Effortless Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

Transform your busy weeknights with this incredibly satisfying **Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice** recipe. It’s a culinary masterpiece that brings the vibrant flavors of your favorite takeout dish directly to your kitchen table, but with the unmatched speed and convenience of your Instant Pot. This recipe artfully blends succulent pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all coated in a savory, umami-rich sauce. The result is a complete, well-balanced meal that promises to delight every member of your family, making it an instant favorite in your dinner rotation.

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Contents

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice isn’t just another meal; it’s a solution for delicious, effortless dining. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your weekly menu:

**Effortless Takeout Favorite:** Enjoy the authentic taste of your beloved chicken fried rice without the need to leave your home or wait for delivery. This recipe captures all the classic flavors you crave, offering a healthier and often more satisfying alternative to restaurant versions.
**Budget-Friendly Ingredients:** You only need a handful of common, simple ingredients readily available at any grocery store. This makes it an incredibly economical choice for feeding your family, proving that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank. You likely have most of these staples in your pantry right now!
**Picky-Eater Approved:** This simple, universally appealing dish is a guaranteed hit with even the most discerning palates. The tender chicken, flavorful rice, and subtly incorporated vegetables make it a meal that everyone, from toddlers to adults, will happily devour, saving you from making multiple meals.
**Hands-Off Convenience:** The magic of the Instant Pot means it does most of the heavy lifting. Say goodbye to standing over a hot stove, constantly stirring and monitoring. The pressure cooker ensures consistent results and frees up your time, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax.
**Lightning-Fast Dinner Solution:** From prep to plate, this recipe can be ready in approximately 30 minutes, making it the ultimate savior for those frantic weeknights when time is of the essence but you still desire a wholesome, homemade meal.

Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness that this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice brings to your table. It’s truly a game-changer for quick, family-friendly meals.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice begins with selecting the right ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the end of this page.

Ingredient Spotlight

Understanding the role of each ingredient will help you master this recipe and feel confident making substitutions if needed:

**Jasmine Rice:** While traditional Chinese fried rice often uses long-grain white rice, Jasmine rice is highly recommended for this recipe due to its aromatic fragrance and slightly sticky, yet distinct, grains. It cooks beautifully in the Instant Pot, absorbing flavors wonderfully. Remember to rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent clumping and results in fluffier grains.
**Vegetable Oil (for eggs):** A neutral-flavored oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil is ideal for scrambling the eggs. Its high smoke point allows for quick cooking without imparting unwanted flavors.
**Sesame Oil, Oyster Sauce, and Soy Sauce:** These three ingredients are the backbone of many Asian-inspired dishes and are absolutely essential for achieving that authentic, rich fried rice flavor. Sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty aroma, oyster sauce provides a complex savory and slightly sweet depth, and soy sauce delivers the foundational salty, umami taste. Don’t skip these for the best results!
**Chicken:** Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces, are perfect for quick cooking and uniform distribution throughout the rice. Chicken thighs are a delicious alternative, offering a slightly richer flavor and more tender texture. Ensure your chicken is cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
**Onion, Garlic, and Spices:** Freshly diced onion and minced garlic form the aromatic foundation, infusing the dish with incredible depth of flavor. Garlic powder and black pepper are used to season the chicken, enhancing its savory profile before cooking. These simple spices elevate the overall taste.
**Mixed Vegetables:** A bag of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans) is a convenient and colorful addition that boosts both nutrition and visual appeal. You can also use fresh vegetables like chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas; just blanch them quickly beforehand or add them during the sautéing stage.

Endless Adaptability: Recipe Variations

One of the best aspects of fried rice is its incredible versatility. Feel free to customize this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

**Vegetarian Version:** Easily transform this into a meat-free meal by swapping the chicken for firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, or a medley of mushrooms. For the liquid, use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon to maintain a vegetarian profile.
**Spicier Kick:** If you love a bit of heat, introduce a dash of red pepper flakes during the sautéing of the aromatics, or stir in your favorite hot sauce (like Sriracha) just before serving. A drizzle of chili oil also adds a wonderful spicy depth.
**Meatless Marvel:** For a simpler, meat-free fried rice, simply skip the chicken cooking step entirely. Begin by sautéing the onion and garlic as instructed, then proceed with the rest of the recipe. This highlights the delicious rice and vegetable components.
**Hearty Ground Beef Fried Rice:** For a different protein, substitute chicken with ground beef. Brown the ground beef thoroughly in the Instant Pot’s sauté mode before adding the onion and garlic. Drain any excess fat if necessary, then continue with the recipe as written.
**Shrimp or Pork Delight:** Consider adding cooked shrimp or thinly sliced pork. If using shrimp, add it towards the end to avoid overcooking. For pork, ensure it’s cooked through before combining with the rice.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Success

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here are a few essential items that will help you prepare this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice with ease:

Mixing bowl: Ideal for marinating the chicken and preparing your sauce mixture.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients in your Instant Pot and scraping the bottom to prevent sticking.
Instant Pot: The star of this recipe, making the entire process quick and convenient. Any model will work, but a 6-quart or 8-quart is usually ideal for family meals.
Small nonstick skillet: Useful for quickly scrambling the eggs separately, though you can also cook them in the Instant Pot liner before adding chicken.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection

Creating this flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is surprisingly simple, thanks to the efficiency of pressure cooking. This section provides a concise overview of the process. For detailed instructions, precise measurements, and timing, please refer to the complete recipe card below.

Begin by sautéing the seasoned chicken in sesame oil within your Instant Pot until it’s lightly browned.
Once the chicken is cooked through, add the diced onion and minced garlic, continuing to sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the water, ensuring you scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any stuck-on bits – this is crucial for preventing a “burn” notice. Cancel the sauté function. Then, add the rinsed rice, chicken bouillon, and frozen mixed vegetables. Place the lid on the pot, seal the pressure valve, and pressure cook on high for 3 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 3 minutes before proceeding.
Carefully release any remaining pressure using the quick release method. Stir in the separately scrambled eggs and the prepared sauce mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving this delightful meal.

Looking for another incredible all-in-one meal? You might also love our Hamburger Rice Casserole next!

Expert Tips for the Best Fried Rice

Achieving restaurant-quality fried rice at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:

**Rice Selection Matters:** This recipe has been meticulously tested and perfected using Jasmine white rice. If you opt for a different variety, such as brown rice or Basmati, be aware that you may need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of water to achieve the desired texture. Different rices absorb liquid differently.
**Leverage Leftover Chicken:** A fantastic time-saver! If you have pre-cooked chicken, such as leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken, you can skip the initial chicken sautéing step. Simply add the cooked chicken along with the scrambled eggs and sauce mixture at the very end of the recipe, after the rice has finished cooking.
**Season Your Eggs:** While optional, seasoning your scrambled eggs with a pinch of black pepper adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the fried rice beautifully. Feel free to skip if you prefer a simpler egg flavor.
**One-Pot Egg Cooking (Optional):** To minimize cleanup, you can scramble the eggs directly in your Instant Pot. Cook them on sauté mode before adding the chicken, then remove them and set aside. Proceed with cooking the chicken and the rest of the recipe as instructed, stirring the cooked eggs back in at the end. This prevents dirtying an extra skillet.
**Oil and Broth Alternatives:** Feel free to substitute vegetable oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile, or use chicken broth instead of water for an even richer, deeper chicken flavor in your rice. These small changes can significantly impact the final taste.
**Preventing the “Burn” Notice:** Always ensure you thoroughly scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot liner after sautéing to deglaze any stuck-on bits of food. This is crucial before adding liquid and pressure cooking to avoid the dreaded “burn” message.
**Fluffing the Rice:** After the pressure release, use a fork or a wooden spoon to gently fluff the rice. This separates the grains, prevents them from clumping, and allows the remaining sauce to be evenly incorporated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to reheat fried rice?

The optimal way to reheat fried rice is in a non-stick skillet on the stovetop. Add about a tablespoon of oil to the skillet and heat it over medium heat until shimmering. Then, add the leftover fried rice and stir frequently, breaking up any clumps, until it’s thoroughly heated through and steaming. To help rehydrate the rice and restore its moisture, you may need to add 2-3 tablespoons of water or chicken broth during the reheating process. This method helps maintain a desirable texture.

Do I need to use cooked rice for this recipe?

No, for this specific Instant Pot recipe, you do not need to use pre-cooked rice. The beauty of this recipe lies in its one-pot convenience: the pressure cooker simultaneously cooks the uncooked rice along with the chicken and vegetables. It’s essential, however, to use a long-grain variety like Jasmine rice, as other types may require different liquid ratios and cooking times in a pressure cooker to achieve the perfect consistency.

Should I rinse the rice first?

