Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Name: Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
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

Life can often feel like a never-ending rush, filled with to-do lists and obligations. Amid all the chaos, there’s a little joy to be found in the kitchen, particularly when you whip up a dish that feels both comforting and satisfying. Enter the Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken – an irresistible combination of tender chicken, sweet honey, and savory garlic that transforms your dinner into a delightful experience, all in under an hour. Whether you’re a culinary newbie or a seasoned pro, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household due to its simplicity and flavor.

Why Make This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Bursting with flavor, thanks to the savory-sweet honey garlic sauce.
One-pot cooking means less mess and easy cleanup.

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it with a variety of sides, making it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fancy gathering with friends.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Ready to transform your chicken dinner experience? The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, creating a juicy and tender dish that packs a flavorful punch. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own Honey Garlic Chicken at home.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to have everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s what you will need for our delightful honey garlic chicken:

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

Season the Chicken

The first step in this flavorful journey is to prepare the chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with a good sprinkle of salt and ground black pepper. This will not only enhance the chicken’s natural flavors but also set the stage for the delicious honey garlic sauce you’re about to create. After seasoning, set the chicken thighs aside for a moment while you prepare the sauce.

Mix the Honey Garlic Sauce

Now, let’s create the magic of honey garlic sauce! In a medium mixing bowl, combine the honey, sugar, soy sauce, water (or chicken broth for a richer flavor), minced garlic, and cayenne pepper. Be sure to stir the mixture well until the honey and sugar are completely dissolved. Setting this sauce aside now will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and will be the star of your dish.

Sauté the Chicken

Next, it’s time to add that beautiful sear to your chicken. Start by turning on the Sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Once it’s heated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Carefully pan-sear the chicken thighs in the pot, skin side down first until both sides turn a perfect golden brown. This step not only enhances the flavor but also gives your chicken a lovely texture that everyone will appreciate.

Introducing the Garlic

With the chicken nicely browned, leave it in the pot for a moment while you add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute. The aroma will be simply irresistible, signaling that you’re just moments away from a delicious dinner.

Pressure Cook the Chicken

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring that each piece is coated in that delectable sauce. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and select the Manual setting, adjusting it to cook at High pressure for just 10 minutes.

Once the timer beeps, use Quick Release to let the steam escape. When the valve drops, carefully remove the lid, and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness.

You can now serve your Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken immediately, soaking up that delicious sauce with every bite!

Keeping Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Fresh

Storing Leftover Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how tasty this dish is), here are some helpful tips to keep your chicken fresh:

Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3–4 days at 40°F.
For long-term storage, freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply thaw if frozen and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

This delightful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile option for any meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce.
Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a colorful and nutritious meal.
For a lighter option, enjoy it on a bed of mixed greens or in a wrap.
Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor.

Whatever you choose, the blend of sweet and savory flavors will make your meal memorable.

Tips to Make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Always sear the chicken first to enhance its flavor.
Allow the honey and sugar to dissolve completely for the perfect sauce consistency.
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, consider these fun variations:

Use Chicken Breasts: Instead of chicken thighs, you can absolutely use chicken breasts for a leaner option. Just be aware that breasts cook faster than thighs, so you may reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
Add Vegetables: Want to make this a one-pot meal? Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers along with the chicken for a nutritious boost.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply sear the chicken and pour the sauce over it.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more flavor and remain tender under pressure, making them perfect for this recipe.

Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: If you love heat, add an extra dash of cayenne pepper or even some Sriracha sauce to the honey garlic sauce for an added kick.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: It pairs wonderfully with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it highly versatile and satisfying.

Conclusion

In a world where convenience often overrides quality, Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken stands out as a recipe that combines speed with incredible flavor. The rich, sweet, and savory notes of the honey garlic sauce enveloping tender chicken thighs will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner for your family or a meal prepped for a busy week, this dish shines with every bite.

So why not take a moment to revel in the simple pleasure of cooking? Grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey that will transform mealtime into a celebration. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is sure to become a cherished part of your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Why Make This Recipe