The sweet, savory aroma of honey garlic chicken fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet quick to prepare. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious, fragrant meal on the table in just about 30 minutes. Trust me when I say, it’s a standout favorite in my home. What makes it truly special is the luscious honey garlic sauce that coats tender chicken thighs, infusing them with rich flavor. Whether you’re serving it to your family or entertaining friends, this dish never fails to impress.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Instant Pot honey garlic chicken checks all the boxes. It’s incredibly quick, using the pressure cooking function to expedite the cooking process—perfect for those hectic weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. The balance of honey’s sweetness and garlic’s robust flavor creates a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent.
“This honey garlic chicken is now a staple in our household! The kids rave about it, and I love how quick it is to make!"
The cooking process explained
Making this instant pot masterpiece is as simple as it is delicious. Start by seasoning the chicken, then whip up an easy honey garlic sauce. Next, the chicken is pan-seared for that delightful brown crust before being cooked to tender perfection under pressure. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish ready that rivals your favorite takeout.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for a scrumptious meal:
- 1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (about 4 chicken thighs)
- Salt and 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 (optional)
These ingredients create the perfect harmony of flavors. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can substitute honey with a sugar-free syrup or adjust the sugar quantity to your liking.
Step-by-step instructions
Let’s break down the process to make your cooking experience seamless:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set them aside.
- In a bowl, mix all the ingredients for the honey garlic sauce, ensuring that the honey and sugar dissolve completely. Set this mixture aside.
- Turn on the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and pan-sear the chicken thighs (skin side down first) until both sides are a lovely, golden brown.
- Leave the chicken in the Instant Pot, then add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil and the minced garlic. Saute for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Close the lid and select Manual. Set to High pressure for 10 minutes.
- When it beeps, perform a Quick Release. Carefully remove the lid, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve the chicken immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
This honey garlic chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. It pairs beautifully with steamed broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. For a fun touch, consider topping it with sliced scallions or sesame seeds.
How to store & freeze
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, ensure it’s warmed through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also freeze the honey garlic chicken for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Helpful cooking tips
- Searing: Don’t skip the searing step! It creates a beautiful crust that adds depth to the flavors.
- Quick Release: Be cautious when performing the Quick Release. Always direct the steam away from your body to avoid burns.
- Browning the Garlic: Watch the garlic carefully while sautéing; it can burn quickly and change the flavor of your dish.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with flavors in this recipe! Add a dash of ginger for a zesty kick or try a splash of orange juice to balance the sweetness of the honey. For a spicier variation, increase the cayenne pepper or add some crushed red pepper flakes. You might even swap the chicken thighs for tender pieces of tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
The total time including prep and cooking is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but cooking times may vary slightly as they can dry out quicker than thighs.What if I don’t have honey?
You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for similar sweetness, although the flavor will vary slightly.Is it safe to reheat leftovers?
Yes, just make sure to reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
This Instant Pot honey garlic chicken is set to become a beloved dish in your household, just as it has in mine—simple, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week!
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Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (about 4 chicken thighs)
- Salt and 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 (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set them aside.
- In a bowl, mix all the ingredients for the honey garlic sauce, ensuring that the honey and sugar dissolve completely. Set this mixture aside.
- Turn on the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and pan-sear the chicken thighs (skin side down first) until both sides are a lovely, golden brown.
- Leave the chicken in the Instant Pot, then add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil and the minced garlic. Saute for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Close the lid and select Manual. Set to High pressure for 10 minutes.
- When it beeps, perform a Quick Release. Carefully remove the lid, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve the chicken immediately.
Notes
Serve over rice or quinoa, and pair with steamed broccoli or green beans. Experiment with flavors by adding ginger or orange juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian