Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the spices.
2. Season the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and paprika. Toss to coat the chicken thoroughly in the spices, making sure each piece is well seasoned.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Set Up the Instant Pot: Turn the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and let it heat up. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
2. Sear the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the Instant Pot. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s lightly browned. This helps lock in the flavors and adds depth to the dish. You don’t need to cook the chicken all the way through, as it will finish cooking under pressure. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the Instant Pot. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquid

1. Add the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming too sticky. Add the rinsed rice to the Instant Pot, stirring well to coat it in the remaining oil and vegetables.
2. Add the Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice: Pour in the chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, stirring to combine. The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that’s essential to Greek cuisine. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, as these add extra flavor and prevent the Instant Pot from giving a “burn” warning.
3. Return the Chicken to the Pot: Place the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. Do not stir, as this helps the rice cook evenly without sticking.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken and Rice

1. Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position.
2. Set the Cooking Time: Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function, set to high pressure, and set the timer for 8 minutes. It will take a few minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure before the timer starts.
3. Natural Pressure Release: When the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. This ensures the rice finishes cooking gently and prevents it from becoming mushy. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
4. Open the Lid: Once the pressure has been fully released, open the lid and give the chicken and rice a gentle stir to mix everything together. The rice should be fluffy, and the chicken should be tender.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches and Serve

1. Add Optional Ingredients: If using, add the halved kalamata olives and stir them into the chicken and rice for a briny, salty flavor that complements the Greek-inspired spices.
2. Garnish with Feta and Herbs: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the Greek chicken and rice into bowls, garnish with extra lemon wedges if desired, and enjoy!