Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks and Rice (Arroz Con Pollo) is a quick and easy 45-minute pressure cooker recipe with Cuban seasonings and Spanish rice. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or advanced meal prep.

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Mastering Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo: A Quick & Flavorful Cuban Chicken and Rice Recipe

Discover the ultimate weeknight dinner solution with this incredible Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks and Rice recipe, widely known as Arroz con Pollo. This beloved Cuban classic, traditionally a labor of love, is transformed into a convenient, one-pot marvel using the magic of your pressure cooker. In just about 45 minutes, you can have a deeply flavorful, aromatic, and satisfying meal featuring incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks nestled atop perfectly cooked Spanish rice, all infused with authentic Cuban seasonings. Whether you’re seeking a quick family meal or planning your advanced meal prep for the week, this recipe delivers on both taste and efficiency, bringing the vibrant spirit of Cuban cuisine right to your kitchen table.

My Culinary Journey to Cuba: The Inspiration Behind This Recipe

My passion for Arroz con Pollo was ignited during an unforgettable trip to Cuba last month. It was an experience that truly left a mark on me, from the captivating culture to the genuine warmth of its people and, of course, the extraordinary food. Everywhere I went, the aroma of delicious cooking filled the air, and Arroz con Pollo quickly became a staple on my plate. I must have enjoyed this iconic dish almost daily during my week-long adventure, each version offering its own unique charm.

The culinary highlight of my visit was a hands-on cooking class in the home of a local Cuban resident. It was there that I learned the true art of crafting Arroz con Pollo, absorbing traditional techniques and the secrets behind its rich, savory flavor. The meal we prepared in that humble kitchen was, without a doubt, the most authentic and delicious food of the entire trip. Returning home, I was determined to recreate that experience, adapting the timeless flavors of Cuban Arroz con Pollo for the modern kitchen, specifically leveraging the speed and efficiency of my Instant Pot. My goal was to capture that succulent chicken and perfectly seasoned rice, but in a fraction of the time.

Why the Instant Pot is Perfect for Arroz con Pollo

The Instant Pot isn’t just a kitchen gadget; it’s a culinary game-changer, especially when preparing dishes like Arroz con Pollo. Its pressure cooking capabilities ensure results that are often superior to traditional methods, all while significantly cutting down on active cooking time. Here’s why your Instant Pot is the ultimate tool for this Cuban chicken and rice:

• Unrivaled Chicken Tenderness: Achieving truly tender, juicy chicken drumsticks that effortlessly fall off the bone can be a challenge. The Instant Pot’s high-pressure environment works wonders, infusing the chicken with flavor while breaking down connective tissues, resulting in an unparalleled texture. No other cooking method, in my opinion, delivers such consistently succulent results for chicken drumsticks.
• Flawless Rice, Every Time: Gone are the days of mushy or unevenly cooked rice. The Instant Pot provides a perfectly controlled, consistent cooking environment, ensuring that every grain of your Spanish rice absorbs the rich broth and seasonings, emerging fluffy and distinct. It’s so effective, I rarely use a standalone rice cooker anymore!
• Streamlined One-Pot Cooking: This recipe leverages the Instant Pot’s versatility, allowing you to sauté aromatics, brown the chicken, and cook the rice all in a single pot. This multi-functionality translates to less time spent monitoring multiple pans and, more importantly, drastically reduces your post-meal cleanup.
• Effortless Meal Prep: One of the greatest advantages of the Instant Pot for this recipe is its hands-off nature. Once you’ve added your ingredients and sealed the lid, you’re free to walk away and attend to other tasks. This makes Arroz con Pollo an ideal candidate for advanced meal prep; dedicate just 45-50 minutes on a Sunday, and you’ll have flavorful, satisfying lunches or dinners ready for the entire week.

The ability to ‘set it and forget it’ means you can achieve gourmet-level results without being chained to the stove. It’s perfect for busy lifestyles that demand delicious, home-cooked meals without the fuss.

The Heart of the Flavor: Cuban Seasoning Essentials

The unmistakable, rich flavor profile of Arroz con Pollo is deeply rooted in its signature Cuban seasoning. This blend of spices is what truly brings the dish to life, imparting a warm, savory, and aromatic complexity that is simply irresistible. For convenience, many well-stocked grocery stores offer pre-mixed Cuban seasoning blends. McCormick’s, for example, is a widely accessible option that delivers consistent results. However, for those who enjoy customizing their flavors or prefer the freshest possible spices, creating your own blend is a rewarding experience.

