Fast and Flavorful Chicken and Wild Rice Bowls in the Instant Pot®
This easy recipe combines tender chicken and hearty wild rice for a comforting meal you can whip up in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with flavor and ready straight from your Instant Pot®.
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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Step 1
Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and heating up a splash of olive oil. Toss in the mushrooms and onion, cooking and stirring them for about 3 minutes until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for just about 30 seconds until it smells amazing, then turn off the sauté mode.
Step 2
Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the apple, wild rice, dried cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper. Nestle the chicken thighs right on top of the rice mixture without stirring everything together. Lock the lid in place and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Set the pot to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
Step 3
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes—this helps everything finish cooking gently. After that, carefully switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam before opening the lid.
Step 4
Take the chicken out and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, then stir it back into the pot with the rice and fruit mixture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, scoop into bowls, and enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
This dish comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender chicken and nutty wild rice makes for a satisfying meal. Plus, using the Instant Pot® means less time cooking and more time enjoying your food.
How to serve
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. A drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a bright, fresh flavor. You can also top it with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice moist. This meal also freezes well—just thaw overnight before reheating.



