Makes 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 489 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 9g
• Sodium: 612mg
• Fiber: 3g

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice:

Main Ingredients

• 2 tsp vegetable oil, divided
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1¼ cup chicken broth
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into ½-inch cubes
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1½ cups jasmine rice, rinsed thoroughly
• ½ cup frozen peas, thawed
• 3-4 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Garnishes (Optional but Recommended)

• Sliced green onions – for a fresh, slightly spicy finish
• Hot sauce – for a bit of heat.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is simple and straightforward. The Instant Pot does most of the work, so you get a flavor-packed meal with minimal effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve the perfect texture and taste every time.

Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prep all your ingredients:

• Dice the chicken into ½-inch cubes so it cooks evenly.
• Mince the garlic finely for the best flavor.
• Peel and dice the carrots into small, uniform pieces.
• Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming too sticky or mushy.

Scramble the Eggs

1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the Sauté mode.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and let it heat up for 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the whisked eggs and let them cook undisturbed for about 10 seconds.
4. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir and break the eggs into soft curds.
5. Once fully cooked, remove the eggs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.

Sauté the Garlic and Deglaze the Pot

1. Add the remaining teaspoon of vegetable oil to the Instant Pot.
2. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
3. Deglaze the pot by adding a splash of chicken broth, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. This step prevents the burn warning from triggering when pressure cooking.

Layer the Ingredients (Do Not Stir!)

1. Pour in the remaining chicken broth.
2. Evenly layer the diced chicken over the broth.
3. Spread the diced carrots over the chicken.
4. Gently add the rinsed jasmine rice, spreading it evenly across the top. Do not stir—keeping the layers separate helps prevent the rice from sticking and ensures even cooking.
5. Press the rice down gently with a spoon so it is fully submerged in the broth.

Pressure Cook the Rice and Chicken

1. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
2. Select Manual (Pressure Cook) mode and set it to High Pressure for 3 minutes.
3. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. After that, do a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.”

Stir in Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Peas, and Eggs

1. Open the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork.
2. Pour in 3-4 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, stirring gently to distribute the flavors.
3. Add the thawed peas and cooked scrambled eggs, mixing them in lightly.
4. Close the lid (without sealing) and let everything sit for about 2 minutes. This allows the peas to warm through and the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Garnish

1. Scoop the fried rice into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions for freshness.
2. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle on hot sauce or chili flakes.
3. Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice, served hot and fresh!

How to Serve

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with other dishes for an even more satisfying experience. Here are a few delicious serving ideas:

• As a standalone meal – This dish has protein, carbs, and veggies all in one bowl, making it a perfect complete meal.
• With a side of soup – A bowl of miso soup or clear chicken broth makes a comforting addition.
• With extra protein – Serve alongside grilled chicken skewers, shrimp, or tofu for an added protein boost.
• With a fresh salad – A light cucumber salad or Asian slaw balances the richness of the fried rice.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance the flavors of your Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice, here are some delicious pairings:

Side Dish Pairings

• Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables – A mix of bok choy, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and crunch.
• Spring Rolls or Dumplings – A crispy side dish like vegetable spring rolls or steamed dumplings pairs wonderfully.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Green Tea – Light and refreshing, it helps balance the savory flavors.
• Lemon Cucumber Water – A simple and refreshing drink that cleanses the palate.
• Homemade Lemonade – A slightly sweet, tangy option that pairs well with soy sauce-based dishes.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep it separate from additional sauces or garnishes to maintain its best texture.

Freezing (Not Recommended)

• Freezing fried rice can change its texture, making it mushy when reheated. If you must freeze it:
  • Place cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • Store for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Microwave Method: Place fried rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop Method: Heat a small amount of oil in a pan, add the fried rice, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Rinsing the Rice – Skipping this step can make your rice sticky and clumpy. Always rinse until the water runs clear.
2. Stirring Before Pressure Cooking – Stirring before cooking can cause the rice to absorb too much liquid and become mushy.
3. Skipping the Deglazing Step – Leaving bits of food stuck to the pot can trigger a burn warning. Always deglaze after sautéing.

Pro Tips

• Use Fresh Garlic – Freshly minced garlic gives a more robust flavor than garlic powder.
• Adjust the Soy Sauce to Taste – Start with 3 tablespoons and add more if needed.
• For Crispy Fried Rice – After cooking, transfer the rice to a pan and stir-fry with extra soy sauce for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Brown rice requires a longer cooking time than white rice, so it won’t work with the cooking time in this recipe. If you really want to use brown rice, you’ll need to increase the pressure cooking time to 22-24 minutes and increase the broth to 1¾ cups. However, this may overcook the chicken, so it’s best to use pre-cooked chicken if you go this route.

2. What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes! To make chicken fried rice on the stovetop:

1. Cook 1½ cups of jasmine rice according to package instructions, then let it cool.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add oil and scramble the eggs. Set them aside.
3. Sauté garlic, then add chicken and cook until done.
4. Stir in carrots and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil, stirring well.
6. Mix in the peas and scrambled eggs, then serve.

3. My rice turned out mushy. What went wrong?

If your rice is mushy, it’s likely because:

• You didn’t rinse it before cooking, leaving excess starch.
• You stirred before pressure cooking, causing too much moisture absorption.
• There was too much liquid—ensure you’re using the correct broth-to-rice ratio.
• You let it naturally release too long, which can overcook the rice. Try a 10-minute natural release followed by a quick release.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add:

• Bell peppers – Adds sweetness and crunch.
• Mushrooms – For an earthy, umami boost.
• Bok choy – A great leafy green addition.
• Corn – Adds sweetness and texture.
  Add firmer veggies before pressure cooking, but mix delicate ones in at the end to avoid overcooking.

Pro Tips for the Best Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

1. Rinse the Rice Thoroughly

Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky or mushy. Use a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. Don’t Stir Before Pressure Cooking

It’s crucial to layer the ingredients without stirring. Stirring can cause the rice to absorb too much liquid, leading to a mushy texture. Just press the rice down gently into the broth to ensure even cooking.

3. Scramble the Eggs First

Cooking the eggs first and setting them aside prevents them from overcooking. If you mix them in too early, they might become rubbery.

4. Use Fresh Garlic and Sesame Oil for Authentic Flavor

Garlic and sesame oil are the key flavor boosters in fried rice. Freshly minced garlic adds a rich aroma, while sesame oil gives that classic nutty taste.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is the perfect quick, one-pot meal that delivers the flavors of restaurant-style fried rice without the hassle. With tender chicken, fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and crisp vegetables, this dish is an easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly alternative to takeout.

The Instant Pot makes everything effortless, from cooking the rice to sealing in all the delicious flavors. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a family-friendly dish, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Also, if you enjoyed this recipe, share it with friends and family or tag me on social media with your homemade fried rice photos! I love seeing your creations.

Now go grab your Instant Pot and start cooking—your next flavor-packed meal is just 30 minutes away!

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