Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ginger (minced); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Sesame seeds for garnish; Green onions for garnish

Posted on March 3, 2025

Asian Recipes

Looking for a quick and delicious meal? This Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe is just what you need! With tender pieces of chicken coated in a savory sesame sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it cooks in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, making it a go-to for any home cook. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Green onions for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes in the Instant Pot.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/4 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté function.
2. Add sesame oil and let it heat up.
3. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add chicken pieces and cook until slightly browned.
5. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
6. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
7. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 8 minutes.
8. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes.
9. Release the remaining pressure and open the lid.
10. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir into the chicken mixture to thicken the sauce.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version. Tamari sauce is a great gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

Serving and Pairings

Serve this flavorful sesame chicken over steamed white rice or quinoa. It pairs wonderfully with steamed broccoli or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

– Don’t overcrowd the Instant Pot; cook in batches if necessary.
– Avoid skipping the natural pressure release; it helps retain moisture.
– Make sure to deglaze the pot after sautéing to prevent burning.
– Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your taste.
– Don’t skip the cornstarch step if you want a thicker sauce.

Helpful Tips

– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Marinating the chicken for 30 minutes can enhance the taste.
– Garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions for presentation.
– Adjust the soy sauce for saltiness to suit your preferences.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute with vegetable oil. However, sesame oil adds a unique flavor that enhances the dish.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just cook it in the Instant Pot when you’re ready to eat.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is not spicy. However, you can add red pepper flakes for a kick if desired.

What to serve with sesame chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or a light salad. It also complements noodles beautifully.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy. Its rich flavors and tender chicken make it a standout dish for any occasion. Try it tonight and enjoy the convenience of the Instant Pot!