In search of a delicious and incredibly fast dinner solution? Look no further than this amazing Instant Pot Sesame Chicken recipe! It’s super quick, unbelievably easy, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready for stress-free weeknight meals with the magic of your Instant Pot!

Instant Pot Sesame Chicken: Your Go-To for Quick & Flavorful Dinners

Life can get incredibly busy, and finding time to cook a wholesome, delicious meal often feels like a challenge. That’s where the Instant Pot truly shines, transforming kitchen chaos into culinary calm. If you’re constantly seeking dinner inspiration that’s both simple and satisfying, then this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich, savory, and slightly sweet sesame sauce, ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a promise of an effortlessly flavorful meal that the entire family will eagerly gather around the table for.

We absolutely adore this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken, and it’s a staple in our household for good reason. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly practical. The recipe primarily uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs, a cut we almost always have on hand due to their affordability and incredible flavor-absorbing qualities. Beyond the chicken, the sauce ingredients are typically pantry staples – items you likely already have tucked away, making this a spontaneous dinner option any night of the week without a special trip to the grocery store. It’s the perfect blend of convenience, taste, and simplicity.

Mastering Instant Pot Sesame Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this irresistible Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is surprisingly straightforward. If you’re new to Instant Pot cooking, prepare to be amazed by how quickly and efficiently it delivers tender, flavorful results. For those who don’t yet own an Instant Pot, don’t worry – we’ve included stovetop directions below so no one misses out on this incredible meal. But seriously, if you’re looking to simplify your cooking and expand your repertoire of quick dinners, an Instant Pot is an absolute game-changer!

Essential Ingredients for Your Instant Pot Sesame Chicken:

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to unlocking this deliciousness. You’ll need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Cut into 1-inch chunks. Thighs are fantastic for their rich flavor and moist texture, which holds up beautifully under pressure cooking.
• 1 tbsp sesame oil: This is crucial for adding that signature nutty aroma and helping to brown the chicken beautifully.

For the Irresistible Sesame Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Provides the foundational savory, umami flavor. Opt for low-sodium if preferred.
• 1/4 cup honey: Balances the savory notes with a delightful sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze.
• 1/4 cup chicken stock: Adds depth and provides the necessary liquid for the Instant Pot to come to pressure.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for aromatic flavor.
• 1 tbsp grated ginger: Adds a fresh, zesty kick that complements the sesame perfectly.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water: This cornstarch slurry is your secret weapon for thickening the sauce to a perfect, glossy consistency.

And for the perfect finishing touches: a sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions!

Instant Pot Cooking Instructions:

1. Sauté the Chicken: Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the sesame oil and let it heat up. Once warmed, carefully add the chicken chunks in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the chicken on one side for a few minutes until golden, then flip and brown on the other. This step adds a crucial layer of flavor. Once browned, turn off the Instant Pot.
2. Prepare the Sauce & Pressure Cook: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, chicken stock, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Pour this flavorful sauce over the browned chicken in the Instant Pot. Close and seal the lid, making sure the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Set your Instant Pot to cook on “Manual” (or “Pressure Cook”) on HIGH pressure for just 3 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure (typically 8-10 minutes), which is a great opportunity to start cooking your rice or other desired side dishes.
3. Thicken the Sauce & Serve: Once the 3-minute cooking time is complete, carefully perform a “quick release” of the pressure by turning the valve to the “Venting” position using a long wooden spoon or oven mitt to protect your hands from the steam. Once all the pressure has been released and the float valve drops, remove the lid. Turn the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Pour this into the pot with the chicken and sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency – it should become beautifully glossy and coat the chicken.

Serve your delectable Instant Pot Sesame Chicken immediately over fluffy white rice, aromatic coconut rice, or a healthier cauliflower rice option. Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal!

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Sesame Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely, yes! While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my personal preference for this recipe due to their natural juiciness and rich flavor profile, chicken breasts will work wonderfully too. The slightly higher fat content in thighs helps them stay incredibly tender under pressure, but breasts will still yield a delicious meal. The cooking time will remain approximately the same (3 minutes on high pressure), though you might want to cut breast meat into slightly smaller, more uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.

Is this Instant Pot sesame chicken freezer-friendly?

This is fantastic news for meal preppers and busy families: once prepared, this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is entirely freezer-friendly! To ensure optimal quality when freezing, allow the cooked chicken and sauce to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer it to either a heavy-duty freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible, or an airtight freezer-safe container. Label it with the date, and it will freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.

Why Choose the Instant Pot for Sesame Chicken?

The Instant Pot isn’t just a gadget; it’s a culinary superpower, especially for recipes like this sesame chicken. Its ability to create intense flavors and tenderize meat in minutes is unparalleled. The high-pressure environment infuses the chicken with the rich sesame sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Plus, the one-pot nature of this recipe means less cleanup, which is always a win on a busy weeknight. From browning to pressure cooking and thickening the sauce, your Instant Pot handles it all with ease, delivering a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss.

What are the Best Side Dishes for Sesame Chicken?

This Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to side dishes. Classic pairings include steamed white or brown rice, which soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. For a healthier alternative, try cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even a medley of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken. Don’t forget a side of homemade coconut rice for an extra special treat!

I understand that certain times of the year, like September, often bring an intensified level of craziness for many of us, myself included. During these demanding periods, having a repertoire of easy, reliable, and delicious dinners is not just a luxury—it’s an absolute necessity. This Instant Pot Sesame Chicken perfectly fits that bill, offering a comforting and satisfying meal without adding to your daily stress. Trust me when I say this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your rotation! For those who enjoy a little extra kick, a drizzle of sriracha on top adds a fantastic layer of heat.

If you’re loving the convenience and flavor of Instant Pot cooking, be sure to explore some of our other Instant Pot favorites from the blog:

• Spicy Instant Pot Crack Chicken
• Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Soup
• Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

Print Recipe