If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken recipe is the perfect choice! Bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, this dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sesame sauce. It’s a delightful option for busy weeknights and is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 3 green onions, chopped
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes in the Instant Pot.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 30g protein. This is based on typical ingredient values and may vary depending on specific brands used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
3. Place the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
6. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
7. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch to quick release.
8. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
9. Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir in the slurry.
10. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
11. Serve the chicken topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option. Additionally, maple syrup can be substituted for honey if desired.
Serving and Pairings
This sesame chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the garnishes.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to prevent dryness.
– Make sure the Instant Pot is sealed properly before cooking.
– Don’t skip the natural release step for better texture.
– Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey.
– Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more vibrant flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken for an hour for deeper flavor.
– Garnish with extra sesame seeds for presentation.
– Serve with steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
– Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time to 15-20 minutes.
What can I serve with sesame chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and cook it when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can substitute with a neutral oil, but the flavor will be different.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Sesame Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious meal in a fraction of the time. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful result!
Instant Pot Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 3 green onions chopped
Instructions
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
- Place the chicken in the Instant Pot.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
- Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch to quick release.
- Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir in the slurry.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
