![](https://cdn.myhealthteams.com/graphic/6697d83c593d0022ad3820a4/woriginal/myRAteam_Instant-Pot-Dinners_1200x630-1054467d74b8e1a7ad25c39d804a003f.webp?1721227322)
Have you tried cooking with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but symptoms like joint pain got in the way? When your RA symptoms act up but you want to prepare your own meals, using a multicooker or instant pot may be a good option. These appliances allow sauteing, pressure cooking, and slow cooking in the same device, making it easier on your hands and joints.
Here are three recipe suggestions for anti-inflammatory meals using a multicooker.
1. Slow-Cooked Chicken and Rice
When you need something simple and tasty but also good for your body, this option that Rheumatoid Arthritis Warrior calls The Easiest Chicken Recipe Ever might hit the spot.
The Easiest Chicken Recipe Ever Servings: 2 | 6-8 hours ![](https://cdn.myhealthteams.com/graphic/64bae11dfe9c0ee5ffc75372/woriginal/Btn_Download_Recipe-6e36e1d6e40a2112e1f63a29a2965aa4.webp?1689968924) |
Ingredients - 1 packet (1.25 ounces) dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 jar (15.5 ounces) salsa (any kind)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups long-grain white rice (prepared)
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Instructions - Coat the multicooker’s inner pot with nonstick spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the pot so they overlap as little as possible, and sprinkle with the dressing. Spread the salsa evenly over the chicken.
- Set the multicooker to its slow cooker setting. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
- Halfway through, check to see if the chicken is too dry. Add about 1/2 cup water if needed.
- About 15 or 20 minutes before serving, add the cooked rice. Continue simmering until the rice is warm.
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Recipe Note For a meatless version, use black beans or garbanzo beans instead of chicken. |
2. A Quick Chili Choice
The Arthritis Foundation suggests Almost Instant Vegetarian Chili as a way to get dinner on the table quickly and with minimal stress on your joints. It’s a great option if you’re craving a little spiciness.
Almost-Instant Vegetarian Chili Servings: 8 | 30 min ![](https://cdn.myhealthteams.com/graphic/64bae11dfe9c0ee5ffc75372/woriginal/Btn_Download_Recipe-6e36e1d6e40a2112e1f63a29a2965aa4.webp?1689968924) |
Ingredients - 2 cans (15 ounces each) kidney, black, and/or pinto beans (low-sodium is fine)
- 1 can (14 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 2 cups frozen bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup chopped onion, either fresh or frozen
- 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons chili powder (or to taste)
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Instructions - Place all the ingredients in the multicooker’s inner pot and stir until mixed.
- Seal the multicooker and set to cook for 30 minutes on the “beans/chili” or “soup” setting.
- When the timer goes off, turn the vent to release the pressure. Wait 1 minute or until the pressure is fully released.
- Stir the chili, and season to taste. Serve with toppings such as shredded cheese, diced green onions, or crackers.
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Recipe Note For a thicker chili, drain the beans before adding. You can add cooked ground beef or diced chicken if you prefer a meat version. |
3. Light and Fresh Pasta
When you want something light and easy to eat but still hearty enough to fill you up, The Arthritis Foundation’s Penne Pasta With Chicken, Tomatoes, Spinach, and Herbs is a delicious option.
Penne With Chicken, Tomatoes, Spinach, and Herbs Servings: 6 | 10 min ![](https://cdn.myhealthteams.com/graphic/64bae11dfe9c0ee5ffc75372/woriginal/Btn_Download_Recipe-6e36e1d6e40a2112e1f63a29a2965aa4.webp?1689968924) |
Ingredients - 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
- Black pepper, as desired
- 1 pound dried penne or similar pasta, such as elbow macaroni
- 2 cups baby spinach (packed)
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes with basil
- 1 cup water
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Instructions - Add the olive oil and grape or cherry tomatoes to the multicooker’s inner pot and stir.
- Add the chicken, crumbling the meat. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, salt, chili flakes, and black pepper.
- Layer with the pasta, spinach, and crushed tomatoes. Pour the water over the top.
- Seal the multicooker. Set to “pressure cook” on low for 4 minutes.
- When cooking is done, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. Next, turn the vent to release the rest of the pressure and then wait for 1 minute.
- Stir to combine the ingredients. Serve with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
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Recipe Note For a vegetarian version, substitute black beans or garbanzo beans for the chicken. |
Talk With Others Who Understand
On myRAteam, the social network for people with rheumatoid arthritis and their loved ones, more than 206,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with rheumatoid arthritis.
Are you looking for recipes that are easy to make when living with RA? What are your go-to meals that don’t worsen your RA joint pain? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.
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