Irresistible Instant Pot Mexican Chicken Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of fragrant olive oil
• A small onion finely diced
• Diced small green bell pepper for a pop of color
• Minced garlic cloves for a flavorful kick
• Cubed skinless, boneless chicken breasts, about a pound in weight
• 1 ½ teaspoons of aromatic ground cumin
• A teaspoon of spicy cayenne pepper
• A pinch of salt for balanced seasoning
• 1 ¼ cups of fluffy long-grain white rice
• A can of black beans, rinsed and drained for added protein
• A can of diced tomatoes and green chiles (like RO*TEL®) for a zesty twist
• 1 ½ cups of rich chicken broth
• A cup of salsa for a burst of flavor
• ¾ cup of sweet frozen corn
• 1 ½ cups of grated Cheddar cheese, or more to suit your taste buds

Step 1

Begin by activating a versatile pressure cooker, like the beloved Instant Pot®, and opt for the Saute function. Start by pouring oil into the pot and adding in the aromatic trio of onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Let them sizzle for a couple of minutes, infusing the air with their delightful fragrance. Introduce the chicken next, generously seasoning it with a blend of cumin, cayenne, and salt, ensuring each piece is coated in flavorful goodness. Cook until the onions turn translucent and the chicken takes on a slight golden hue, enhancing the dish's visual appeal.

Step 2

Now, it's time to incorporate the rice into this symphony of flavors, stirring it in to absorb the tantalizing mix of oil and spices, creating a robust foundation for the dish. The stage is set for the addition of black beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, zesty salsa, and sweet corn, marrying all the ingredients together harmoniously. Once everything is perfectly combined, switch off the Saute function. Seal the deal by securing the lid, making sure the vent is set to Sealing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to set the cooker to high pressure and program the timer for 8 minutes. Allow the pressure to build for 10 to 15 minutes, intensifying the flavors within.

Step 3

Once the cooking time is up, release the pressure naturally, following the appliance's guidelines, which may take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes. Unlock the lid to reveal the tantalizing contents within. Sprinkle the top generously with Cheddar cheese, creating a gooey, melty blanket over the dish. Cover it again to let the steam work its magic, melting the cheese to perfection. After a brief interlude of about 3 minutes, your culinary masterpiece is ready to be served and savored.