Name: Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅓ cup honey; ⅓ cup soy sauce; 3 garlic cloves; 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp sriracha sauce; 2 lbs chicken breast; ¼ cup cornstarch; 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil; ¼ cup chicken broth; 2 Green Onions; 1 tsp Sesame seeds

This instant pot honey-garlic chicken recipe brings together the rich, sweet flavors of honey and soy sauce with a delightful kick from sriracha sauce. It's a quick and easy way to prepare a flavorful meal that will impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Photos of Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe

While most ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples, sriracha sauce and sesame seeds may not be in every household. Both are often found in the international or Asian foods aisle of your local supermarket. If you don't have chicken broth, you can use water as a substitute, though it may slightly affect the flavor.

Ingredients For Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe

Honey: Provides a natural sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken.

Soy sauce: Adds a savory, umami flavor to balance the sweetness.

Garlic: Fresh cloves lend a sharp, aromatic depth to the dish.

Ketchup: Offers a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Sriracha sauce: Brings a spicy kick to the dish, adjustable to your heat preference.

Chicken breast: Lean protein that absorbs the flavorful marinade well.

Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken, giving it a slight crispiness when sautéed.

Vegetable oil: Helps sauté the chicken to a golden brown.

Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce, deglazing the pot.

Green onions: Garnish that adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.

Sesame seeds: Garnish that adds a subtle nutty flavor and texture.

One reader, Crin Frankel says:

This instant pot honey-garlic chicken recipe is a game-changer. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the chicken is incredibly tender. It's quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. My family loved it!

Crin Frankel

Essential Techniques for Making Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken

How to use an Instant Pot: Explanation on selecting the sauté function, deglazing the pot, setting high pressure, and using the quick-release method. How to deglaze: Explanation on scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. How to sauté: Explanation on cooking chicken pieces in hot oil until browned. How to quick-release pressure: Explanation on carefully releasing pressure using the quick-release method according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How To Make Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken

Instant pot honey-garlic chicken is coated with perfectly balanced savoury, sweet, and garlicky syrup and cooked to tender-juicy perfection.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓cuphoney
⅓cupsoy sauce
3garlic cloves,minced
3tbspketchup
2tbspsriracha sauce
2lbschicken breast,cut into 1-inch cubes
¼cupcornstarch
2tbspvegetable oil
¼cupchicken broth
2green onions,chopped
1tspsesame seeds,or as desired

Instructions

Combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, and sriracha sauce in a bowl; mix well and set aside.
In a large bowl, place chicken pieces and cornstarch; toss to combine.
Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as instant pot) and select the Saute function. Add oil until hot then cook ½ of the chicken for about 3 minutes. Flip and cook for about 2 minutes.
Transfer chicken to a plate and repeat with remaining chicken. Pour chicken broth into the empty instant pot then cook for about 2 minutes, scraping up the brown bits with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot. Turn the instant pot off.
Return chicken to the pot and pour honey mixture on top. Stir to coat with sauce. Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions and set the timer for about 2 minutes, allowing 10 minutes for pressure to build.
Release pressure carefully for about 5 minutes using the quick-release method according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Unlock and remove the lid. Serve chicken sprinkled with green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Calories: 303.96kcal
Fat: 14.35g
Saturated Fat: 3.31g
Trans Fat: 0.15g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.98g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.96g
Carbohydrates: 18.56g
Fiber: 0.33g
Sugar: 13.22g
Protein: 25.02g
Cholesterol: 72.80mg
Sodium: 725.38mg
Calcium: 26.48mg
Potassium: 345.56mg
Iron: 1.24mg
Vitamin A: 30.82µg
Vitamin C: 1.40mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken

When sautéing the chicken in the Instant Pot, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cooking in batches ensures that each piece gets a nice sear, which adds depth of flavor to the final dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Honey-Garlic Chicken in an Instant Pot

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure out honey, soy sauce, and other ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.

Cut chicken evenly: Ensure chicken breast pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.

Quick sauté batches: Sauté the chicken in smaller batches to speed up the browning process.

