Some meals just feel like home, and this Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice is one of them. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with rich, earthy flavors that make every bite feel like a cozy embrace.
The nutty chew of wild rice, the savory depth of mushrooms, and the sweet pops of dried cranberries come together in a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
And the best part? The Instant Pot does all the work, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that tastes like it simmered for hours—except it’s ready in under 40 minutes.
With its mix of whole grains, lean protein, and hearty vegetables, this dish is a powerhouse of nutrition. Wild rice is naturally high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for a wholesome, balanced meal.
Plus, chicken thighs stay incredibly tender in the Instant Pot, soaking up the aromatic broth infused with garlic, thyme, and just a hint of sweetness from apples.
If you’re serving a crowd, pair it with some creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal. And don’t forget dessert—these Cream Cheese Frosted Pumpkin Bars bring the perfect touch of sweetness to round out the meal.
There’s a reason this recipe has been trending—it’s easy, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or just craving a cozy meal, this Instant Pot favorite is one you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Again and Again!
- It’s an effortless one-pot wonder: No need to juggle multiple pans—the Instant Pot locks in all the flavors with minimal cleanup.
- The texture is amazing: Wild rice stays perfectly chewy, the chicken is fall-apart tender, and the mushrooms add a hearty, meaty bite.
- It’s packed with nutrients: Whole grains, lean protein, and antioxidant-rich cranberries make this as nourishing as it is delicious.
- It’s cozy, but not heavy: This dish has all the warmth of comfort food without feeling overly rich or heavy.
- It’s great for leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or any electric pressure cooker)
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 8 ounce package sliced fresh mushrooms
- ½ cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 small firm apple cored and chopped
- 1 ½ cups uncooked wild and brown rice blend such as Lundberg Wild Blend®
- ½ cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 ¼ pounds skinless boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode, heat olive oil, and sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Add chicken broth, chopped apple, wild rice blend, dried cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Place chicken thighs on top (do not stir) and close the lid.
- Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid, remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.
- Stir everything together and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb flavors.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley, serve hot, and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 385kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 44g |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Sugar | 12g |
| Sodium | 123mg |
Next-Level Variations for Instant Pot Chicken and Wild Rice!
- Smoky & Spiced Twist – Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat that balances beautifully with the sweet cranberries. A dash of cinnamon can add unexpected warmth.
- Umami Boost – Swap half the chicken broth for unsweetened coconut milk or add a splash of soy sauce for depth. A spoonful of miso paste stirred in at the end gives it a rich, earthy finish.
- Creamy & Indulgent – After cooking, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or a few tablespoons of cream cheese for a luscious, velvety texture. This takes the dish from cozy to pure comfort food.
- Crunch & Texture Play – Garnish with toasted pecans or walnuts for a nutty contrast. A sprinkle of crispy shallots or fried sage leaves adds a gourmet restaurant-style touch.
- Slow-Braised Depth – If you have time, let the cooked dish sit on “Keep Warm” for 20 minutes after releasing pressure. This lets the flavors deepen and meld beautifully, creating an even richer taste.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
