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If you've ever craved a quick, flavorful dinner, Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken might be just what you need. This dish combines the sweetness of honey with the savory punch of garlic, resulting in a meal everyone will enjoy. But that's just the beginning; there are several delicious variations to explore, each bringing its own twist to this classic dish. Curious to find out how you can elevate your weeknight dinners?
Key Takeaways
- Classic Honey Garlic Chicken is quick to prepare using an Instant Pot, combining honey, garlic, soy sauce, and chicken thighs for a family favorite.
- Variations like Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli or Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken offer flavorful twists for diverse meal options.
- Cooking techniques include searing chicken in the Instant Pot before adding sauces to enhance flavor and moisture retention.
- For a richer sauce, thicken the honey garlic mixture with a cornstarch slurry during the sauté phase after pressure cooking.
- Adjust sweetness and add vegetables for nutrition; garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds enhances both flavor and presentation.
Classic Honey Garlic Chicken
Classic Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a family favorite. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce in no time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that's both delicious and satisfying. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a rich glaze that complements the chicken beautifully. Serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and ground ginger to create the marinade. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Add the marinated chicken, along with the remaining marinade, into the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté setting, stir in the slurry, and cook until the sauce thickens. Return the chicken to the pot, coating it in the sauce.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider searing the chicken in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting before adding the marinade. This will give the chicken a nice caramelized crust.
Additionally, you can adjust the level of sweetness by varying the amount of honey to suit your taste. Don't forget to garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal!
Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli
Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful dish that perfectly blends savory and sweet flavors. The tender chicken pieces are coated in a luscious honey garlic sauce, while the broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color to the plate. Cooking this meal in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also infuses the ingredients with incredible flavor as they steam together.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a wholesome, delicious dinner that the whole family will love. Plus, the combination of chicken and broccoli makes it a healthy option that doesn't compromise on taste. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by mixing the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and grated ginger in a bowl to create the sauce. Place the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they're well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. Once the pressure has released, carefully open the lid and add the broccoli florets on top of the chicken. Seal the lid again and cook on high pressure for an additional 2 minutes. Release the pressure once more and remove the lid.
Extra Tips:
For a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry and stir it into the chicken and sauce after cooking. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes on the sauté function until thickened.
You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra pop of flavor and presentation. Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken and Broccoli!
Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken pieces, vibrant vegetables, and a sweet yet savory sauce, all cooked quickly in your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering coating that perfectly complements the stir-fried veggies, making it a family favorite. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but is also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals.
You can easily customize the vegetables to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand. With the Instant Pot, you'll achieve perfectly cooked chicken and crisp-tender vegetables in no time, making this stir-fry a quick and convenient option for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 cup snap peas
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
- Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add olive oil. Once the oil is heated, add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned but not fully cooked.
- Next, add the minced garlic, honey, and soy sauce to the pot, stirring well to coat the chicken. Then, add the broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas on top of the chicken mixture. Close the lid, ensuring the vent is sealed, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, release the pressure manually.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and stir it into the pot. Turn the sauté mode back on and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens. Serve your honey garlic chicken stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey and soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms based on your preference.
If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. Enjoy your quick and easy meal!
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making it a favorite among spicy food enthusiasts. The combination of honey and garlic creates a rich glaze that coats the chicken beautifully, while the addition of spices elevates the flavor profile, delivering a satisfying punch with every bite. This recipe isn't only easy to make but also takes advantage of the Instant Pot's speed and convenience, ensuring a delicious meal in no time.
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken is sure to please. Serve it with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables for a complete meal, or toss it into a salad for a lighter option. The versatility of this dish allows for customization, so feel free to adjust the heat level to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
To begin, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add sesame oil. Once hot, add the chicken in batches, searing until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sriracha, and ground ginger, stirring well to combine. Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it's well coated with the sauce. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Remove the chicken and set aside. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then add it to the pot. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode again and cook the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens.
Return the chicken to the pot, coating it in the thickened sauce before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
For the best results, use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor, and feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha depending on your heat preference. If you like a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer in the pot after thickening. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp salad to balance the sweetness and spice. Enjoy your flavorful Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken!
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic and barbecue sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family. Cooking it in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also retains all the delicious flavors, making each bite incredibly tender and juicy.