Instant pot deglazing: Use chicken broth to quickly deglaze the pot, saving time on cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe

honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative to honey.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic to maintain the garlic flavor.
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Mix tomato paste with a bit of vinegar and sugar to mimic the tangy sweetness of ketchup.
sriracha sauce - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce has a similar heat and garlic flavor profile to sriracha.
chicken breast - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a good alternative to chicken breast.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and can be used in the same quantity as cornstarch.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier option and works well for sautéing and cooking.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used to maintain a similar depth of flavor while keeping the dish vegetarian.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives provide a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds add a similar crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.

Presentation Tips for Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken breast in elegant, bite-sized pieces to highlight the delicate flavors and ensure a refined dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add a touch of color and texture.
Layer flavors: Drizzle a small amount of the honey-garlic sauce over the chicken just before serving to enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile.
Add texture: Include a side of lightly sautéed vegetables such as baby bok choy or snap peas to provide a contrast in texture and a pop of vibrant color.
Use elegant plating: Arrange the chicken on a pristine white plate, allowing the colors and textures to stand out. Use a brush of sriracha sauce on the plate for an artistic touch.
Incorporate height: Stack the chicken pieces slightly to create an appealing height on the plate, giving the dish a more dynamic and sophisticated look.
Highlight freshness: Add a few fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the plate to emphasize the freshness and elevate the overall presentation.
Balance the elements: Ensure that each plate has a balanced amount of chicken, sauce, and garnishes to create a harmonious and visually appealing dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Honey-Garlic Chicken in an Instant Pot

Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ketchup, and sriracha sauce.
Large bowl: This is where you'll toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch.
Instant Pot: A multi-functional pressure cooker used for sautéing the chicken and cooking it under high pressure.
Saute function: A setting on the Instant Pot that allows you to brown the chicken before pressure cooking.
Wooden spoon: Essential for scraping up the brown bits from the bottom of the Instant Pot to deglaze the pot.
Plate: Use this to temporarily hold the sautéed chicken before returning it to the Instant Pot.
Measuring cups: Needed for accurately measuring the honey, soy sauce, and chicken broth.
Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the ketchup, sriracha sauce, and vegetable oil.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves.
Knife: For chopping the green onions.
Cutting board: Use this as a surface for chopping the green onions.
Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken pieces while sautéing.
Serving dish: To serve the finished honey-garlic chicken, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Honey-Garlic Chicken

To store leftover honey-garlic chicken, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating refrigerated honey-garlic chicken, place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten the chicken if needed.
For longer storage, you can freeze the honey-garlic chicken. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen honey-garlic chicken, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a little water or chicken broth if needed to help restore moisture.
Pro tip: Portion the honey-garlic chicken into individual serving sizes before freezing for convenient meal prep and quick reheating later on.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey-Garlic Chicken

The best way to reheat leftover instant pot honey-garlic chicken is to use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method will help to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out.
Another great option is to reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stove. Add a little bit of chicken broth or water to the skillet and heat over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help to keep the chicken moist and will also allow you to crisp up the skin if desired.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat the chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and place the chicken in the basket. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help to crisp up the skin and keep the chicken moist.
For a quick and easy option, you can also reheat the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help to keep the chicken moist and will also allow you to crisp up the skin if desired.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover chicken, try slicing it up and adding it to a stir-fry with some fresh vegetables and a little bit of the leftover honey-garlic sauce. This is a great way to repurpose your leftovers and create a whole new meal.

Interesting Trivia About Honey-Garlic Chicken

A fun fact about this instant pot honey-garlic chicken recipe is that the combination of honey and soy sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, which is a hallmark of many Asian-inspired dishes.

Budget-Friendly Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken

The instant pot honey-garlic chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breast, soy sauce, and honey are affordable and often found in most kitchens. The use of an instant pot ensures quick cooking, saving time and energy. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15.

Is This Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe Healthy?

The honey-garlic chicken recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy:

The recipe contains a significant amount of honey and ketchup, which are high in sugar. Consuming too much added sugar can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
Soy sauce is high in sodium, and excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems.
The recipe calls for frying the chicken in vegetable oil, which can add extra calories and unhealthy fats to the dish.

