Instant Pot Pelau Recipe

If you love Caribbean food but need dinner on the table fast, this Instant Pot chicken pelau is for you. It’s the ultimate one-pot dish—flavorful, hearty, and ready in record time. No tricky steps, no standing over the stove, just bold Trinidadian flavors made foolproof with the magic of the Instant Pot.




Pelau is a beloved Trinidadian one-pot dish that combines rice, pigeon peas, and perfectly seasoned meat into a hearty meal. This Instant Pot version delivers the same bold flavors without the fuss of caramelizing sugar, making it quick, easy, and foolproof.

This recipe is one of my go-to dishes when I need something quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. If you’re as hooked on the Instant Pot as I am, my ebook, ‘Pressha It,’ is a must-have! It’s filled with Caribbean recipes adapted for the Instant Pot, making your favorite dishes faster and easier without losing the traditional flavors we all love. Check it out here!

What is Pelau?

Pelau is a staple in Trinidadian cuisine—a savory dish perfect for beach limes, family gatherings, and Carnival fetes. Traditionally, it involves caramelizing sugar for that signature brown color as showed how to do in my traditional pelau recipe, but this Instant Pot version simplifies the process. No need to hover over the stove or worry about burning the sugar!

Why Use the Instant Pot for Pelau?

• Time-Saving: No tricky steps like browning sugar—just dump, stir, and cook.
• Foolproof: Combine everything, seal the lid, and let the Instant Pot do the work.
• Flavorful Results: Locks in all the authentic Caribbean seasonings under pressure.

If you’re looking for more ways to use your Instant Pot, my ‘Pressha It’ ebook offers even more classic Caribbean recipes made quicker and easier. Grab your copy here!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No need to caramelize sugar—making it foolproof.
• One-pot cooking means minimal cleanup.
• Ready in record time without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken: Bone-in for maximum flavor, or boneless for a quicker cook.
• Rice: Long-grain or parboiled works best to avoid mushiness.
• Pigeon peas: Fresh, frozen, or canned (drained and rinsed).
• Aromatics: Garlic, onion, and pimento peppers for that rich flavor.
• Seasonings: Green seasoning, black pepper, salt, and fresh thyme.

Substitution Tip: No pigeon peas? Swap them with black-eyed peas or kidney beans.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Pelau

1. Sauté the Chicken:
   Turn your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Season and brown the chicken for a richer flavor.
2. Add Ingredients:
   Stir in rice, pigeon peas, aromatics, and seasonings. Add water or broth.
3. Pressure Cook:
   Seal the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on “Pressure Cook” mode for 15 minutes.
4. Quick Release & Fluff:
   Carefully release the pressure, fluff the rice, and serve.

Pro Tip: Always ensure your valve is set to Sealing before starting to pressure cook.


    

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken pelau with:

• Fresh coleslaw
• Sliced zaboca (avocado)
• A refreshing glass of homemade mauby

Reheating and Storage Instructions

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover chicken pelau in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, transfer the cooled pelau to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to press out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Add a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist, then heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place pelau in a non-stick skillet or saucepan, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Instant Pot: Use the “Sauté” function to reheat. Add a small amount of water or broth and stir gently to prevent sticking.

Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, let the pelau thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Discover More Caribbean Instant Pot Recipes!

If you love this Instant Pot pelau, you’ll love my ebook, ‘Pressha It,’ packed with Caribbean recipes you can make in less time using your pressure cooker. From savory stews to one-pot classics like this pelau, it’s your guide to flavorful, foolproof meals that let your Instant Pot do all the work.

Grab your copy of ‘Pressha It’ today and bring the taste of the Caribbean to your kitchen!





This Instant Pot chicken pelau simplifies one of Trinidad’s most iconic dishes into an easy, no-stress recipe. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a quick weeknight meal, or a potluck, this pelau delivers every time.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it, leave a comment below, and check out my ‘Pressha It’ ebook for even more quick and delicious Caribbean meals.