Easy Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice Recipe
If you’re searching for a dish that’s both quick and packed with flavor, the Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice recipe is your new best friend. This wholesome meal combines tender chicken sausage with perfectly cooked rice and vibrant veggies, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that delivers comfort and convenience in every bite, ready in minutes with simple, everyday ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in the Instant Pot.
- Wholesome ingredients: Balanced protein, carbohydrates, and veggies for a nutritious meal.
- Customizable flavors: Easily adjust spices and veggies to match your preferences.
- Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in the Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice recipe plays a key role in bringing together a dish full of flavor, texture, and color. The simplicity of these staples means you can easily find them in your pantry or refrigerator, making this meal a go-to anytime.
- Chicken sausage: Adds protein and savory depth, use quality sausages with herbs for best taste.
- Long grain white rice: Cooks perfectly alongside the sausage, ensuring fluffy, separate grains.
- Onion and garlic: Classic aromatics that provide a flavorful base.
- Bell peppers: Bring color and subtle sweetness, plus a satisfying crunch.
- Chicken broth: Essential for cooking the rice and infusing the entire dish with hearty flavor.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics and sausage evenly.
- Spices (paprika, thyme, salt, pepper): Enhance and balance the dish, creating warmth and depth without overpowering.
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional): Adds a bright, fresh finish for an extra pop of flavor.
Variations for Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice
This Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice recipe is beautifully adaptable. Whether you want to suit dietary restrictions or simply experiment with flavors, these variations make it easy to customize your meal to your liking.
- Swap meats: Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a leaner or vegetarian option.
- Add veggies: Toss in spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.
- Spice it up: Include crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to give it a kick.
- Use brown rice: For a nuttier flavor and more fiber, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Cheesy finish: Stir in shredded cheese after cooking for a creamy twist.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice
Step 1: Prep the Sausage and Vegetables
Start by slicing the chicken sausage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the bell peppers into small chunks. These prep steps ensure everything cooks evenly and quickly in the Instant Pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Sausage
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add olive oil, then cook the sausage until browned on all sides for maximum flavor. Remove the sausage, then sauté onions, garlic, and peppers in the same pot until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Add Rice and Broth
Pour in the long grain rice and stir to coat it well with the pan flavors. Add the chicken broth, along with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine, then return the cooked sausage to the pot layered on top of the rice mixture.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure cooker to high for 8 minutes. Once the cooking cycle finishes, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Open the lid, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and mix the sausage and vegetables evenly together. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and get ready to enjoy your delicious meal!
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice
- Use quality sausage: Flavorful sausage makes a huge difference in the final dish.
- Don’t skip sautéing: Browning the sausage and veggies adds rich, caramelized flavor.
- Rice ratio matters: Stick to the recommended liquid to rice ratio to avoid mushy or undercooked rice.
- Natural pressure release: Helps the rice finish cooking gently, keeping it fluffy.
- Fresh herbs for freshness: Add right before serving to brighten the flavors.
How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a lovely tang that brightens the dish. For a little extra richness, a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on the side works beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. Roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a crisp cucumber salad complement the warm, hearty flavors of the rice and sausage perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice in colorful bowls for a cozy, casual dinner or plate it elegantly with garnishes and sides for guests. You can also stuff the mixture into bell peppers and bake for a festive presentation that doubles as a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, making it super convenient for future busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and avoid drying out the sausage.
FAQs
Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?
Yes! While white long grain rice cooks best in this recipe, you can use brown rice or jasmine rice with some adjustments to the cooking time and liquid amount.
Is chicken sausage healthier than pork sausage?
Generally, chicken sausage tends to be lower in fat and calories than pork sausage, making it a leaner choice without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
You can adapt this recipe using a stovetop pot by sautéing sausage and vegetables first, then adding rice and broth and cooking covered on low until the rice is tender, although cooking times will be longer.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Prepare a big batch, portion it out into containers, and enjoy healthy, ready-made meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Chicken Sausage and Rice recipe is a true lifesaver for anyone craving a quick, tasty, and wholesome meal. Its simple ingredients and easy steps combine to create a comforting dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try tonight and see how effortlessly delicious weeknight dinners can be!
