Instant Pot Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

The first time I cooked honey teriyaki chicken in my Instant Pot, I couldn’t believe how easy it was. I still remember the aroma filling my kitchen, drawing my family in like a magnet. It creates that distinct balance of sweet and savory that makes everyone gather around the table. I often find myself making this dish when I’m pressed for time but want to serve something that feels special.

This Instant Pot Honey Teriyaki Chicken recipe not only simplifies the process but also enhances the flavors. As the chicken thighs absorb the rich teriyaki sauce, the result is a dish that rivals your favorite take-out. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip this up for dinner any night of the week. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated; this recipe proves that.

Join me as I guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable dish.

Instant Pot Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Fundamentals

Instant Pot cooking takes a lot of guesswork out of the equation. It simplifies meal preparation and ensures perfectly tender chicken every time. For this honey teriyaki chicken recipe, we specifically use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs contain more fat than breasts, which lends a rich flavor and moist texture.

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors. The honey gives a sweet kick, while soy sauce introduces umami depth. Rice vinegar rounds it out, adding a hint of tang. Garlic elevates the dish’s aroma, making your kitchen smell heavenly while it cooks.

Preparation/setup

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Measure out the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. These will create the marinade for your chicken. Don’t forget that you’ll need cornstarch and water for the sauce thickening phase later on.

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. This initial step helps in developing flavor and making your dish even more delicious. Once you have your chicken thighs ready and the marinade mixed, you can proceed to cooking.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Green onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. Add the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Pour the mixture over the chicken.
3. Close the lid and seal the valve. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add to the cooking liquid in the Instant Pot and set to sauté until the sauce thickens.
7. Slice the chicken and return it to the pot to coat in the sauce.
8. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Techniques for Perfect Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Technique

Using an Instant Pot elevates the cooking process. Unlike traditional methods, the Instant Pot locks in moisture, helping the chicken remain juicy. The pressure cooking also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

The sauté function is key in this recipe. It creates a lovely caramelization in the sauce right before you serve. This extra layer of flavor enhances your dish, making it taste like it’s been simmering all day.

Tips/Tricks

Always feel free to customize the sauce to your preference. If you want a spicier kick, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or some ginger. It’s easy to elevate the flavor profile without complicating the process.

When slicing the chicken after cooking, cutting against the grain ensures tenderness. It also presents better for serving. Keeping your garnishes simple with sesame seeds and green onions makes your dish not just delicious but visually appealing, too.

Perfecting Your Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Perfecting results

To ensure your chicken turns out perfect every time, consider how you prep your ingredients. Fresh garlic creates a better flavor than pre-minced varieties. Similarly, use high-quality soy sauce for that authentic taste.

If you want a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to experiment with the cornstarch slurry. Adjust the ratio according to your preference until you reach your desired thickness. Fine-tuning these details makes all the difference in creating your ideal dish.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your chicken isn’t tender enough, it may need a tad more time in the Instant Pot. Always ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. If you’re short on time, consider cutting the chicken into smaller chunks before cooking, which can reduce cook time.

Should you want to switch things up, try adding vegetables right into the Instant Pot for a one-pot meal. Broccoli or bell peppers blend seamlessly with this honey teriyaki sauce. They add nutrients and deepen the dish’s flavor profile.

Serving and Storing Honey Teriyaki Chicken

Serving/presentation

Once your Instant Pot Honey Teriyaki Chicken is ready, it’s time to plate. The way you present the dish adds to the overall dining experience. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or steamed broccoli to absorb all that delicious sauce.

A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only adds a crunch but also imparts freshness. The contrasting colors bring the dish to life, enticing everyone at the table.

Pairings/storage

While this recipe shines on its own, you can certainly pair it with steamed rice or a side salad. The sweetness of the honey teriyaki will play beautifully alongside a fresh, tangy salad.

For storage, let any leftovers cool down completely before transferring them to an airtight container. In the fridge, your Honey Teriyaki Chicken will last up to four days. Reheat it gently on the stove or microwave for best results.

If you want to freeze the dish, store it in a freezer-safe container. Allow it to defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Instant Pot Honey Teriyaki Chicken masterfully combines ease and flavor. This dish is destined to be a family favorite, turning any weeknight into a taste sensation. Enjoy this quick and simple way to delight your taste buds.

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