My preferred homemade Cuban seasoning mix, which perfectly balances the traditional notes, includes:

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika can add an extra layer of depth)
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano for a more authentic touch, if available)

This combination strikes a beautiful harmony: the earthy, slightly citrusy notes of coriander, the warm and pungent aroma of cumin, the mild sweetness and vibrant color of paprika, and the robust herbaceousness of oregano. Feel free to adjust these quantities to match your personal taste preference – perhaps a little more cumin for a bolder flavor, or extra paprika for a richer hue. This spice blend is not just for chicken and rice; it’s incredibly versatile and can be used to season other meats, vegetables, or even soups, adding a distinct Cuban flair to any dish.

Choosing Your Rice: Speed, Texture, and Nutrition

The choice of rice plays a significant role in the overall texture and cooking time of Arroz con Pollo. For this Instant Pot adaptation, I specifically recommend using extra-long grain enriched white rice. This decision is driven by a combination of factors, balancing rapid cooking with a desirable outcome.

The Pursuit of Speed in Instant Pot Cooking

As a home cook focused on efficiency, a primary goal for my Instant Pot recipes is to minimize cooking time without compromising on flavor or quality. While I am a huge advocate for brown rice due to its rich fiber content and nutritional benefits (a topic I frequently highlight in many of my other recipes), it requires a considerably longer cooking duration, even under pressure. Brown rice typically needs 25-30 minutes of cook time in the Instant Pot, which, while faster than traditional methods, stretches beyond my ideal 30-45 minute total meal preparation target. In contrast, enriched long-grain white rice cooks perfectly in the Instant Pot in less than 10 minutes, making it the ultimate choice for a truly quick weeknight meal.

Nutritional Considerations of Enriched White Rice

When rice undergoes the milling process to become white rice, its outer layers (bran and germ), which contain most of the fiber, B vitamins, and iron, are removed. To compensate for this loss, white rice is often “enriched,” meaning these essential vitamins and minerals are added back. While enriched white rice offers improved nutritional value compared to its unenriched counterpart, it generally still contains less fiber and a slightly different nutrient profile than whole-grain brown rice. Therefore, while brown rice remains my top choice for its superior fiber content and overall nutritional density, enriched long-grain white rice serves as an excellent and practical alternative for this recipe. It helps achieve the classic Arroz con Pollo texture and taste within a swift timeframe, proving to be a convenient and satisfying option for this flavorful dish.

This chicken is so tender the meat is literally falling off the bone….just the way I like it! Each drumstick is a testament to the Instant Pot’s ability to create incredibly succulent and flavorful poultry.

Essential Equipment for Your Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo

Preparing this delicious Cuban Chicken and Rice dish is straightforward, requiring only a few key pieces of kitchen equipment:

• Instant Pot: A 6-quart or 8-quart model is ideal for accommodating all the ingredients.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: Crucial for rinsing the rice thoroughly to prevent stickiness.
• Tongs: For safe and easy handling of the chicken drumsticks during browning.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for deglazing the pot, ensuring all flavorful browned bits are scraped up.

Ingredients for Authentic Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo

To create this flavorful and comforting Cuban classic, gather the following fresh ingredients:

• Chicken Drumsticks: 5 pieces (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor, or skinless for a lighter option)
• Rice: 1 ½ cups enriched long grain white rice, thoroughly rinsed until water runs clear
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• Water: 1 ¾ cup
• Onion: 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced (adjust according to your preference for garlic intensity)
• Cuban Seasoning: To taste (use a store-bought blend or your homemade mix: 1 teaspoon coriander, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons oregano)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Bell Peppers: ½ cup red bell peppers, chopped; ½ cup green bell peppers, chopped
• Fresh Parsley: 1 teaspoon, chopped, for garnish

Pro-tip: Rinsing the rice is a non-negotiable step! It removes excess starch, which is key to achieving perfectly separate, fluffy grains rather than a gummy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo

