Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Do you crave the delightful taste of a savory and sweet dish that requires minimal effort? Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a perfect solution! This dish combines the tenderness of chicken thighs with the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and a hint of spice, all cooked effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Utilizing the Instant Pot means you can enjoy tender, flavorful chicken in record time. The combination of honey and garlic creates a glaze that’s sweet, savory, and a little bit spicy, making it a favorite for meals at any time of day. Plus, this recipe is a wonderful option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, as it requires minimal prep and cleanup.

How to Make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Making Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a straightforward process that anyone can master. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Below are the ingredients and directions to guide you through this culinary delight.

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs. (750g) chicken thighs (approximately 4 chicken thighs)
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 tablespoons cooking oil (divided)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon sugar (or brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons water (or chicken broth for more flavor)
3 dashes cayenne pepper (adjust for spiciness to taste)

Directions

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set them aside to allow the seasoning to soak in.
In a separate bowl, mix all the ingredients for the Honey Garlic Sauce together. Stir until everything is combined well, ensuring that the honey and sugar dissolve completely. Set this sauce aside for later.
Turn on the sauté mode on your Instant Pot. Once it’s heated, add 1 tablespoon of the cooking oil.
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pot, skin side down first, and pan-sear them until each side is nicely browned. This step adds great depth to your chicken’s flavor.
Leave the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, then add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté just a bit to release its aromatic flavors.
Pour the Honey Garlic Sauce over the chicken and close the lid of the Instant Pot. Select the Manual setting and set the pressure to High for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete and the pot beeps, perform a Quick Release by carefully turning the valve to let the steam escape. When the valve drops, remove the lid cautiously.
Finish by adding the chopped parsley for garnish and serve your Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken immediately.

Pro Tips for Success with Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Choose Bone-In Thighs: For extra flavor, consider using bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless. This will add richness to your dish.
Marinate the Chicken: If you have extra time, marinating the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for an hour before cooking can enhance the taste significantly.
Adjust the Spice Level: The cayenne pepper can be adjusted based on your preference for spice. If you enjoy a stronger kick, add more or include a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor of your sauce compared to pre-minced options. Fresh herbs also elevate the dish.
Pair with Sides: Consider cooking rice or steamed vegetables alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

Flavor Variations for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

BBQ Twist: Add a bit of your favorite barbecue sauce to the honey garlic sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Mango Ginger: Incorporate mango puree and ginger into your sauce for a refreshing tropical twist.
Teriyaki Style: Substitute the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce and add sesame seeds for a nuttier flavor.
Honey Mustard: Mix equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Citrus Zest: Add some orange or lemon zest to the sauce to give it a bright, refreshing flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Serve the honey garlic chicken over a bed of fluffy rice—white or brown works great. You can also add some roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. If you’re looking for a fun presentation, serve it in lettuce wraps or over quinoa for added texture!

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Refrigeration: Leftover Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————–|————|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates| 35 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |

FAQ About Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts for this recipe, although it’s important to note that they can dry out more easily than thighs. If using breasts, consider cutting them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook quickly and remain tender.

Can I use other sweeteners instead of honey?

Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good alternatives to honey if you’re looking for different flavors or have dietary restrictions. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary slightly.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is perfect for meal prep! It holds well in the refrigerator for several days and can be packed easily in individual containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious flavor without the gluten.

Can I cook this dish without an Instant Pot?

While this recipe is tailored for the Instant Pot, you can make honey garlic chicken in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. Just ensure to adjust the cooking times accordingly—chicken thighs typically take longer to cook through on the stovetop than in the Instant Pot.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken is a delicious and quick meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. With its sweet and savory flavors and tender chicken, it’s perfect for any day of the week. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. So why wait? Give this recipe a try tonight, and enjoy a delightful homemade dish that the whole family will love!