Instant Pot Sesame Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe You Must Try
Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is an amazing dish that infuses rich flavors and textures, making every bite a delight. This quick and easy recipe showcases tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory sauce, mingling sesame oil, soy sauce, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or to impress your guests on special occasions, this dish transforms the classic flavors of sesame chicken into a streamlined meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Cooking with an Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken is succulent. If you’ve ever craved delivery or takeout, you’ll soon realize that making this dish at home is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. Imagine the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen as this dish cooks to perfection, with a sauce that perfectly balances sweetness and just a touch of heat. What’s more? You’ll learn to whip up this flavorful dish effortlessly. Using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, and following straightforward steps, you’ll impress your family and friends. So whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a novice, let’s dive into the world of Instant Pot Sesame Chicken and uncover why this recipe deserves a place in your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are numerous reasons why Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is bound to become a favorite in your household:
- Quick Preparation – This recipe takes under 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy nights!
- Flavor Explosion – The combination of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering taste that rivals takeout.
- Healthier Alternative – You control the ingredients, allowing for a healthier version of your favorite dish.
- One-Pot Wonder – Easy cleanup is a plus, with everything cooked in your Instant Pot.
- Versatile serving options – This dish pairs well with rice, noodles, or a veggie stir-fry, making it adaptable for your preferences.
- Family-Friendly – The sweetness of the sauce appeals to both kids and adults.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is not only efficient but easy to track with the following time breakdown:- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- NPR (Natural Pressure Release): 10 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating the ultimate Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and chop the garlic, ginger, and green onions.
- Add Chicken to Instant Pot: Place the chicken thighs into the inner pot of the Instant Pot.
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Stir until well mixed, then pour over the chicken.
- Close the Lid: Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the steam release valve is in the sealed position.
- Set Cooking Time: Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function, setting the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
- Cook: Allow the Instant Pot to build pressure and cook the chicken. It will take approximately 10 minutes.
- Natural Release: After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare Sauce Thickener: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Add Thickener: Open the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Garnish: Once the sauce has thickened, serve the chicken with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
How to Serve
Serving Instant Pot Sesame Chicken can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some tips:- Rice or Noodles: Serve the chicken over steamed white rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Pair with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a balanced meal.
- Family Style: Serve the chicken in a large bowl with the sauce, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Garnish: Presentation matters! Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
- Flavorful Accompaniments: Offer soy sauce, chili oil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for those who enjoy a kick.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will elevate the flavor of your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken significantly. Don’t overlook this step.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for extra kick.
- Marinate the Chicken: For even deeper flavors, marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve Immediately: While the dish can be stored, the chicken is best enjoyed fresh to maintain its tenderness.
- Pair with Fresh Greens: A side salad with a light sesame dressing complements the meal wonderfully.
Recipe Variation
Switching things up can provide a new twist to your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken. Here are some exciting variations:- Add Broccoli: Incorporate fresh or frozen broccoli to the dish for a nutritious boost. It adds color and complements the flavors well.
- Swap Proteins: Experiment with chicken breast, tofu, or shrimp as an alternative protein for different textures.
- Sesame Soy Tofu: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with firm tofu, using the same cooking process for a delicious alternative.
- Citrus Kick: Include a splash of orange juice or zest to give the sauce a refreshing citrus note.
- Teriyaki Twist: Substitute soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweet-savory variation that’s equally delightful.
Freezing and Storage
Proper storage ensures that your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken remains delicious for later meals.- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays good for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To do this, allow it to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Special Equipment
You don’t need much to create this delightful dish, but a few tools can make it easier:- Instant Pot: The star of the show, perfect for pressure cooking and saving time.
- Mixing Bowls: For mixing the sauce ingredients and preparing the cornstarch slurry.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will help ensure the best flavor.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To stir the sauce and combination of ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may require less cooking time, so monitor closely.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can substitute with a different oil, like vegetable oil, but it won’t have the same distinct flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, doubling is feasible, but you might need to cook in batches to maintain the right pressure cooking conditions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute.
Can I use store-bought sesame sauce instead?
While convenient, homemade offers better flavor control; however, store-bought can work in a pinch.