Name: Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (about 4 chicken thighs); Salt, to taste; Ground black pepper, to taste; 1 1/2 tablespoons cooking oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish); 3 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons water (or chicken broth for added depth); 3 dashes cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)

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Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that tantalizes your taste buds with its sweet and savory flavors. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any special occasion, providing a satisfying meal that everyone in the family will love.

Why Make This Recipe

Choosing to make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken means you’re opting for convenience without sacrificing flavor. The beauty of the Instant Pot is that it allows you to cook meals rapidly while ensuring that your ingredients retain their moisture and essence. Honey garlic chicken is not only a crowd-pleaser but also versatile enough to adapt to various taste preferences. With a short list of ingredients and a quick cooking process, this dish is great for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking to whip up something delicious in no time.

How to Make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Creating this delicious dish is simple and straightforward. Just gather your ingredients, follow the directions, and enjoy the sweet aroma of honey and garlic filling your kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (about 4 chicken thighs)
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons cooking oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons water (or chicken broth for added depth)
3 dashes cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)

Directions:

Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, and set them aside.
In a bowl, mix the ingredients for the Honey Garlic Sauce—honey, sugar, soy sauce, water (or broth), and cayenne pepper. Stir until the honey and sugar are completely dissolved.
Switch on the sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Once it’s heated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil and pan-sear the chicken thighs, starting with the skin side down. Cook until both sides are nicely browned.
Once browned, leave the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil, and add the minced garlic. Sauté for a minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, secure the lid, and select the Manual option. Set the cooking time to High pressure for 10 minutes.
When the timer goes off, turn the valve for a Quick Release. Once the valve drops, remove the lid carefully, add the chopped parsley, and serve your yummy Homemade Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken immediately.

Pro Tips for Success with Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Use Bone-in Chicken Thighs: While boneless chicken thighs are convenient, using bone-in thighs can enhance the flavor of the dish and keep the meat juicy.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a little more time, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Browning the chicken thighs before pressure cooking adds a rich, savory depth to the final dish.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey and sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
Serve with the Sauce: Always spoon some of the leftover sauce over the chicken when serving to amplify the flavors.

Flavor Variations for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Add Vegetables: Toss in some broccoli or snap peas in the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or increase the amount of cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy twist.
Sweet and Sour: Substitute half of the honey with pineapple juice to create a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Asian Twist: Include sesame oil in the sauce for a more pronounced Asian flavor, along with some sesame seeds as a garnish.
Citrus Addition: Adding a tablespoon of orange or lemon juice to the sauce can uplift the flavors and add a refreshing note.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

This honey garlic chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. One of the best options is to serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. You can also pair it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For extra crunch, serve the chicken with a side of crispy spring rolls. Additionally, consider garnishing your dish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and color.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Leftover honey garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, simply warm it up in the microwave or reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth to maintain its moisture. If you wish to freeze this dish, make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrients | Amount |
|————|———|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out faster than thighs. To avoid this, you might consider reducing the cooking time to around 8 minutes while still ensuring they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before pressure cooking?

Browning the chicken does enhance the flavor and adds a beautiful color to the final dish. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. The chicken will still be delicious, but the flavor may be slightly less intense.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can make honey garlic chicken on the stovetop as well. Simply follow the same initial steps to brown the chicken, and then add the sauce, cover, and simmer it on low heat for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, consider using skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts, and reduce the amount of honey and sugar in the recipe. Additionally, serve it with steamed vegetables instead of rice, which can help decrease calorie intake.

What side dishes pair well with honey garlic chicken?

Honey garlic chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Some popular options include steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve it with noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb choice.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is an easy and flavorful meal that’s sure to please anyone at the dinner table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, it’s a fantastic option for both busy weeknights and weekend gatherings. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic creates an irresistible dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of Instant Pot cooking while delighting your family with this mouthwatering dish!

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken