Name: Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless and 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 ginger grated; 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; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 green onions sliced; sesame seeds

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There’s something truly irresistible about the aroma of garlic sizzling away, mingling with the earthy notes of sesame oil. The moment you pop the lid off the Instant Pot, you’re greeted with a mouthwatering blend of flavors that transports you right to the heart of a bustling Asian bistro. This is not just any dish; this is Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken, a perfect weeknight indulgence that’s bursting with savory goodness.

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Imagine enjoying a flavorful dinner in under an hour, all without the fuss of multiple pots or pans. With just a handful of ingredients from your pantry, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t break the bank. It’s beginner-friendly, convenient for meal prep, and even lends itself to easy adaptations for various dietary needs. I invite you to try this easy, satisfying dish that’s sure to hit the spot!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is a straightforward one-pot wonder.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and sesame creates a delightful profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant colors and a glossy finish make this dish a showstopper on any table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for dinner, lunch, or meal prep, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Can easily be made gluten-free by swapping out soy sauce for tamari.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lbs boneless and skinless chicken thighs: The chicken thighs stay juicy and tender, making them ideal for pressure cooking. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but adjust the cook time as they can dry out more easily.
2 tablespoons sesame oil: This adds a rich, nutty flavor that is essential for authenticity. If you don’t have sesame oil, try using olive oil, although the flavor will differ.
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Provides depth and umami. You can use tamari for a gluten-free version.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic brings a pungent, aromatic kick. Use more if you’re a garlic lover!
1 tablespoon grated ginger: Adds warmth and zest. Don’t skip this; fresh ginger makes a big difference!
1/3 cup brown sugar: This balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, offering a hint of sweetness. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup in a pinch.
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist during cooking. Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter touch.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: A little tartness accentuates the flavors; apple cider vinegar can be a substitute if you’re in a bind.
1/4 cup water: Used to ensure the pot reaches pressure; it won’t dilute the flavors significantly.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional heat to awaken your taste buds. Adjust to your liking or omit entirely for a milder dish.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used for thickening the sauce toward the end of cooking.
2 green onions, sliced: Freshness with a mild onion flavor, which brightens the dish. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs.
Sesame seeds: For a finishing touch that adds texture and a nutty flavor.

How to Make Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken

Combine the Ingredients: Place the 2 lbs of boneless and skinless chicken thighs, 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1/4 cup water into the Instant Pot. Sprinkle in the 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a kick. Stir everything well to ensure the chicken is coated thoroughly.
Cook the Chicken: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the pressure valve is set to sealed. Cook on High Pressure for 5 minutes. Afterward, allow for a 10-minute Natural Release before manually releasing the remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid.
Thicken the Sauce: Select the Sauté function on LOW. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Add this slurry to the Instant Pot, stirring gently to combine with the sauce. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, gently stirring, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. If needed, for an even thicker sauce, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and add it in.
Finish and Serve: Once you’ve reached your preferred sauce thickness, let the chicken sit for 5-7 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly more. Serve the chicken over rice and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that final touch.

Storing & Reheating

For leftovers, transfer any uneaten Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken in a suitable container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave it until piping hot or use a stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Keep in mind that the texture may become softer upon freezing, so refreshing it with some freshly chopped green onions upon heating can bring back some of that vibrancy.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid overcooking the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes after the pressure cooking phase before thickening the sauce.
Using room temperature chicken helps ensure even cooking throughout the meat.
If your sauce turns out too thick, a splash of chicken broth or water can easily loosen it up.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the cooking phase for a complete one-pot meal.
For the best flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

Enjoying the delicious flavors of Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken can become a delightful tradition at your dinner table. This fantastic dish is balanced, accessible, and brimming with flavor. As you become more familiar with the recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment—add a twist by introducing new ingredients or pairs.

Recipe FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken gluten-free by substituting the low-sodium soy sauce with tamari. Also, ensure that your chicken broth is gluten-free for the best results.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can. However, be aware that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and may dry out quicker. If using breasts, reduce the cooking time slightly to about 3 minutes on High Pressure for juicier results.

How can I store leftovers?

After cooking, any leftover chicken should be placed in an airtight container and can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option for up to 3 months.

How can I enhance the sauce flavors?

To elevate the flavors, consider adding a splash of lime juice right before serving. Fresh herbs or a drizzle of sesame oil can also enrich the dish significantly.

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