Name: Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1-2 tablespoons Gochujang ((Korean chili paste)); 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 1 inch fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves garlic, grated; 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; steamed white rice (for serving); 1 cup kimchi; 1 mango, sliced; toasted sesame seeds and green onions (for serving)

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There’s something truly magical about the moment you lift the lid off your Instant Pot and are enveloped by the rich, savory aroma of Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm and comforting that would transport my taste buds straight to Korea. The combination of tender chicken simmered in a sweet and spicy sauce is nothing short of heavenly. As I served my family, the looks on their faces told me I had struck gold – it quickly became a household favorite. Every bite bursts with flavor, and it’s incredibly satisfying to know I can whip it up in no time.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Slow Cooker, Instant Pot, Skillet, Grater, Chef’s Knife

What’s Great About This Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the main reasons I adore Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have an impressive dish on the table in no time. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.

2. Packed with Flavor

This dish is not just about convenience; it’s also bursting with flavor. The balance of soy sauce, honey, and Gochujang creates a delightful sweet and spicy harmony that’s hard to resist. Every bite is a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more.

3. Versatile Serving Options

Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken is versatile enough to serve in various ways. Whether you pair it with fluffy steamed rice, toss it into a salad, or even wrap it up in lettuce leaves, it always shines. You can customize your meal, making it perfect for any occasion.

4. Great for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love to meal prep, this dish is a fantastic choice. It stores beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Prepare a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious lunches ready for the week ahead.

5. Kid-Friendly

Kids can be picky eaters, but the sweet and spicy notes of Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken are usually a hit with little ones. It’s an excellent way to introduce them to new flavors without overwhelming their taste buds. Plus, it’s fun to let them help with the preparations!

Ingredients Required for Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken

The ingredients for Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken are thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Each component plays an essential role in the final dish, ensuring a balance of sweetness, umami, and a hint of spice. The key players in this recipe are soy sauce, which provides a salty depth, and honey, which adds that irresistible sweetness. Together with Gochujang and ginger, they create a sauce that’s both comforting and exciting.

1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari: Offers the savory backbone of the dish.
1/4 cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness that balances the spice.
1-2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste): Provides heat and depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil: Enhances the nutty aroma and flavor.
1 inch fresh ginger, grated: Adds a zesty freshness to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, grated: Infuses the recipe with aromatic flavor.
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The protein hero of the dish.
Steamed white rice, for serving: A perfect base to soak up the sauce.
1 cup kimchi: Adds a tangy crunch as a side.
1 mango, sliced: Offers a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
Toasted sesame seeds and green onions, for serving: Adds a finishing touch of flavor and color.

Step by Step Instructions for Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken

Cooking Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken is like taking a culinary journey to Korea from the comfort of your kitchen. With just a few steps, you’ll create a dish that will impress everyone. Let’s dive into the process!

Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, Gochujang, sesame oil, freshly grated ginger, and garlic to create a flavorful marinade. Stir it well until all the ingredients are well blended.
Take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and soak up the marinade more efficiently. Toss the pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
Transfer the marinated chicken into the bowl of your Instant Pot. Lock the lid in place, making sure the steam vent is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for eight minutes. During this time, the chicken will absorb all those delicious flavors.
Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick release to let the steam escape. Carefully open the pot, and you’ll see the chicken glistening in the sauce.
If the sauce needs thickening, switch the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Let the sauce simmer for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch the sauce as it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency.
While the sauce is thickening, prepare your serving dishes. Steam some fluffy white rice, which will serve as the perfect base for the chicken.
Once the sauce is thick enough, it’s time to serve. Spoon the tender chicken and the luscious sauce over the rice, allowing the warmth to soak in.
Add a side of kimchi for a tangy crunch, and slice up your mango for a fresh, sweet counterpoint.
Finally, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for a pop of flavor and color. This will elevate the presentation and add an appealing texture.
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken with family and friends, feeling proud of your culinary creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Thickening sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer on the sauté mode and stir frequently.
Marination time: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Ingredient substitutions: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more Gochujang or using less based on your taste.
Serving suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Make It Your Own

Every cook has their own style, and Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken is no exception. Here are some tips to help you personalize this dish to your tastes.

Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with a sugar alternative.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or more Gochujang for an extra kick of heat.
Vegetable additions: Toss in some bell peppers or onions during the sauté step for added texture and nutrition.
Alternative proteins: This recipe works well with thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Serving variations: Serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist or over noodles for a different presentation.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for later use. Just make sure to cool it completely before storing.

Accompaniments for Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken

Steamed rice: Always a great base, fluffy white rice or even brown rice can soak up the delicious sauce.
Vegetables: Serve with a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Salads: A refreshing side salad can add crunch and freshness to your meal.
Kimchi: Never miss out on this traditional Korean side that adds a spicy tang to the dish.
Mango slices: Their sweetness provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for a busy week.
Seasonal pairings: Enjoy it year-round, but it’s especially delightful during summer when fresh mangoes are in season.

FAQ

Absolutely! Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen as it sits, making it even tastier on the second day. Just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to ensure it stays moist.

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice, but you can also serve it with noodles or wrap it in lettuce for a fun twist. A side of kimchi adds a fantastic crunch and tang. Additionally, consider serving it with some seasonal vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Yes, you can easily adapt Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. If the sauce needs thickening, you can increase the heat and cook uncovered for a while towards the end.

To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for about three days. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing the chicken in a freezer-safe container. Make sure it has cooled completely before freezing, and it will last for up to three months.

You can certainly use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe! Chicken thighs will provide a richer flavor and moisture, making the dish even more delicious. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed, as thighs may require a bit longer to cook through, depending on their size.

Conclusion

Creating Instant Pot Sticky Korean Chicken is a wonderful journey that combines delicious flavors with convenience. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings warmth and joy to every meal. I encourage you to try it; you might just find that it’s the perfect recipe for family dinners or meal prep for busy weekdays.