Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe

Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Delight

If you’re searching for a meal that’s both quick to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken recipe. In just 13 minutes, you can have a savory, succulent dish ready to serve, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious meal in no time!

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 3 minutes

Saute Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 13 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders or skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

To get started, select the sauté function on your Instant Pot and add the olive oil. While the pot heats up, coat the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a small bowl. This will help thicken the sauce later on and give the chicken a nice texture.

Once the Instant Pot is ready, add the coated chicken and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, turning the chicken pieces occasionally to ensure they brown evenly. This step is crucial as the caramelization of the chicken adds depth and richness to the flavor.

2. Make the Sauce

While the chicken is browning, prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, honey, and water. Add sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. Stir until everything is well combined. The honey adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the salty soy sauce and tangy ketchup, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

3. Pressure Cook

Once the chicken has a beautiful golden brown color, pour the sauce over it. Lock the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to the sealing position, and choose the Manual or Pressure Cook setting on High Pressure. Set the timer for 3 minutes.

When the timer goes off, perform a Quick Pressure Release. This means carefully turning the valve to release the steam quickly, which keeps the chicken moist and tender.

4. Thicken the Sauce

After the pressure is released, open the lid and stir in the sesame oil and honey. These ingredients will enhance the sauce’s flavor and add a glossy finish. Switch the Instant Pot back to the sauté function. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this slurry into the chicken and sauce mixture. Continue to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your liking.

5. Serve

Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra burst of freshness and flavor. Serve the sesame chicken over Jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, brown rice, or noodles. We recommend this pork fried rice.

This dish pairs wonderfully with sides such as pan-fried dumplings or a crisp cucumber salad, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.

Expert Tips

• Preparation is Key: With this recipe moving quickly, having all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking will make the process smooth and efficient.
• Perfect Sauté: Ensure the chicken gets a golden brown color on all sides for the best flavor and texture.
• Monitor Sauce Thickness: Keep a close eye on the sauce as it simmers. Stir continuously to prevent burning or sticking. Avoid leaving the Instant Pot unattended during this step.
• Batch Cook Rice: Prepare a large batch of rice using your Instant Pot or rice cooker. Freeze portions for quick and easy meals later.
• Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the Instant Pot for added nutrition and color.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference. Omit for a milder dish or add more for extra heat.
• Freezer-Friendly: This chicken dish freezes well, making it a convenient option for busy days. Store extra portions in airtight containers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen chicken?

While fresh chicken is ideal, you can use frozen chicken. Adjust the cooking time as frozen chicken will take longer to cook through. Make sure to cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Can I substitute the honey?

Yes, maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar can replace honey. Each sweetener will slightly alter the flavor but will still be delicious.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Increase red pepper flakes for more heat or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can enhance the dish’s flavor and nutritional value. Simply toss them into the Instant Pot with the chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

If the sauce is thinner than desired, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the sauce while simmering until it thickens.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and provide a richer flavor. They stay moist during cooking and add a slightly different texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

Certainly! Follow the conventional stovetop method to achieve similar results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.