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Savory Honey Sesame Instant Pot Chicken

Savory Honey Sesame Instant Pot Chicken

Experience a flavor explosion with this Savory Honey Sesame Instant Pot Chicken, combining sweet honey and savory soy sauce for a delicious weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Cozy Dinners
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs boneless and skinless chicken thighs these thighs stay juicy and absorb the sweet-salty flavors beautifully.
  • Salt essential for enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
  • Ground black pepper adds a subtle depth of flavor to balance the sweetness.
For the Sauce
  • 1.5 tablespoons oil necessary for sautéing and helping the garlic become fragrant.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic essence.
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth keeps the chicken moist while adding savory depth.
  • 2.5 tablespoons honey provides the signature sweetness that complements the savory elements.
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce brings a rich umami flavor, elevating the dish.
  • 0.5 teaspoon dark soy sauce adds a hint of richness and color to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar balances the sweetness with a touch of tang.
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha introduces a mild heat that enhances the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil gives a nutty aroma and taste that ties everything together.
For Thickening
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch helps achieve that perfect sauce consistency.
For Garnishing
  • 1 teaspoon toasted white sesame adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
  • 1 tablespoon scallion, chopped brings a fresh touch and bright color to the dish.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot

Method
 

How to Make Savory Honey Sesame Instant Pot Chicken
  1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and ground black pepper, ensuring every piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
  2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the oil. Let it heat up until shimmering, which only takes a minute or two.
  3. Sauté the minced garlic in the hot oil until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to infuse the oil with its warm, inviting aroma.
  4. Add the seasoned chicken thighs, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until browned on one side to create a lovely sear.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Sriracha, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all the delicious flavors.
  6. Close the Instant Pot lid tightly and make sure the steam release valve is sealed for optimal pressure cooking.
  7. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Enjoy the aroma as it fills your kitchen, tempting everyone nearby!
  8. Release the pressure quickly by turning the steam release valve. Wait until the valve drops before opening the lid.
  9. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate while you prepare the sauce.
  10. Mix cornstarch with a bit of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the remaining sauce in the pot for thickening.
  11. Cook the sauce by setting the Instant Pot back to sauté mode, stirring regularly until it thickens to the desired consistency.
  12. Serve the chicken drizzled with the thickened sauce, garnished with toasted sesame and chopped scallion for that perfect finishing touch.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

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