1. Prepare the Rice: Begin by placing the long-grain white rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water until the water coming through the strainer runs completely clear. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy, non-sticky rice texture. Set the rinsed rice aside.
2. Season the Chicken: Generously season the chicken drumsticks on all sides with your chosen Cuban seasoning blend, along with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure an even coating for maximum flavor.
3. Brown the Chicken: Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Allow the pot to heat up until the display indicates “Hot.” Add the olive oil to the inner pot. Using tongs, carefully place the seasoned drumsticks into the hot oil. Brown the chicken for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until a light golden crust forms. This browning adds significant depth of flavor to your final dish.
4. Deglaze the Pot (First Time): Pour the 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the pot. Immediately use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits that are stuck to the bottom of the pot. This deglazing process is crucial not only for incorporating all the delicious fond into your sauce but also to prevent the “Burn” warning on your Instant Pot.
5. Pressure Cook the Chicken: Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the sealing ring is correctly in place and the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) function and set the cooking time to 22 minutes on High Pressure.
6. Natural Pressure Release (First Release): Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This means letting the Instant Pot sit undisturbed for 10 minutes before manually turning the steam release valve to “Venting” to quick-release any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the hot steam.
7. Remove Chicken & Reserve Broth: Carefully open the lid away from your face. Using tongs, remove the cooked chicken drumsticks from the pot and transfer them to a plate. Next, carefully ladle or pour approximately ½ cup of the flavorful cooking broth into a separate cup and set it aside; you will use this broth shortly.
8. Sauté Aromatics: Return the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions have softened and become translucent, and the garlic is wonderfully fragrant.
9. Deglaze the Pot (Second Time): Pour the reserved ½ cup of chicken broth back into the pot. Again, use your wooden spoon or spatula to thoroughly deglaze the bottom of the pot, ensuring any new browned bits are scraped up and incorporated into the liquid.
10. Add Rice & Seasonings: Add the rinsed rice, the 1 ¾ cups of water, and additional Cuban seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste into the pot. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients, making sure the rice is evenly distributed and fully submerged in the liquid. Avoid excessive stirring once the rice is added.
11. Pressure Cook the Rice: Reseal the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the steam release valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) function and set the cooking time to 3 minutes on High Pressure.
12. Natural Pressure Release (Second Release): After the 3-minute cooking cycle for the rice is complete, allow a Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for 10 minutes. Then, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by turning the steam release valve to “Venting.”
13. Incorporate Peppers & Serve: Once all the pressure has been released, open the pot. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Add the chopped red and green bell peppers to the pot and gently stir them into the hot rice. Close the lid again (do not seal or cook) for about 5 minutes; the residual heat and steam from the rice will perfectly soften the peppers, adding a fresh bite and vibrant color without making them mushy.
14. Final Assembly: Serve the incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks over generous portions of the fragrant and flavorful Spanish rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy your homemade, authentic Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo!

Meal Prepping and Serving Suggestions for Your Arroz con Pollo

One of the many benefits of this Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo recipe is its excellent suitability for meal preparation, making your weeknights easier and more delicious.

• Storage: Allow the cooked chicken and rice to cool completely at room temperature before transferring them into airtight containers. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making them perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners. For longer storage, individual portions can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warmed through. If using a stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or water to a pan with the chicken and rice, cover, and heat gently until hot, ensuring the rice remains moist.
• Serving Enhancements:
  • Classic Presentation: Serve the tender drumsticks directly on a bed of the flavorful rice, allowing the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and parsley to shine.
  • Added Vegetables: For an even more nutritious meal, consider stirring in frozen peas, corn, or small diced carrots during the last step, allowing the residual heat to warm them through.
  • Fresh Garnish: A squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice over the finished dish can brighten all the flavors. Fresh cilantro, in addition to or instead of parsley, also adds a wonderful aromatic touch.
  • Complementary Sides: Pair your Arroz con Pollo with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, some crispy fried plantains (tostones), or a comforting bowl of black bean soup for a truly comprehensive Cuban-inspired feast.

Flavorful Variations and Expert Tips for Success

While this recipe provides an authentic and delicious foundation for Instant Pot Arroz con Pollo, don’t hesitate to personalize it with these variations and tips:

• Chicken Cut Alternatives: If drumsticks aren’t your preference, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a slightly leaner option and even quicker cooking. Adjust the initial pressure cooking time to 15-18 minutes for thighs, followed by a 10-minute natural release. Chicken breasts can also work, but be mindful not to overcook them to prevent dryness; a shorter cooking time (around 10-12 minutes) might be needed.
• Amp Up the Heat: For those who appreciate a spicy kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to your Cuban seasoning blend. Alternatively, include a finely diced jalapeño or serrano pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic for a fresh burst of heat.
• Tomato Depth: Many traditional Arroz con Pollo recipes incorporate a tomato base. To add a richer color and a more complex umami flavor, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste or a quarter cup of diced tomatoes (canned, drained) when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Herbaceous Twist: While parsley is a classic garnish, fresh cilantro offers a bright, citrusy counterpoint that beautifully complements the robust Cuban spices. Consider using both, or alternating them based on your preference.
• The Art of Deglazing: As mentioned in the instructions, deglazing the pot is paramount. Those browned bits stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot’s inner liner are packed with concentrated flavor, known as ‘fond.’ Scraping them up ensures that all that deliciousness is incorporated into your dish and, crucially, prevents the dreaded “Burn” error message from appearing.

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Nutrition Information Disclaimer

The nutritional information provided here is offered as a courtesy and should not be considered a guarantee. This data is typically calculated using third-party nutrition analysis tools such as MyFitnessPal.com. For the most precise nutritional breakdown of this recipe, we strongly recommend that you calculate the values using the exact ingredients and brands you utilize, with your preferred nutrition calculator. You bear sole responsibility for ensuring that any nutritional information you rely upon is accurate, comprehensive, and suitable for your individual dietary requirements and health goals.

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