If you’re craving a quick, comforting dish that bursts with flavor and doesn’t keep you tethered to the stove, this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is your new best friend. It combines tender chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, vibrant veggies, and that unmistakable savory kick from soy and sesame oils—all cooked effortlessly in one pot. Whether you’re rushing home after work or simply want a fuss-free dinner that tastes like it took hours, this recipe delivers satisfying homemade goodness faster than you’d expect.

Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity, with each ingredient playing an essential role. Freshness from garlic and carrots, protein-packed chicken and eggs for hearty goodness, and the unmistakable aroma of soy and sesame oils all come together perfectly. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to build this delicious meal.

2 tsp vegetable oil, divided: Used for sautéing eggs and garlic, it keeps everything from sticking while adding subtle richness.
2 eggs, whisked: Adds creaminess and protein, scrambled right in the pot for ease and flavor.
3 garlic cloves, minced: The aromatic base that wakes up every other ingredient.
1¼ cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and a savory depth, perfect for cooking the rice and melty chicken.
1 lb chicken breast, diced: Lean but juicy protein to make this meal satisfying and hearty.
1 cup diced carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and a lovely pop of color to brighten the dish.
1½ cups jasmine rice, rinsed: The fluffy foundation that soaks up all those great flavors.
½ cup frozen peas: For bursts of sweetness and a nice vibrant green contrast.
3–4 tbsp soy sauce: Brings that classic salty, umami flavor that defines fried rice.
1 tsp sesame oil: Just a drizzle for a fragrant, toasty finish that takes the dish to the next level.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Scramble the Eggs

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and pour in 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Once the pot is hot, add the whisked eggs and cook, stirring gently, until just scrambled. Remove the eggs and set them aside. This step builds a fluffy, tender egg component that blends beautifully later.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Next, add the remaining 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil to the pot. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just a minute until it’s fragrant—this will release its perfect aromatic kick that will enhance the entire dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Rice Base

Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scrapping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—this adds a deep, roasted flavor to your rice. Then carefully layer in the diced chicken, carrots, and rinsed jasmine rice, distributing everything evenly but resist the urge to stir.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Fried Rice

Seal the Instant Pot by closing the lid and setting the valve to sealing. Set the cooker to High Pressure and cook for 3 minutes. This brief cooking time is just enough to make the rice fluffy and the chicken perfectly tender without overcooking.

Step 5: Release the Pressure

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before switching to a quick release for any remaining pressure. This helps the rice finish cooking gently, avoiding mushiness and keeping the texture just right.

Step 6: Add the Final Touches

Open the lid and stir in your scrambled eggs, frozen peas, soy sauce, and that beautiful sesame oil. Give everything a good mix so the flavors marry together, then serve immediately while warm and inviting.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. A few toasted sesame seeds on top add a great textural contrast, and if you like a little heat, a drizzle of chili oil or some crushed red pepper flakes wake things up delightfully.

Side Dishes

This fried rice shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crunchy cucumber salad or simple steamed broccoli. If you want to add more protein or variety, try some grilled shrimp or a side of egg rolls for a complete and satisfying meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken fried rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or fry the rice crisp for a crunchy bottom layer. You could also top it with a fried egg for an ultra-rich and satisfying dinner with an extra layer of indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover fried rice in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It retains its flavor and texture well, making for an easy lunch or quick dinner the next day.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, this Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, toss the rice in a hot skillet or microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Adding a little more soy sauce or sesame oil can revive the flavors and keep it tasting fresh.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Brown rice takes longer to cook than jasmine rice, so it’s not recommended for this quick-pressure cooking method. If you want to try, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, but the texture will be different.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth, skip the chicken, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or tofu for protein. The flavors remain delicious.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Peas and carrots are classic, but bell peppers, corn, or even snap peas make great additions. Just dice them uniformly and consider how long they take to cook when layering in the pot.

Do I need to rinse the rice?

Rinsing jasmine rice removes excess surface starch, which prevents it from becoming gummy during cooking. It is highly recommended for the best texture in this recipe.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make a similar fried rice on the stove, but it won’t have the same set-it-and-forget-it convenience. Saute the ingredients and cook the rice traditionally, stirring frequently to build layers of flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a total game changer for busy weeknights when you want something tasty, wholesome, and downright satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Once you try this effortless one-pot wonder, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Dive in and enjoy the magic!