Instant Pot Sesame Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful sauce. This recipe transforms a classic takeout favorite into a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. If you love the taste of sesame seeds paired with the umami flavor of soy sauce, then this dish is perfect for you. The aroma fills your kitchen, promising a delicious dining experience with very little effort.

Once you try Instant Pot Sesame Chicken, you may never want to order takeout again. This recipe is designed for everyone, from busy families to culinary enthusiasts who want a delightful meal without lengthy cooking times. The beauty of using an Instant Pot lies in its ability to intensify flavors while drastically reducing cooking time. In days when time is of the essence, this recipe shines.

Imagine juicy pieces of chicken coated in a savory glaze of sesame and soy, served over a bed of rice. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors creates an impeccable balance that you and your loved ones will crave. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a wonderful addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Ready to dive into the sensational world of Instant Pot Sesame Chicken? In this guide, you will explore why this recipe stands out, how to prepare it easily, and tips for serving. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to produce an impressive dish that checks all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and satisfaction.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Instant Pot Sesame Chicken takes minimal time and effort, thanks to the efficiency of the Instant Pot. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Natural Release Time: 10 minutes

Overall, you’ll enjoy a complete meal in about 35 minutes. This simple timeline makes planning family dinners or entertaining guests easier than ever.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• ⅓ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is a breeze with these easy steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until combined.
3. Sauté (Optional): Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add a little oil and sear the chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes until slightly browned.
4. Add Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the pot, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.
5. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, set it to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes.
6. Natural Release: Allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. Carefully switch to a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.
7. Thicken Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water. Stir this mixture into the pot, switch back to sauté mode, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken before serving.
9. Serve: Spoon the sesame chicken over a bed of cooked rice and enjoy.

Following these straightforward steps will yield a savory, satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.

How to Serve

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Sesame Chicken, presentation and accompaniment can elevate the dining experience:

1. Serving Style: Use a large bowl or a deep platter to showcase the chicken and sauce for a family-style meal.
2. Rice Base: Serve the sesame chicken over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Accompaniments: Consider pairing with steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a well-rounded meal.
4. garnish: Additional sesame seeds and green onions on top add visual appeal and extra flavor.
5. Pairing Drinks: This dish pairs well with light beverages, such as jasmine tea or a crisp white wine, for an elevated dining experience.

By focusing on these serving suggestions, you’ll create a memorable meal that leaves a lasting impression on your guests or family. The joy of preparing and serving Instant Pot Sesame Chicken lies in the simpleness of the task, coupled with the amazing flavors and textures that everyone will love!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger can significantly enhance the flavor of your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken. Freshness matters!
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch in your thickening step. Start with an extra teaspoon and adjust according to your liking.
• Flavor Boost: Consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and sesame oil for 30 minutes before cooking. This allows for even deeper flavor penetration.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to experiment! Here are some tempting variations to consider:

1. Honey Garlic Variation: Add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic to the sauce for a stronger garlic flavor, which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey.
2. Vegetable-packed Version: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or snap peas along with the chicken for added color and nutrition.
3. Spicy Twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha into the sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cooked Sesame Chicken in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment

To whip up your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken effectively, you will need the following items:

• Instant Pot: Essential for pressure cooking and achieving tender chicken.
• Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken and vegetables safely.
• Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the sauce ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is an easy yet indulgent dish that satisfies the whole family. With its rich flavors and quick preparation time, it proves to be a valuable addition to any meal rotation. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe transforms a classic favorite into a convenient homemade experience. Next time you crave takeout, remember that with your Instant Pot, a delicious, flavorful meal is just minutes away!