Delicious Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken served with rice and vegetables

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a quick and delicious meal. The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that coats tender chicken thighs perfectly. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this recipe cooks faster than traditional methods without sacrificing flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you want a tasty home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

how to make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (4 chicken thighs)
  • Salt
  • 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

Directions:

  1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. Mix all the ingredients for the Honey Garlic Sauce together and stir well. Make sure the honey and sugar dissolve completely. Set aside.
  3. Turn on the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. Once heated, add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Pan-sear the chicken thighs, skin side down first, until both sides are nicely brown.
  4. Leave the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil and then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for a minute.
  5. Pour in the sauce mixture and cover the lid. Select Manual and set to High pressure for 10 minutes.
  6. When the timer beeps, turn to Quick Release. When the valve drops, carefully remove the lid, add the chopped parsley, and serve the chicken with the honey garlic sauce immediately.

how to serve Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Serve Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. The honey garlic sauce drizzled on top adds extra flavor and makes the dish look appealing.

how to store Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

To store leftover honey garlic chicken, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat.

tips to make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

  • Ensure the chicken thighs are evenly coated with salt and pepper for the best flavor.
  • Make sure to deglaze the pot if any bits are stuck to the bottom after searing the chicken. This helps prevent the “burn” notice.
  • Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less honey, depending on your taste.

variations

You can easily modify this recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli to the pot when cooking the chicken. Alternatively, try using chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lighter option. Adding different herbs, like thyme or rosemary, can also change up the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook a bit faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 8-9 minutes on high pressure.

2. What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or noodles, and vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or a fresh salad.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and make the sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.