Instant Pot Chicken and Saffron Yellow Rice
A one-pot comfort meal that combines tender chicken strips with aromatic saffron-seasoned yellow rice cooked under pressure. The Instant Pot creates perfectly fluffy rice while infusing the chicken with savory flavors from bay leaves and garlic. This hearty dish serves as a complete dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the fuss of multiple pans.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 3 large bay leaves
- 10 oz Vigo Saffron yellow rice
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken, cut into thin strips
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
Instructions
- 1
Turn on sauté setting and heat olive oil with diced onion
- 2
Sauté onion until translucent
- 3
Add garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, then cancel sauté
- 4
Add yellow rice package contents and break up clumps with wooden spoon
- 5
Add bay leaves and black pepper, stir to combine
- 6
Pour chicken broth over rice
- 7
Add chicken strips and stir to combine and dissolve seasoning clumps
- 8
Secure lid and set pressure valve to sealing
- 9
Press manual and set timer for 5 minutes
- 10
After cooking, cancel and quick release pressure
- 11
Let stand covered for 15 minutes without opening
- 12
Check rice for doneness and transfer to serving bowl immediately
Tips
Break up rice seasoning clumps thoroughly with a wooden spoon to ensure even distribution of saffron flavor throughout the dish.
Transfer rice immediately after the 15-minute rest to prevent overcooking and mushiness from residual heat.
If rice seems underdone, keep lid on without additional pressure cooking - residual heat will finish the cooking process.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days in airtight container
Can prep ingredients up to 1 day ahead, store separately
Serve immediately while hot, garnish with fresh herbs if desired
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the 15-minute rest period to avoid undercooked rice
Don't open lid during rest time to prevent steam loss
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use regular rice instead of yellow rice mix?
Yes, use 1 cup regular rice with a pinch of saffron or turmeric for color and flavor. Adjust liquid ratio as needed.
What if my rice is still hard after cooking?
Keep the lid on without additional pressure cooking. The residual heat will continue cooking the rice. Check after 5 minutes.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to restore moisture.