If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, then look no further than this Instant Pot Fajita Rice. This colorful and flavorful dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant spices, all cooked together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy family dinner or need a meal prep idea for the week, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

A fusion of flavors and convenience, this Instant Pot Fajita Rice is not just about taste; it’s also about ease. Cooking everything in your Instant Pot allows the flavors to meld together perfectly while significantly cutting down on cooking time. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy bell peppers, and zesty fajita seasoning makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, you can tailor the recipe to suit your taste, making it a versatile option for any kitchen.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil
2 medium (650 g) chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium red onion diced
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green) – diced
1 medium tomato diced
2 cups (400 g) long grain rice rinsed
6 tablespoons fajita seasoning
2 cups (480 ml) vegetable stock
4 tablespoons (60 g) sour cream (optional)
1 cup (120 g) mozzarella cheese grated (optional)

How To Make Instant Pot Fajita Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the vegetable oil and let it heat up for a minute. Then, add the diced red onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your dish.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Next, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Season them lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Brown the chicken for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden on the outside. This step enhances the flavor and gives you tender chicken pieces.

Step 3: Add the Peppers and Tomato

Now, it’s time to add the vibrant bell peppers and diced tomato. Stir everything together for about a minute, allowing the vegetables to start softening.

Step 4: Incorporate the Rice and Seasoning

Add the rinsed long grain rice to the pot along with the fajita seasoning. Give everything a good stir, ensuring that the rice is well-coated with the spices.

Step 5: Pour in the Stock

Pour the vegetable stock over the rice mixture, making sure that all the rice is submerged. This will help cook the rice evenly.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of your Instant Pot, ensuring the steam release valve is set to Sealing. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Fluff and Serve

After the pressure has been fully released, open the lid and give the rice a gentle fluff using a fork. If you prefer, stir in the optional sour cream and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or additional toppings of your choice.

Expert Tips

Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can cause the rice to become gummy.
For a little extra heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute the chicken with beans or extra vegetables for a hearty meal.
Feel free to double the fajita seasoning for an extra punch of flavor!

Variations and Customizations

Swap out the chicken for shrimp or beef depending on your preference.
Add black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
Top with avocado slices or fresh cilantro for a refreshing touch.
Experiment with different types of cheese or even leave it out for a dairy-free option.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot Fajita Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the rice. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish for up to a month. Just portion it out in freezer-safe containers.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically needs to cook for about 22-25 minutes on high pressure and will require additional liquid.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if using cold ingredients.

What can I substitute for fajita seasoning?

If you don’t have fajita seasoning on hand, you can create your own mix using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this Instant Pot Fajita Rice is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and can be divided into meal-sized portions for easy lunches throughout the week.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Fajita Rice is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings bright flavors and hearty textures to your table in no time. With from-scratch simplicity and the versatility to adapt to your tastes or dietary preferences, it’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the ease of one-pot cooking, and dig into a comforting bowl of fajita rice tonight!

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