Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious dish that will make your weeknight dinner amazing! With its savory and sweet flavors, it stands out as a favorite in many households. The convenience of the Instant Pot allows you to create a tender and flavorful chicken dish in a fraction of the time it would take using conventional methods. This recipe is a perfect example of how an everyday ingredient can transform into an extraordinary meal that your family will love.

If you’re looking for an easy way to serve a crowd, this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is the answer. The rich sauce coats succulent pieces of chicken, creating a comforting dish that warms the soul. It's not just about taste; this recipe has a wonderful balance of nutrients and proteins that makes each bite satisfying. Plus, the quick preparation means you can have dinner on the table in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

Let’s dive into the details of why this recipe is so enticing and how you can create this dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, you'll appreciate the simplicity of this recipe and the amazing results it delivers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating this delightful dish is quick and straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the time you can expect:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Natural Release Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Even with the natural release of pressure, you'll find that this recipe harmoniously fits into a busy schedule.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets (optional)
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this incredible Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is straightforward and satisfying. Just follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until well blended.
3. Set Up the Instant Pot: Add the chicken pieces to the Instant Pot. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
4. Add Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the pot, stirring to combine everything.
5. Seal the Instant Pot: Close the lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
6. Set Cooking Program: Select the “Poultry” or “Manual” setting on the Instant Pot and set the timer for 10 minutes.
7. Pressure Cook: Once the cooking time is completed, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
8. Thicken the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the slurry to the pot, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
9. Stir in Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet crisp.
10. Serve: Scoop the Teriyaki Chicken onto plates, garnishing with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

By following these steps, you’ll not only create a delicious meal but also enjoy the process of cooking!

How to Serve

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken, presentation and accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are some creative suggestions:

1. Plate It Up: Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the rich sauce.
2. Add Vegetables: Complement the dish with a side of sautéed snap peas or carrot ribbons for added color and nutrition.
3. Garnish: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions not only adds flavor but also makes it visually appealing.
4. Themed Dinner: Create an Asian-themed dinner by serving this alongside miso soup or a crisp cucumber salad.
5. Leftovers Makeover: Utilize leftovers by turning them into wraps or adding them to stir-fry dishes the next day.

By putting thought into your serving suggestions, you’ll create a delightful dining experience that impresses your guests and family!

Additional Tips

• Marinate for More Flavor: For an even richer taste, marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before cooking. This will infuse the flavors deeply into the meat.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce. Start with a pinch and add more according to your spice preference.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Besides broccoli, feel free to include bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas. They not only add nutrition but also vibrant colors to your dish.

Recipe Variation

There are numerous ways to customize your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken. Here are some variations to consider:

1. Teriyaki Tofu: For a vegetarian alternative, replace chicken with firm tofu. Press and cube the tofu, and follow the same cooking instructions.
2. Add Pineapple: Incorporate fresh pineapple chunks into the Instan Pot for a tropical twist. It complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Freezing and Storage

Storing your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is simple. Follow these guidelines:

• Storage: Let the chicken cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Portion the chicken and sauce into freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Having the right tools can make preparing Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken easier and more efficient:

• Instant Pot: The star of the show! Ensure it's properly functioning and clean before you start cooking.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For precise cutting of chicken and ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavors.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only a swift meal option but also a delightful blend of flavors that will please your family and friends. This easy-to-follow recipe removes the hassle of lengthy cooking times without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering, this dish checks all the boxes. Enjoy the beautiful balance of sweet and savory, all made possible in your Instant Pot!