Print

Easy Instant Pot Honey Sesame Chicken

instant pot honey sesame chicken - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy honey sesame chicken recipe made in the Instant Pot, delivering tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory sticky sauce perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup honey (85 g)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (60 ml), low-sodium recommended
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (15 ml)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15 ml)
  • 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for slurry)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 stalks green onions, sliced thinly
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat dry the chicken thighs and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and water. Set aside.
  3. (Optional) Using the Instant Pot’s sauté function, heat a splash of sesame oil and briefly sauté an extra garlic clove for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Place the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot and pour the sauce mixture over them. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 8 minutes.
  5. Perform a quick release of pressure. Remove chicken and set aside. Switch to sauté mode.
  6. Mix cornstarch with water until smooth and stir into the pot to thicken the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until glossy and thickened.
  7. Return the chicken to the pot and toss to coat in the sauce. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry helps the sauce stick better. If sauce is too thin after thickening, simmer longer; if too thick, add a splash of water. Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it juicy. Fresh garlic and good-quality honey enhance flavor. For a spicy twist, add chili garlic sauce or cayenne powder. Use tamari for gluten-free version. Vegetarian option: substitute chicken with firm tofu and reduce pressure cook time to 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, honey sesame chicken, quick dinner, easy recipe, pressure cooker, weeknight meal, chicken thighs, sweet and savory

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/easy-instant-pot-honey-sesame-chicken-recipe-5-steps-to-perfect-homemade-dinner/