Name: Instant Pot General Tso Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken thighs cut into 2-3 inch chunks; 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil; 1 tablespoon ginger minced; 6 cloves garlic minced; 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes; 6 tablespoons rice vinegar; 6 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium; 6 teaspoons hoisin sauce; 1/3 cup water; 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons water; red pepper flakes; sesame seeds; green onions chopped

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The aroma of tender chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce tickles your senses as you think about dinner. This isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a comforting plate of Instant Pot General Tso Chicken that’s quickly brewed to perfection in your kitchen. The balance of tangy rice vinegar and the umami of soy sauce combined with spices creates a mouth-watering experience that rivals your favorite takeout spot.

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In terms of ease, this dish is a gem. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something special without the fuss. Thanks to pantry staples, it’s both budget-friendly and versatile, allowing you to make delightful substitutions for dietary needs. Just imagine savoring a satisfying bowl of this deliciousness tonight!

Table of Contents

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

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: A weeknight winner you can whip up in less than an hour.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory will tantalize your taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors make it a focal point on your dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep throughout the week.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or even vegan diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe. You could substitute with chicken breast, but keep in mind that breast may not be as moist.
1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil: This helps to sauté your chicken and enhances the flavor. You could swap in olive oil for a different taste.
1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Fresh ginger adds a lovely warmth and depth. Dried ginger could be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the chicken with robust flavor. You might substitute with garlic powder, but fresh is unbeatable.
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes: Adjust to your spice preference; more for heat, less for milder flavor.
6 tablespoons rice vinegar: This adds the necessary tang. Substitutions can be apple cider vinegar or white vinegar.
6 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium): A crucial ingredient for umami richness. Use tamari for gluten-free.
6 teaspoons hoisin sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is key to authentic flavor. Just maple syrup could be a sweet alternative.
1/3 cup water: Helps to create the sauce base.
3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey: Adds sweetness; for honey, adjust the amount if you prefer lower sugar.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: This thickens the sauce. If you’re avoiding cornstarch, you could use arrowroot powder.
3 tablespoons water: Mixed with cornstarch to form a slurry for thickening.
Red pepper flakes and sesame seeds: For garnish and added flavor.
Green onions, chopped: Freshness and crunch to finish the dish.

How to Make Instant Pot General Tso Chicken

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into 2-3 inch chunks. Opt for slightly larger pieces since the Instant Pot keeps them moist and prevents breaking apart.
Sauté the Chicken: Turn on your Instant Pot and select Sauté. Adjust to the More setting until it reads HOT. Add the oil and let it heat for about a minute. Toss in the chicken to sauté for 2-3 minutes until it takes on a golden-brown color.
Combine the Ingredients: Add the minced ginger, minced garlic, red chili flakes, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and 1/3 cup of water to the pot. Mix well, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Pressure Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot securely. Select the Poultry function and set the timer for 5 minutes.
Natural Release: Once cooking is complete, use a 10-minute Natural Release. Then turn off the heat, release any remaining pressure, and open the lid. Gently stir the chicken to avoid breaking pieces.
Thicken the Sauce: Activate the Sauté function again. In a separate small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pot and stir gently. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. If you desire a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch slurry at this point.
Let It Stand: Turn off the Instant Pot and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Serve: Serve the General Tso Chicken over rice with steamed broccoli. Garnish with chopped green onions, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that final touch of flair.

Storing & Reheating

To store your leftover Instant Pot General Tso Chicken, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two hours. Refrigerate for 3-4 days to maintain freshness. If you plan on keeping it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Just note that the texture may slightly change, but a quick stir should help refresh it!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken; make sure to adhere to the timing.
For flavor enhancement, letting your chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes can intensify flavors, though it’s not necessary.
If you want a balanced flavor, taste the sauce before thickening and adjust sugar, soy sauce, or vinegar as needed.
Feel free to prep the ingredients in advance to save time on busy evenings.
If you prefer, you can toss in some veggies like bell peppers or carrots during the sauté step for added nutrition and color.

The vibrant flavors and tender chicken will definitely make this dish a favorite at your dinner table. Just think how wonderful it will be to share this instant classic with family or friends. Experiment a little with the recipe—maybe add a twist with extra veggies or a different sweetener!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but it may turn out a bit drier since it has less fat than thighs. Ensure not to overcook.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos, which are gluten-free alternatives.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you desire a thicker sauce, mix additional cornstarch with water and stir it in as the sauce simmers on the Sauté function until it reaches your desired consistency.

What sides go well with General Tso Chicken?

Serve over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa, and consider adding steamed broccoli or a side salad for a colorful, balanced meal.

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Instant Pot General Tso Chicken