Beer Can Chicken-Bacon Bowl

My Easy Weeknight Dinner: Beer Can Chicken-Bacon Bowl

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the never-ending to-do list, sometimes the simplest meals are the most satisfying. That's why I've become a huge fan of one-pot wonders, and this Beer Can Chicken-Bacon Bowl recipe is a perfect example. It’s surprisingly easy, incredibly flavorful, and best of all, it’s ready in under an hour—a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust it to your liking. Don’t have chipotle? Cayenne pepper works just as well. Prefer chicken breasts instead of thighs? Go for it! The key is to have fun with it and make it your own. I often add extra vegetables, like zucchini or carrots, depending on what's fresh at the market. Sometimes, I even swap the white rice for brown rice for a bit more fiber. The possibilities are endless!

This recipe is a true testament to the fact that delicious meals don't have to be complicated. It’s a perfect blend of savory and smoky flavors, with the crispy bacon adding a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken and fluffy rice. The whole family loves it, and it consistently earns rave reviews. I’ve even started packing leftovers for lunch the next day – it’s just that good! So, ditch the takeout menus and give this recipe a try. You won't regret it. Believe me, even on your busiest nights, you deserve a delicious and satisfying meal without the stress.

Beyond the Bowl: This recipe isn't just limited to weeknight dinners. It's also incredibly adaptable for game day gatherings or potlucks. Simply double or triple the recipe and you'll have a crowd-pleasing dish that's sure to be a hit. Imagine serving it with some crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices – pure perfection! The leftovers are also great for meal prep – just portion them out into containers and you've got lunches sorted for the week.

Tips and Tricks for Success:

• Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry, so make sure to follow the cooking time instructions closely. Using a meat thermometer is a great way to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Use good quality bacon: The bacon adds a significant amount of flavor to this dish, so it’s worth using a good quality product. Thick-cut bacon is my personal preference, but you can use whatever you prefer.
• Adjust the spice level to your liking: If you're not a fan of spicy food, you can reduce or omit the chipotle pepper. Alternatively, if you like things extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Make it your own: Don't be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or seasonings. This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to add your own personal touch.

I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious Beer Can Chicken-Bacon Bowl recipe as much as I do! Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you.

Step-by-step

• Add olive oil to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTE function.
• When oil gets hot, add diced bacon and cook, stirring, until crisp, 3-5 minutes.
• Add bell pepper to the pot and saute until it begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Add onion to the pot and saute until soft, 3-4 minutes.
• Add garlic, paprika, salt and ground chipotle and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes. Add the beer to the pot and deglaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Add rice and stir. Nestle the chicken into the rice mixture in one even layer, turning once to coat.
• Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL, then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
• Using the display panel select the MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK function*. Use the +/- buttons and program the Instant Pot for 10 minutes.
• When the time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
• Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and cut into bite-sized pieces. Return chicken pieces to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Serve warm topped with additional crumbled bacon.