Name: Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 15 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 2 h 43 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 5 garlic cloves (minced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 inch pieces); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth; 2 cups long grain white rice; ¼ cup red onion (diced); ¼ cup chopped parsley; ½ cup feta cheese

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 3 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant Mediterranean flavors and comes together with minimal fuss, the Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe is an absolute game changer. This comforting, aromatic meal combines tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon and herbs with perfectly cooked rice, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers layers of savory goodness, bright freshness, and satisfying heartiness in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to be a go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want a delicious home-cooked meal fast!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a clear rectangular container, there are many pieces of light pink raw chicken chunks, seasoned with small bits of minced garlic and specks of black pepper and herbs, scattered evenly across the surface of the chicken. The chicken pieces are soaked slightly in a thin, shiny marinade that pools at the bottom of the container. The container rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes the Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe so special is how simple, quality ingredients come together to create such a flavorful combination. Each ingredient plays a vital role—fresh lemon juice brings brightness, oregano and thyme add that classic Greek herbal touch, and feta adds a creamy, tangy finish that really elevates the dish.

Fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright, refreshing citrus zing that lifts the flavors.

Olive oil: Used both in the marinade and cooking for richness and to brown the chicken beautifully.
Garlic cloves (minced): Imparts a robust, aromatic depth to the marinade.
Dried oregano: A signature herb in Greek cuisine, giving that earthy, pungent note.

Dried thyme: Adds subtle complexity and a slightly minty undertone.
Salt and ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy tenderness and quick cooking.

Reduced-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses it with savory richness without overpowering the dish.
Long grain white rice: Cooks up fluffy and separate, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
Red onion (diced): Adds a mild sharpness and subtle crunch.

Chopped parsley (optional): Fresh herb garnish that adds color and a bright, clean finish.
Feta cheese (optional): Creamy, salty, and tangy, it brings that authentic Greek touch to the final dish.

How to Make Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a resealable container. Toss the chicken pieces in this vibrant marinade, making sure every piece is well coated. Seal it up and let your chicken soak up those flavors in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or for deeper flavor, up to 24 hours.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and let it get nice and hot. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then carefully place your chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the chicken lightly on all sides—that golden crust adds a ton of flavor and texture, so don’t rush this step! Once browned, remove the chicken but keep the marinade handy for later.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in half a cup of chicken broth to the hot pot and use a spatula to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This deglazing step ensures those flavors are reincorporated into your dish and prevents any burning during pressure cooking.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Into the pot goes your reserved marinade, remaining lemon juice, the rest of the chicken broth, freshly diced red onion, and long-grain rice. Give everything a gentle stir to mix, then nestle the browned chicken pieces right on top, so they cook perfectly alongside the rice.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Lock the Instant Pot lid in place and double-check that the pressure release valve is set to sealing. Choose manual high pressure and set the timer for 3 minutes. When the cook time finishes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes—this gentle release is key for tender chicken and fluffy rice.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

After releasing any remaining steam and carefully opening your pot, give everything a gentle stir. Top your creation with freshly chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese if you like that creamy, salty pop. Now you’re ready to dig into one of the most satisfying, fuss-free Greek dishes you can make!

How to Serve Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe

A white bowl is filled with two main parts: on the right side there is light brown rice mixed with small pieces of grilled light golden chicken, sprinkled with small white cheese crumbles and bits of green herbs; on the left side there is a fresh green salad made of mixed leafy greens, sliced red cherry tomatoes, dark purple olives, and thin pale purple onion rings, also topped with white crumbles of cheese. A silver fork holds a bite of rice and chicken on the right side of the bowl. To the upper left of the bowl, there is a small clear glass bowl with chunks of purple and white onion. The bowl and onion bowl are placed on a white marbled surface with a cream-colored knitted cloth at the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley and crumbled feta cheese not only adds vibrant color but also layers of fresh, tangy contrast to the dish. For a little extra zing, you could even scatter some kalamata olives or a dusting of smoked paprika.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp Greek salad loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, or a simple side of roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers to keep things light and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe in individual bowls topped with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a restaurant-quality presentation that’s sure to impress at any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

Freezing

This Greek chicken and rice freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Portion it out in freezer-safe containers so you can thaw exactly what you need for easy future meals.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. Giving it a quick stir halfway through helps everything heat evenly and stay tender.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice if you want extra juicy, flavorful meat. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces and adjust cooking times slightly if needed.

Is it okay to use brown rice instead of white rice?

While you can use brown rice, it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid. You may want to cook the brown rice separately and add it to the cooked chicken for best results.

Do I need to soak the chicken in the marinade for the full 24 hours?

Not at all. Even 2 hours of marinating imparts great flavor, but if you have the time, marinating longer will deepen the taste.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes, though the process will take longer. Brown the chicken in a skillet, then cook the rice separately and combine everything with the marinade in a baking dish to finish in the oven.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and approachable, focusing on lemony and herbaceous flavors rather than heat. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes if you want a little kick.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Instant Pot Greek Chicken and Rice Recipe. It’s a fantastic blend of bright, savory, and comforting flavors that’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to friends. Give it a try and discover just how delicious and effortless classic Greek-inspired cooking can be right at home!