Instant Pot Sesame Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is an incredible dish that will impress your family and friends with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. This dish combines tender chicken pieces with a savory sesame glaze that has just the right amount of sweetness. The convenience of using an Instant Pot means you can whip up this delightful meal in a fraction of the time it would normally take, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests knocking at your door. As you cook your sesame chicken, the fragrant aromas will fill your kitchen, creating a mouthwatering atmosphere. If you’ve been searching for a quick yet satisfying recipe to add to your dinner rotation, this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is just what you need. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring that even novice cooks can create an amazing meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Cooking with an Instant Pot allows for perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy and flavorful. The secret lies in the pressure cooking method, which locks in moisture and flavor, making every bite of this sesame chicken an irresistible treat. Whether served over rice or alongside steamed broccoli, this dish is versatile and will bring a smile to everyone’s face. Let’s dive into what makes Instant Pot Sesame Chicken an incredible choice for your next meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is not just another dinner option; it’s a favorite among many for several compelling reasons:
- Quick and Easy – The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, making it easy to prepare dinner in about 30 minutes.
- Flavorful and Savory – The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey creates an irresistible glaze that your family will love.
- Less Cleanup – Cooking in one pot means you’ll spend less time washing dishes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Healthy Twist – This recipe can be adapted for healthier eating, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and low-sodium sauces.
- Family-Friendly – The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
- Versatile Pairings – Serve it with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables to cater to varying tastes and dietary needs.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparation and cooking time for Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is minimal, making it a fantastic option for anyone short on time. Here’s a breakdown of the timing involved:- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Natural Pressure Release Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is straightforward and can be achieved by following these simple steps:- Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Sauté Chicken: Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add the chicken pieces and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the pot. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Seal & Cook: Close the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the vent is sealed. Set to “Manual” high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Natural Release: After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the chicken to thicken the sauce; cook on “Sauté” for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Stir in the sesame seeds and mix well.
- Garnish: Serve the sesame chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions.
How to Serve
To elevate your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken experience, consider the following serving suggestions:- Plating: Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, letting the sauce soak in for added flavor.
- Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a side of sautéed broccoli, steamed green beans, or a simple salad to create a balanced meal.
- Flavor Enhancements: Offer additional sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little extra flavor, or try serving it with hoisin sauce for added depth.
- Meal Prep Options: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Additional Tips
- Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
- Marinate for Extra Taste: Letting the chicken marinate in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking enhances the flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the dish; avoid using powdered versions for the best taste.
- Adjust Heat Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
Recipe Variation
Get creative with your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken! Here are some variations you can try:- Orange Sesame Chicken: Substitute honey with orange juice and zest for a fresh citrus twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, and follow the same cooking instructions for a vegetarian-friendly meal.
- Pineapple Addition: Add chunks of pineapple to the sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor fusion.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftover Instant Pot Sesame Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s stored in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Special Equipment
Prepare this delicious meal with the following essential kitchen tools:- Instant Pot
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs or a spatula for stirring
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time to around 15 minutes to ensure it’s cooked through.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari in place of soy sauce, ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Can the sauce be thickened without cornstarch?
Yes! You can use arrowroot powder or a gluten-free flour as a thickener instead of cornstarch.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Steamed vegetables, fried rice, or a simple cucumber salad are great choices to complement the flavors of the sesame chicken.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the refrigerator, and cook them together in the Instant Pot when ready to serve.