Instant Pot Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Peas | Quick & Easy
Last updated on March 12, 2026 by Jessica Healey
Originally published on December 18, 2024
A Simple, Flavorful Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Peas
I’ll admit it—I love rice. Like, really love rice. From bold, spice-filled biryanis to comforting, sticky sushi rice, I’ve explored rice dishes from all over the world (a perfect excuse to gush about my current spice obsession—RawSpiceBar—but more on that in a second).
But sometimes, I just want something simple yet elevated. A dish that comes together quickly, doesn’t require me to measure spice upon spice upon spice, and uses ingredients I already have on hand. Enter this Instant Pot Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Peas—a recipe I can make in minutes in the pressure cooker and eat off all week long.
Now, full disclosure: my family doesn’t like peas (tragic, I know). So this dish? It’s all mine, and I’m not even mad about it. The peas add just the right sweetness, and let’s be honest, it feels good to know I’m getting my greens in every bite.
It reheats beautifully, makes for an easy, cozy lunch, and has a buttery, nutty flavor thanks to the toasted orzo.
And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous or want to switch up the flavors, try adding a sprinkle of RawSpiceBar’s blends to take this dish around the world—think Sazón for bold, complex Latin American flavors, or Spanish Paella for the vibrant taste of Spain at home.
If you’ve been looking for a quick, no-fuss side dish—or a light vegetarian meal prep option—this recipe will become your new favorite.
Why I Love This Rice Pilaf
Rice is my love language. I could eat it every day, and this recipe combines everything I adore: buttery, nutty orzo, perfectly fluffy rice, and sweet peas for that little burst of flavor and nutrition. The best part? It’s simple, elevated, and incredibly fast. No long lists of spices, no fuss—just pantry staples coming together in minutes.
This dish is my go-to for easy lunches throughout the week. While my family (tragically) isn’t on board with peas, I’m happy to call this one all mine!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Peas
Here’s everything you need (and probably already have in your kitchen):
- Butter – Adds a rich, delicious base.
- Onion – A small one, finely diced.
- Orzo – Toasted for that nutty flavor.
- White Rice – Basmati or Jasmine works best.
- Chicken Stock – Grass-fed or homemade for richer flavor.
- Garlic Powder, Salt, White Pepper, Smoked Paprika – Just a few simple spices for a big flavor boost.
- Frozen Peas – Sweet, nutritious, and so easy to toss in.
- Parsley – Dried or fresh, for a little herby brightness.
How to Make Simple Pressure Cooker Rice Pilaf
This recipe could not be easier:
- Melt butter and sauté the onion.
- Toast the orzo until it’s golden and nutty.
- Add rice, stock, and spices, then stir in the peas.
- Pressure cook on high for 3 minutes, let the pressure naturally release, and fluff with a fork.
- Finish with parsley, and enjoy!
Why Peas? (And What If You Don’t Love Them)
I know peas can be polarizing, but hear me out—they’re sweet, nutritious, and add a pop of color that makes this dish feel vibrant and fresh.
Don’t love peas? No problem! Swap them out for:
- Finely diced carrots
- Chopped green beans
- Sweet corn
- Spinach (stirred in at the end)
Or leave them out entirely. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s endlessly adaptable.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This rice pilaf is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual portions for about 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of water or stock if the rice looks dry.
It reheats beautifully and tastes just as good as the day you made it—perfect for easy, satisfying lunches all week.
Simple Variations to Elevate This Dish
While this rice pilaf is delicious as-is, you can easily switch things up:
- Add a pinch of turmeric for a golden, earthy twist.
- Toss in a some RawSpiceBar’s Magic Mediterranean for a fresh, herbal flavor.
- Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
- Use vegetable stock to keep it vegetarian.
Pairings for Instant Pot Rice Pilaf
This dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs – the flavors meld perfectly!
- Pan-seared salmon.
- Lemon-Herb Grilled Chicken Recipe – An easy, flavorful grilled recipe.
- Roasted veggies like zucchini, cauliflower, or asparagus.
- A crisp, green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Serve it alongside your favorite main course or make it the star of a simple vegetarian meal.
Instant Pot Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Peas
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1/4 Cup Butter
- 1 Small Onion – Or more, if you like!
- 1/3 Cup Orzo
- 1 Cup White Rice – I use Basmati or Jasmine
- 2 Cups Chicken Stock (or broth) – Grass-fed is best
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 3/4 Teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1/8 Teaspoon White Pepper – or 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1 Cup Sweet Peas – I use frozen organic peas
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Parsley – If using fresh use 1 Tbsp.
Instructions
- Melt Butter & Sauté Onion – Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Melt the butter and add the diced onion. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Orzo – Add the orzo and continue sautéing for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until the orzo is golden brown
- Sauté Rice – Add the rice and sauté for 1 minute to coat the grains.
- Add Stock and Spices – Pour in the chicken stock. Add the garlic powder, sea salt, white pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
- Add Peas – Stir in the frozen peas.
- Pressure Cook – Secure the Instant Pot lid and turn the valve to the “Sealing” position. Pressure cook on high for 3 minutes.
- Natural Release – Once done, turn off the “Keep Warm” function to prevent sticking. Let the pressure naturally release. Once the pin drops, carefully remove the lid.
- Add Parsley – If you are adding parsley, now is the time. Fluff and serve!
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This recipe was inspired by Matt Freund’s Instant Pot Rice Pilaf with Orzo. I made a few changes—like adding sweet peas, sautéed onion, and white pepper—to make it even heartier and perfect for my weekly meal prep!
Admin here – Of course I love this recipe! Honestly, I make it SO often and it never goes to waste. Reheats wonderfully. This is a great introductory recipe for new-ish Instant Pot users, too. And yay for eating our peas! 😉