Rice Pilaf with Orzo: Instant Pot & Stovetop Recipe

If there’s one side dish I keep coming back to, it’s rice pilaf. But not just any rice pilaf—I’m talking about a fluffy, flavorful pilaf made in the Instant Pot with that irresistible addition of orzo. The best part? It’s simple, quick, and you can also make it on the stovetop if you haven’t jumped on the Instant Pot bandwagon yet.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have the time to babysit the stove. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to regular steamed rice again. Plus, that toasted orzo? Fancy enough to make your dinner guests think you’ve been cooking all day.

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What Is Rice Pilaf?

Rice pilaf is a flavorful dish where rice is cooked in a seasoned broth, often with additional ingredients like orzo, vegetables, or spices. The key difference between pilaf and regular rice is that the grains are usually sautéed in butter or oil before adding the liquid, which enhances the flavor and helps keep the rice fluffy and separate. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals, from meats to vegetarian dishes, making it a go-to in many kitchens.

Why This Instant Pot Rice Pilaf is a Game-Changer

• Quick and fuss-free: The Instant Pot does all the work, and it’s ready in under 40 minutes.
• Toasted orzo: This is the little detail that takes this pilaf to the next level.
• Versatile: Perfect with chicken, beef, or even on its own as a side dish.
• Made from pantry staples: No fancy ingredients here—just butter, rice, broth, and some seasonings you likely already have.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Rice Pilaf

• 1/4 Cup Butter
• 1/3 Cup Orzo
• 1 Cup Basmati Rice (or any long-grain rice)
• 2 Cups Chicken Broth (vegetable broth works too)
• 1 tsp. Garlic Powder
• 3/4 tsp. Sea Salt
• 1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
• 1/4 tsp. Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp. Smoked Paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1 tsp. Dried Parsley (or 1 Tbsp. fresh parsley)

(Note: You can use regular paprika if you don’t have smoked paprika. And if you want a vegetarian option, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.)

How to Make Instant Pot Rice Pilaf

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Turn your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the butter. Let it melt, swirling it to coat the bottom evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Orzo

Add the orzo to the melted butter and stir frequently for about 3–4 minutes until it’s golden brown.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Add the basmati rice and stir for another minute. The rice will start to become slightly translucent.

Step 4: Add Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the rice and orzo are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add Seasonings

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Pressure Cook the Rice

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the SEAL position. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Turn off the “Keep Warm” function and allow the pressure to naturally release, which will take about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Stir in Parsley

Once the pressure has fully released, remove the lid and stir in the dried parsley. Let the rice sit for a few minutes before serving.

Stovetop Method for Rice Pilaf

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, no worries—you can still enjoy this delicious rice pilaf. Follow these simple stovetop instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the orzo and cook until lightly browned, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in the rice and cook for another minute until the grains turn translucent.
4. Pour in the broth and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.
6. Stir in the parsley and fluff with a fork before serving.

Variations for Instant Pot Rice Pilaf

• Brown Rice Pilaf: Use brown rice instead of white. Increase cooking time to 22 minutes with a natural release.
• Vegetarian Rice Pilaf: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and throw in veggies like peas or carrots for extra flavor.
• Spiced Rice Pilaf: Add cumin, turmeric, or saffron for a more exotic flavor profile.
• Herbed Rice Pilaf: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or dill at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Substitute wild rice and cook for 25 minutes on high pressure for a more rustic variation.

Expert Tips for Perfect Rice Pilaf

• Rinse the Rice: This helps remove excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
• Natural Release: Let the pressure naturally release for the best texture.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or even dill can brighten up the final dish.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 6 servings for the entire recipe)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 559mg (based on regular broth and added salt)
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Potassium: 80mg
• Calcium: 20mg
• Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the brands and ingredients you use.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

Allow the rice pilaf to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheating on the Stovetop:

1. Place the pilaf in a pan and add a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
2. Heat on medium, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Reheating in the Microwave:

1. Transfer the rice pilaf to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add a tablespoon of broth or water to keep the rice moist.
3. Cover and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed.

1. Reheating in the Instant Pot:

1. Place the pilaf back into the Instant Pot.
2. Add 1/2 cup of broth.
3. Use the steam function and set the timer for 12–15 minutes until heated through.

Pairings and Related Recipes

• • Brown Basmati Rice in the Instant Pot
• • One Pan Cajun Chicken
• • Instant Pot Mussels
• • 10 Cheap Instant Pot Recipes Under $10

There you have it—an easy, flavorful rice pilaf that you can make either in your Instant Pot or on the stovetop! Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or serving it as a side at your next family gathering, this rice pilaf is guaranteed to impress. Plus, the versatility of this dish means you can switch it up with the variations to suit your taste. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments!

Equipment and Essentials

Below is what I used to create this recipe. I will link to these items. Yes, some of these are affiliate links but they are no cost to you.

Instant Pot Duo Plus 6 Quart 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker
Whole Foods Market, Organic Orzo
365 by WFM, Rice Indian Basmati White Organic