However, the recipe also has some positive aspects:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source, which is essential for maintaining and building muscle mass.
Garlic has been shown to have various health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey and ketchup used in the sauce, or replace them with lower-sugar alternatives like sugar-free ketchup or a small amount of natural sweetener like stevia.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Instead of frying the chicken, try baking or grilling it to reduce the amount of added oil and calories.
Increase the amount of garlic used in the recipe to boost its health benefits.
Serve the honey-garlic chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add more nutrients and fiber to the meal.
Use whole grain rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Instant Pot Recipe

This recipe for honey-garlic chicken in an Instant Pot is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and sriracha creates a rich, tangy glaze that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The use of cornstarch ensures a nice, crispy exterior, while the quick pressure cooking keeps the meat juicy. Green onions and sesame seeds add a fresh, aromatic finish. It's a quick, flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, though a touch of ginger could elevate it even further.

Enhance Your Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Butter Rice: Garlic Butter Rice: Imagine the fluffy grains of rice infused with the rich, aromatic essence of garlic and a touch of creamy butter. This side dish will soak up the delectable honey-garlic sauce from the chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will dance on your palate.

Asian Cucumber Salad: Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp, refreshing cucumbers tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing with a hint of sesame oil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This salad provides a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, savory chicken, making each bite a delightful experience.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Picture perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, caramelized to perfection with a hint of balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the honey-garlic chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Mango Avocado Salsa: A vibrant mix of juicy mango, creamy avocado, and zesty lime juice, this salsa adds a burst of tropical freshness to your meal. The sweetness of the mango complements the honey in the chicken, while the avocado provides a luscious, creamy texture.

Coconut Jasmine Rice: Coconut Jasmine Rice: Envision fragrant jasmine rice cooked in coconut milk, giving it a subtle, sweet aroma and a creamy texture. This side dish pairs beautifully with the honey-garlic chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience with its exotic flair.

Similar Instant Pot Chicken Recipes to Try

Teriyaki Chicken: Dive into the sweet and savory world of teriyaki chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breast marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, then cooked to perfection. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Garlic Butter Chicken: Indulge in the creamy, garlicky goodness of garlic butter chicken. Tender chicken breast is cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Sweet and Sour Chicken: Experience the perfect balance of flavors with sweet and sour chicken. Juicy chicken breast is coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, featuring notes of pineapple and bell peppers. This dish is a delightful mix of sweet, sour, and savory.

Lemon Garlic Chicken: Brighten up your dinner table with lemon garlic chicken. This zesty dish combines chicken breast with a refreshing lemon garlic sauce, creating a burst of citrusy flavor. Pair it with roasted potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Orange Chicken: Savor the citrusy delight of orange chicken. Tender pieces of chicken breast are coated in a vibrant orange sauce, delivering a sweet and tangy punch. Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a delicious and comforting dish.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with Honey-Garlic Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs perfectly with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top them off with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any gathering and are sure to be a hit.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with Bruschetta. This classic appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a burst of flavor. The fresh ingredients and crispy bread make this a refreshing start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent Chocolate Lava Cake with a molten center that oozes rich, velvety chocolate with every bite. This dessert is a showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a luxurious treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience. Garnish with fresh berries and a mint leaf for an added touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Consider a zesty Lemon Meringue Pie that balances tart lemon curd with a sweet, fluffy meringue topping. This classic dessert is a refreshing end to any meal, offering a burst of citrus flavor that cleanses the palate. The buttery, flaky crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the meringue adds a light, airy texture. Serve chilled and garnish with lemon zest curls for a visually appealing and delicious treat. This pie is perfect for spring and summer gatherings, bringing a touch of sunshine to your table.

Why trust this Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe:

This instant pot honey-garlic chicken recipe is a must-try for its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats the tender chicken breast beautifully. The use of an instant pot ensures the chicken is cooked quickly and evenly, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Plus, the addition of sriracha sauce adds a delightful kick, while the green onions and sesame seeds provide a fresh and crunchy finish. Trust this recipe for a delicious and hassle-free meal.

If you've tried this delicious Instant Pot Honey-Garlic Chicken Recipe, head over to the Recipe Sharing section and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and might even add a bit more flavor since they tend to be juicier.

How spicy is this dish with the sriracha sauce?

The sriracha adds a nice kick, but it's not overwhelmingly spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, you can reduce the amount or leave it out altogether.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! You can use a slow cooker or cook it on the stovetop. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Just toss them in when you add the chicken back to the pot.