Mexican Chicken and Rice

cooked chicken and rice in a white bowl topped with green peppers and avocado.

Cheesy Instant Pot Mexican Chicken and Rice is a family dinner favorite that is chock-full of flavor! A tasty dish that is comforting and customizable with delicious toppings.

Course Dinner

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword cheesy mexican chicken rice, instant pot chicken rice, Mexican chicken and rice

Prep Time 7

Cook Time 18

Total Time 25

Servings

Calories 524kcal

Author Maria Doss

Equipment

instant pot

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
½ cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 to 5 boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite size chunks
1 ½ tablespoons taco seasoning Click link for my favorite recipe

Group-1

1 cup Basmati rice rinsed and drained
1 cup corn frozen or fresh
1 cup chicken stock I used 33% reduced sodium
½ cup salsa
½ teaspoon salt or to taste

Group-2

1 cup Mexican cheese blend more for topping
¾ cup chopped cilantro
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

Heat instant pot to saute. When hot, add oil followed by chopped onions and garlic. Saute for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add chicken, taco seasoning and give a good stir. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tip: Don't skip this step! Cooking the spices and chicken in oil develops tons of flavor.
Press cancel and add all group-1 ingredients. Mix well, close and lock lid, making sure that the valve is set to seal.
Pressure cook at high pressure for 3 minutes, then natural release for 10 minutes.
Turn knob to venting position to release the remaining pressure. Open lid and gently stir in group-2 ingredients.
Sprinkle more cheese on top (use as much or as little as you like), close lid and let rest for 2 to 4 minutes for the cheese to melt.
Spoon into serving bowls, load up on your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Topping ideas - Avocado, cilantro, sour cream, pico de gallo, salsa, sliced jalapenos or cilantro.

Video

Notes

Stock - I used 33% less sodium chicken stock . If using regular sodium or salt free stock, then adjust salt accordingly.

Salt -The amount of salt needed varies based on the type of stock and salsa you use, as well as your personal taste preferences. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Make it more spicy - Add chopped jalapeños along with the onion and garlic and use a spicy salsa.

Adjust taco seasoning based on your preference.

Nutrition