Instant Pot Orange Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is a fantastic dish that brings the vibrant and sweet flavors of orange right to your table. With its tender chicken pieces coated in a tangy sauce, it offers an incredible taste that is sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The unique combination of sweet and savory elements will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

If you’ve tried the takeout version of orange chicken, you’ll be thrilled to discover how easy it is to recreate this amazing dish at home. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process efficient, locking in flavors while ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and succulent. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just cooking for your family, this Instant Pot Orange Chicken is a hit every time.

Imagine serving a mouthwatering dish that brings forth comforting aromas and delightful flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe will not only save you time but also create an unforgettable dining experience. In this guide, we will delve into the reasons why this dish is so special, the preparation and cooking times, the essential ingredients, a comprehensive step-by-step recipe, and tips on how to serve it for the best presentation.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Instant Pot Orange Chicken is quick and straightforward. Here’s how your time will break down:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Natural Pressure Release: 10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes

These time estimates can vary depending on your kitchen experience and equipment, but they provide a good guideline.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced or grated
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to prepare this tasty Instant Pot Orange Chicken:

1. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with a little salt and pepper.
2. Sauté: Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Add sesame oil and let it heat up.
3. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and lightly brown them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the orange juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until well blended.
5. Deglaze Pot: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot, scraping the bottom of the pot to get all the savory bits up.
6. Seal and Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the vent is sealed. Set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
7. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
8. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth. Switch the Instant Pot back to sauté mode and stir in this mixture to thicken the sauce while cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
9. Serve: Once the sauce is thickened, gently stir to coat the chicken well. Turn off the Instant Pot.
10. Garnish: If desired, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

With these clear instructions, you’re all set to make a sensational dish!

How to Serve

To elevate your Instant Pot Orange Chicken experience, consider these serving suggestions:

1. Over Rice: Serve it over steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
2. With Noodles: For a different twist, serve over cooked noodles like lo mein or rice noodles.
3. Garnishing: Enhance the dish’s presentation by garnishing with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
4. Accompaniments: Pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
5. Family Style: Serve the chicken in the pot itself for a casual family dinner setting.

These tips will make your Instant Pot Orange Chicken an unforgettable dish that will impress everyone at your table! Enjoy cooking and savoring every bite!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Juice: For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice instead of store-bought. It enhances the natural sweetness in your dish.
• Adjust Heat Level: You can add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha if you prefer a spicier kick in your orange chicken.
• Marinate: If time allows, marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking. This enhances the flavor even more.
• Serving Temperature: Serve the dish immediately after cooking for the best taste. The sauce can thicken if left to sit too long.
• Garnish Creatively: Get creative with garnishes! Try adding chopped cilantro or a slice of orange for a pop of color and flavor.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to explore these variations for a unique twist on your Instant Pot Orange Chicken:

1. Crispy Orange Chicken: After cooking, spread the chicken on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes to achieve a crunchy exterior.
2. Vegetable Additions: Add steamed broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers to the mix for a nutritious boost and added texture.
3. Coconut Orange Chicken: Incorporate coconut milk into the sauce for a tropical flair. This gives it a creamy texture and enhances the sweetness.
4. Honey Orange Chicken: Substitute honey for brown sugar to bring a different sweetness and flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Keep any leftover Instant Pot Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for 3-4 days without losing its flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of water or extra orange juice to keep the sauce moist and prevent it from drying out.

Special Equipment

Prepare for your cooking adventure with these essential tools:

• Instant Pot: This is your main cooking appliance for creating the orange chicken.
• Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping chicken and preparing vegetables.
• Mixing Bowls: Use them for whisking together sauces and marinades.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for ingredients.
• Whisk or Spoon: For mixing the sauce ingredients together.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is a delightful treat that combines convenience with a burst of flavor. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing taste, this dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The combination of tangy orange sauce and tender, juicy chicken creates a meal that everyone will love. Once you try this recipe, it may become a staple in your household!