Delicious Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken on a plate garnished with green onions.

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

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Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

If you’re looking for a delightful and inviting dish that’s easy to prepare, Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect solution. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a deliciously sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, yielding a meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests. The Instant Pot brings these flavors together in record time, making it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or last-minute dinner plans.

Why Make This Recipe

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor and convenience. Preparing meals in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors through pressure cooking. The honey garlic sauce complements the succulent chicken, making every bite an explosion of taste. Plus, this dish can be customized to fit your dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a cozy dinner for two, this recipe is versatile enough to make everyone satisfied.

How to Make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Creating this mouthwatering Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken dish is simple and foolproof, even for novice cooks. With just a few key ingredients and steps, you can whip up a memorable meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (4 chicken thighs)
  • Salt
  • Ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons water (or chicken broth preferred)
  • 3 dashes cayenne pepper

Directions:

  1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.

  2. In a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the Honey Garlic Sauce. Stir until the honey and sugar are completely dissolved. Set this sauce aside for later.

  3. Turn on the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add 1 tablespoon of the cooking oil. Pan-sear the chicken thighs, starting with the skin side down first, until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust on both sides.

  4. Leave the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil, and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for a minute to enhance its flavor.

  5. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.

  6. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to Manual mode, and select High Pressure for 10 minutes.

  7. When the cooking time is complete, turn the valve to Quick Release. Once the valve drops, carefully remove the lid, add the chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve the chicken immediately with the delicious honey garlic sauce drizzled on top.

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Pro Tips for Success with Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

  1. Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the chicken turns the skin crispy and caramelizes the flavors, providing an extra depth to the dish.

  2. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey and sugar based on your personal preference. A little less honey will give you a more savory taste.

  3. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly compared to powdered garlic. The aroma fills your kitchen as you cook!

  4. Optional Marinade: For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce for an hour before cooking, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.

  5. Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water) and add it to the pot after cooking, sautéing until thickened.

  6. Cooking Time: Always make sure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for full safety.

Flavor Variations of Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

  1. Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or incorporate some sriracha for an extra kick.

  2. Lemon-Honey Garlic Chicken: Squeeze some fresh lemon juice into the sauce for a bright and zesty twist.

  3. Herb-Infused Garlic Sauce: Mix in dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant herbal flavor.

  4. Pineapple Honey Garlic Chicken: Add diced pineapple in the last few minutes of cooking to introduce a tropical sweetness.

  5. Gingered Honey Garlic Chicken: Incorporate fresh ginger with the garlic for a warm and spicy undertone.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas:

  • Pair with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up all that delicious sauce.
  • Serve alongside a vibrant salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette.
  • For a hearty meal, add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots.
  • Offer soft, fluffy naan or crusty bread to mop up the honey garlic sauce.
  • Complete the meal with a light dessert, like fresh fruit or a sorbet, to balance the flavors.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Once the leftovers have cooled, store the Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove until piping hot.

If you want to freeze this dish, portion out the chicken and sauce in freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible. The chicken can be frozen for up to three months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|———–|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 30g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |

FAQ About Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to remain juicier and more flavorful. If using breasts, make sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness.

Can I make this recipe without sugar?

You can choose to skip the sugar or use a sugar substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. The honey will still provide sweetness, but the sugar helps in balancing the flavors, so adjust to your taste.

What spices can I add to enhance the flavor further?

Consider adding other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to increase the flavor complexity. Just remember to adjust salt accordingly.

How do I make the dish gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative available in stores.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the honey garlic sauce a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and stir well before using.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a fantastic recipe that brings convenience and taste together in one pot. It’s perfect for families, busy individuals, or anyone looking to whip up a delicious meal without the hassle. With a few simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you can create a dish that’s not just satisfying but one that encourages seconds. So gather your ingredients and make this delightful recipe tonight — everyone will be asking for more!

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Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

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  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
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Description

A delightful and easy recipe featuring tender chicken thighs in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, made quickly in an Instant Pot.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs
  • Salt
  • Ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons cooking oil
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or brown sugar)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons water (or chicken broth preferred)
  • 3 dashes cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the Honey Garlic Sauce. Stir until the honey and sugar are completely dissolved. Set this sauce aside for later.
  3. Turn on the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add 1 tablespoon of the cooking oil. Pan-sear the chicken thighs, starting with the skin side down first, until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust on both sides.
  4. Leave the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil, and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for a minute to enhance its flavor.
  5. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
  6. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to Manual mode, and select High Pressure for 10 minutes.
  7. When the cooking time is complete, turn the valve to Quick Release. Once the valve drops, carefully remove the lid, add the chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve the chicken immediately with the delicious honey garlic sauce drizzled on top.

Notes

Ensure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Adjust sweetness by modifying honey and sugar amounts based on personal preference.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian

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