Name: Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken thighs; to taste salt; to taste ground black pepper; 1.5 tablespoons cooking oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons water or chicken broth (preferred); 3 dashes cayenne pepper

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The moment I first tried Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken, I knew I stumbled upon something truly special. It was a chilly weeknight, and I was craving something comforting yet easy to prepare. I grabbed my Instant Pot, brought out some simple ingredients, and within no time, my kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of honey and garlic. The sweet and savory combination had my family flocking to the table, and they couldn’t get enough of the tender, juicy chicken that just fell off the bone.

This dish has become a staple in our household, a go-to recipe when I need to whip up something that pleases everyone without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is in its simplicity. You can have it ready in under twenty minutes, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe never disappoints!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

Why We Love This Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Quick and Easy

One of the standout features of Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is how quick it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. It’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner without the fuss.

Flavorful Sauce

The honey garlic sauce is a game-changer. It’s sweet, savory, and has a hint of spice from the cayenne pepper that really elevates the dish. Every bite of chicken is coated in this luscious sauce, making it irresistible. It pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables, soaking up all the delicious flavors.

Tender and Juicy Chicken

Cooking in the Instant Pot ensures the chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy. The pressure cooking method locks in the moisture, so you’ll never end up with dry chicken. It’s such a relief to know that every time I make this recipe, the chicken will be perfectly cooked.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is fantastic for meal prep. You can make a big batch and have leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It tastes just as good reheated, making it a practical choice for busy individuals and families.

Versatile Ingredients

The ingredients used in this recipe are versatile and can easily be adjusted based on what you have on hand. For instance, you can swap out the chicken for tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian option. The sauce remains the star of the dish, ensuring that whatever you use will be delicious.

Family-Friendly

This recipe has been a huge hit with my family, including the kids. They love the sweet flavor of the honey garlic sauce and the tender chicken. It’s an easy way to introduce them to new flavors, and I appreciate that it’s a wholesome meal I can feel good about serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

The ingredients for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken are simple but incredibly effective in creating a mouthwatering dish. Each component plays a role in enhancing the flavors and ensuring the chicken remains tender and juicy. The key players in this recipe are the honey, garlic, and soy sauce, which together create a delectable sauce that perfectly complements the chicken.

1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs: The star of the dish, chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them the perfect choice for this recipe.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken and bringing out the best in the dish.
Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the overall flavor profile.
1 1/2 tablespoons cooking oil: Used for searing the chicken, adding richness and ensuring a nice brown crust.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and flavor, essential to the honey garlic sauce.
1 tablespoon chopped parsley: A fresh garnish that adds color and enhances the overall presentation.
3 tablespoons honey: The key element for sweetness in the sauce, balancing the savory and spicy flavors.
1 teaspoon sugar or brown sugar: Complements the honey for an extra layer of sweetness.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor to the sauce, making it irresistible.
3 tablespoons water or chicken broth (preferred): Helps create the sauce’s consistency and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
3 dashes cayenne pepper: A hint of heat that elevates the dish and adds complexity.

The Method for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on making Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken. This method is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. The Instant Pot does most of the work, allowing you to achieve tender chicken coated in a flavorful sauce without much fuss.

Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and ground black pepper. This initial seasoning step is crucial, as it builds the base flavor for your chicken. Make sure to coat both sides evenly and then set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the sauce.
In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the honey garlic sauce: honey, soy sauce, water or chicken broth, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Stir well until the honey and sugar are completely dissolved. This step ensures a smooth sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.
Turn on the sauté mode on your Instant Pot and allow it to heat up. Once heated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. The oil will help to create a nice crust on the chicken when you sear it.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the Instant Pot, skin side down first. Sear the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until both sides are a lovely golden brown. This step is important for locking in flavor and enhancing the texture.
After searing, leave the chicken in the pot. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of cooking oil and add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish.
Next, pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken in the Instant Pot. Make sure the chicken is well-coated in the sauce. This sauce will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
Seal the lid of the Instant Pot and select the manual setting. Set the timer for high pressure for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure. When the valve drops, remove the lid carefully. You will be greeted by the delightful aroma of your Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken!
For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the chicken before serving. This adds a fresh, vibrant color and a bit of herbal flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Serve the chicken immediately, drizzled with extra honey garlic sauce from the pot. Pair it with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to please.

Things Worth Knowing

Know your Instant Pot: Understanding your Instant Pot’s settings and functions can make all the difference in achieving perfect results.
Don’t skip the searing: Searing the chicken first adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color to the dish.
Control the sweetness: If you find the honey sauce too sweet, balance it with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Adapting the recipe: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken, here are some great tips to switch it up a bit. These variations will help keep things exciting while maintaining the essence of this delicious dish.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing: This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Ingredient variations: Try swapping out the chicken for tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian option. The honey garlic sauce works beautifully with various proteins!
Spice it up: If you love a kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
Herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to infuse additional flavors into the dish.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken, there are several delicious options to consider. Here are some ideas to help you create a balanced and satisfying meal:

Steamed rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy steamed rice to soak up all that delicious honey garlic sauce.
Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, try serving it with quinoa, which adds protein and a nutty flavor.
Roasted vegetables: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers. The sweetness of the honey garlic sauce complements the natural sweetness of roasted veggies.
Fresh salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Grilled corn: If it’s summer, serve the chicken with grilled corn on the cob for a delightful seasonal touch.
Family gatherings: This dish is perfect for gatherings and potlucks. It’s sure to impress your guests and is easy to double for larger groups.
Seasonal pairings: In fall, consider adding a side of roasted sweet potatoes. In springtime, serve with asparagus for a bright and seasonal touch.

FAQ

If you want to kick up the heat in your Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken, consider adding more cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also include sliced fresh chili peppers, such as jalapeños or serranos, during the sautéing step. Adjust the amount to your heat preference. Additionally, a dash of hot sauce can provide that extra zing you might be looking for. Just remember to balance the heat with the sweetness of the honey for a harmonious flavor.

Yes, you can use chicken breast in place of the thighs for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken. While chicken breasts are leaner and lower in fat, they can also dry out more easily. To prevent this, be careful not to overcook them. Aim for a cooking time of about 8 to 10 minutes on high pressure in the Instant Pot. This should keep the chicken moist and tender while still allowing the flavors of the sauce to shine through.

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serving Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken over steamed rice or quinoa is a popular choice, as the grains absorb the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even crispy stir-fried greens for a well-rounded meal. Feel free to experiment with different sides according to your taste and dietary preferences!

Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken. Just ensure the chicken is cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It’s best to consume frozen chicken within three months for optimal flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special family meal. With its tender, juicy chicken coated in a delectable sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has earned a place in my regular rotation. I encourage you to give it a try; your taste buds will thank you! Gather your ingredients and let the Instant Pot work its magic. You’ll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in no time!