Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Want fried rice without standing over a hot pan? This Instant Pot Chicken Fried Rice gives you the same flavor as takeout but it’s faster, uses pantry ingredients, and cooks everything in one pot. Perfect for busy nights or using up leftover rice and chicken.

No fancy skills needed. Just chop, toss, pressure cook, and stir-fry everything right in the Instant Pot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick, one-pot meal
• Uses cooked rice — great for leftovers
• Customizable with your favorite veggies
• Cheaper and healthier than takeout
• Can be made with raw or cooked chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1.5 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice (cold, day-old is best)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1 cup chicken breast or thighs, diced (raw or cooked)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Optional: green onions, sriracha, or extra soy sauce for topping

How to Make Chicken Fried Rice in the Instant Pot

Step 1 – Sauté Chicken & Aromatics

Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add sesame oil, then diced chicken, onions, and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the chicken starts to brown (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet).

Step 2 – Add Veggies

Stir in frozen mixed vegetables. Sauté for another minute.

Step 3 – Add Cooked Rice

Break up any clumps and stir the cold, cooked rice into the pot. Cook for 1 minute so everything mixes evenly.

Step 4 – Push Rice to the Side, Cook Eggs

Push the rice to one side. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble until mostly cooked. Stir everything together.

Step 5 – Add Soy Sauce & Seasonings

Pour in soy sauce and black pepper. Stir well. Cook for 1–2 more minutes to heat through. Turn off Sauté mode and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Instant Pot Fried Rice

• Cold, leftover rice works best — fresh rice can turn mushy
• Use low-sodium soy sauce so you can adjust saltiness
• Dice chicken small so it cooks quickly during sauté
• Want it spicy? Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the soy sauce
• Don’t overcook the eggs — stir them in just until set

Variations

• Instant Pot Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice: Add cooked shrimp at the end
• Pineapple Fried Rice: Stir in pineapple chunks for sweet-savory flavor
• Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce
• Healthy Option: Use brown rice and extra veggies

More recipes:

Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Recipes

Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes (Creamy & No Drain!)

FAQ

Can I use raw rice in this recipe?

No — use pre-cooked rice. Raw rice will absorb moisture and won’t fry properly.

Can I make this with frozen chicken?

Thaw the chicken or cook it separately before adding it to the sauté step. Frozen chunks won’t brown properly.

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?

Yes — just add it during Step 3 with the rice, since it’s already cooked.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely! It reheats well and keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.