Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself, then look no further than this Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken. With tender pieces of chicken thigh coated in a sweet and savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process speedy while ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a household favorite.
The Upside of Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken
One of the best things about making Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken is the ease and convenience it brings to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and the push of a button, you can create a dish bursting with flavor. The combination of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table. Plus, the Instant Pot locks in moisture, ensuring that your chicken is always tender and juicy. In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready to serve.
What’s in the Bowl
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable:
- Instant Pot: The star of the show that will help you cook your chicken to perfection.
- Cutting Board: For chopping and preparing your chicken and vegetables.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best flavor balance.
- Whisk: Ideal for mixing the cornstarch and water to create a smooth sauce.
- Serving Spoon: For plating and serving your delicious meal.
Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken in Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-2 inch pieces. This size will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Add the chopped chicken thighs to the pot, stirring to coat the chicken with the garlic and ginger mixture. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, just until the chicken begins to brown.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, rice vinegar, water, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
Step 5: Cook Under Pressure
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s sealed properly. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to create a slurry. Once the pressure is released, open the Instant Pot and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Select the “Sauté” function again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Stir in the sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish. Your Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken is now ready to serve! Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
International Equivalents
If you’re cooking in a different country or following different measurement systems, here are some helpful conversions:
- 2 lbs = approximately 900 grams
- 1/4 cup = approximately 60 milliliters
- 1 tablespoon = approximately 15 milliliters
- 1/3 cup = approximately 80 milliliters
- 1/2 cup = approximately 120 milliliters
What Could Go Wrong
While this recipe is straightforward, a few things can go awry:
- Burning the Garlic: If the garlic burns during the sautéing step, it can give the dish a bitter flavor. Keep an eye on it and stir frequently.
- Too Much Liquid: If you accidentally add too much liquid, the sauce may not thicken properly. Adjust the cornstarch slurry accordingly.
- Undercooked Chicken: Ensure that the chicken is cut into uniform sizes to cook evenly. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Too Thick Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of water until you reach your desired consistency.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
Preparing meals ahead of time can save you a lot of stress during busy weeks. Here are some tips for making Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken in advance:
- Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce ingredients for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
- Store Leftovers: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Quick Q&A
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide more flavor and moisture, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can also be used. Just be mindful of their cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste or add some sriracha or chili garlic sauce for an extra kick.
What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken goes wonderfully with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it with noodles for a heartier meal.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes! This recipe works well with pork, tofu, or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose.
What to Make After This
Once you’ve enjoyed your Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken, consider trying these delightful recipes:
- Instant Pot Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala
- Vegan Buddha Bowl
- Instant Pot Beef Stew
That’s a Wrap
Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavor profile and tender chicken, it’s bound to impress everyone at your table. The ease of using the Instant Pot means you can enjoy a gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and prepare to indulge in this delectable dish. Enjoy every sweet and savory bite, and don’t forget to share your culinary triumphs with family and friends!
Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting your 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-2 inch pieces. This size will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Once hot, add 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. When the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Add the chopped chicken thighs to the pot, stirring to coat the chicken with the garlic and ginger mixture. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, just until the chicken begins to brown.
- In a separate bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, rice vinegar, water, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring it’s sealed properly. Set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of water with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to create a slurry. Once the pressure is released, open the Instant Pot and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Select the "Sauté" function again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Stir in the sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish. Your Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken is now ready to serve! Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce ingredients for even more flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months.