With just a few simple ingredients, you'll be able to whip up this mouthwatering meal in no time. The Instant Pot guarantees that the chicken is cooked evenly and remains moist, while the honey garlic sauce adds a rich depth of flavor that everyone will love. Serve it with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
To prepare Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken, start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them until they're browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, combine honey, soy sauce, barbecue sauce, and minced garlic, stirring well to create the sauce.
Return the chicken thighs to the pot, guaranteeing they're coated with the sauce. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before switching to a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
When it's safe to open, serve the chicken hot, drizzled with the honey garlic sauce, and garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Extra Tips: For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce by adding more honey or barbecue sauce according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick!
Honey Garlic Chicken Tacos
Honey Garlic Chicken Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos, combining the sweet and savory flavors of honey garlic chicken with fresh and crunchy toppings. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare the chicken in a fraction of the time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle.
The honey garlic sauce infuses the chicken with a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with your favorite taco toppings. Whether you prefer fresh vegetables, creamy avocado, or zesty lime, these tacos are versatile and can be customized to your liking. Serve them with warm tortillas for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Toppings: shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by placing the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour this mixture over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated.
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water, and add it to the remaining sauce to thicken it for a couple of minutes.
- Once the chicken is shredded and the sauce is to your liking, warm your tortillas and assemble your tacos with shredded chicken and your desired toppings.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste even more.
Additionally, feel free to get creative with your toppings – adding jalapeños for heat or crumbled queso for creaminess can elevate your tacos. For a fresh twist, lime juice drizzled over the top before serving adds a zesty kick that complements the honey garlic chicken perfectly.
Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken Tacos!
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender chicken and a sweet, savory glaze. Cooking them in an Instant Pot guarantees that they stay juicy and flavorful, while also reducing the cooking time considerably.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that caramelizes beautifully during the cooking process.
Serve these chicken thighs over rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love. Get ready to enjoy the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, if using cornstarch)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear them for about 4-5 minutes until they're golden brown. Flip the chicken thighs over and pour in the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ground ginger.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
If you desire a thicker sauce, remove the chicken thighs and set the Instant Pot back to sauté mode. Combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the sauce until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will enhance the taste even further.
Additionally, if you prefer boneless chicken thighs, you can substitute them in this recipe, adjusting the cooking time to about 8 minutes on high pressure. Always guarantee the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F for food safety. Enjoy your meal!
Honey Garlic Chicken With Rice
Honey garlic chicken with rice is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavor of garlic. This recipe isn't only quick and easy to prepare in an Instant Pot, but it also results in tender, juicy chicken that's full of flavor. The rice absorbs all the delightful sauce, making it a perfect one-pot meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Using the Instant Pot allows you to infuse the chicken with the honey garlic sauce while cooking the rice simultaneously. This method saves time and minimizes cleanup, making it a convenient choice for anyone looking to whip up a delicious dinner in no time. Serve this dish with a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Turn on the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add sesame oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they're browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the honey and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken to the pot and add the chicken broth. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- After removing the chicken, add the rinsed jasmine rice to the pot. Stir to mix with the sauce, ensuring the rice is submerged. Close the lid again, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for an additional 6 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
Extra Tips:
When cooking honey garlic chicken with rice, it's important to rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly before adding it to the pot to remove excess starch. This will help achieve a fluffier texture.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey according to your taste preferences. For added depth of flavor, you can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during the cooking process. Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a fresh finish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for these recipes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. The Instant Pot will effectively cook it through, ensuring you still enjoy a delicious meal even with frozen chicken.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Honey Garlic Chicken?
What's better than a delicious main dish? Perfect side dishes! You can pair honey garlic chicken with steamed broccoli, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that'll impress everyone at your table.
How Do I Store Leftover Honey Garlic Chicken?
To store leftover honey garlic chicken, let it cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for up to three months. Just thaw it before reheating!
Can I Substitute Honey With a Different Sweetener?
Just as Midas turned everything to gold, you can transform your dish by substituting honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Each sweetener's unique flavor enhances your recipe, so choose one that suits your taste!
What Are the Best Instant Pot Settings for These Recipes?
For the best Instant Pot settings, use the "Pressure Cook" function at high pressure for 10-15 minutes, depending on the chicken pieces. Always verify your pot has enough liquid for ideal pressure and flavor.