Yes, absolutely! I highly recommend rinsing the Jasmine rice thoroughly under cold running water before adding it to your Instant Pot. Rinsing removes excess surface starch, which is crucial for preventing the rice grains from sticking together and clumping. This step ensures your fried rice is wonderfully fluffy and separates beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Best Practices

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice makes fantastic leftovers, perfect for meal prep or quick lunches:

**Refrigerate:** Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it cools completely before sealing the container.
**Freeze:** For longer storage, fried rice can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooled rice in freezer-safe airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
**Reheat:** The best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Place the rice in a non-stick skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth (about 1-2 tablespoons per cup of rice) and reheat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also reheat in the microwave, adding a teaspoon or two of water per cup of rice and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and moisture.

Make Ahead for Meal Prep

While my family often prefers this dish fresh, certain components can be prepared in advance to further streamline your cooking process:

**Sauce Mixture:** Combine the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and water ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
**Chicken Prep:** Cut and marinate the chicken with garlic powder, black pepper, and a bit of oil the day before. Keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.
**Vegetable Chopping:** If using fresh vegetables, chop your onion and mince your garlic in advance.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of complementary dishes to create an even more elaborate feast:

For a delightful appetizer, serve it alongside classic potstickers or crispy egg rolls. If you’re looking for more protein, these light and flavorful Chicken Lettuce Wraps are an excellent choice.
Balance the richness of the fried rice with a warm bowl of Instant Pot Tomato Basil Soup for a comforting and hearty combination.
Add a simple, nutritious side by preparing quick and easy Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli, offering a fresh, crisp contrast.
Conclude your meal with a sweet and intriguing dessert like a Tanghulu skewer, a candied fruit treat that provides a lovely finish to this savory dish.

More Delicious Recipes to Explore

Panda Express Kung Pao Chicken Copycat
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Panda Express SweetFire Chicken Breast
Tanghulu Recipe

A big white bowl of instant pot chicken fried rice garnished with green onions.

Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Chicken fried rice is a beloved family favorite, and this Instant Pot version makes it quicker and simpler than ever. Better than any takeout, you’ll want to add this delicious recipe to your regular dinner rotation for effortless weeknight meals.

5 from 5 votes

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Diet: Halal

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4 Servings

Calories: 257kcal

Author: Amira

Ingredients

2 teaspoons oyster sauce
1 Tablespoon soy sauce
1 Tablespoon water
1 Tablespoon oil vegetable oil or any light tasting oil
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons sesame oil
2 eggs
1 boneless skinless chicken breast 8oz – 220g, thinly cut
1 small onion (80g)
2 garlic cloves
1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
½ teaspoon powder chicken bouillon
1 cup Jasmine rice rinsed
1 cup water

For garnish

Green onion, sliced
Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of water. Set aside.
Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in another bowl. Sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper. Add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of the prepared sauce mixture. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated, then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Once hot, pour in the 2 tablespoons of sesame oil.
Add the marinated chicken to the Instant Pot and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown all sides.
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Continue to sauté for approximately 2 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Pour in 1 cup of water, then use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot thoroughly, ensuring all browned bits are unstuck. This step is crucial to prevent a “burn” notice during pressure cooking.
Cancel the “Sauté” function. Add the rinsed Jasmine rice, chicken bouillon powder, and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Stir everything gently to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquids.
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure release valve to the “Sealing” position. Pressure cook on High for 3 minutes.
While the rice is cooking, heat a small non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and scramble the 2 eggs until cooked through. Set the scrambled eggs aside.
Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to natural pressure release (NPR) for 3 minutes. After 3 minutes, perform a manual quick release in short bursts until all remaining pressure is vented. Carefully open the lid.
Pour the remaining sauce mixture evenly over the rice. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice and incorporate the sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Stir in the scrambled eggs. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice!

Notes

This recipe has been tested and perfected using Jasmine rice. If you choose to use other rice types, you might need to adjust the water quantity or cooking time accordingly.
To make this dish with ground beef, brown the beef thoroughly in the Instant Pot before proceeding with the recipe steps.
If you are using pre-cooked or leftover chicken, simply skip the initial chicken cooking step and add the cooked chicken along with the scrambled eggs at the very end.
For enhanced flavor, I enjoy seasoning the scrambled eggs with a pinch of black pepper, but this is entirely optional and can be skipped.
Cooking the eggs separately in a non-stick skillet on the stovetop is generally quicker. However, for a one-pot approach, you can scramble the eggs in the Instant Pot first, then remove them and set aside before cooking the chicken and continuing with the recipe.
**Storage:**
- Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Please refer to our nutrition disclaimer policy for more information.

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