Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option, look no further than this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe! It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts simmered in a homemade teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory. Whether you’re serving it over rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for Asian-inspired cuisine. Plus, it’s ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. The convenience of the Instant Pot allows for perfectly cooked chicken in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. The rich flavors of the teriyaki sauce, combined with the juicy chicken, create a mouthwatering dish that your whole family will love. And let’s not forget how customizable it is! Serve it with your favorite grains or vegetables for a wholesome meal that can fit into any dietary preference.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 medium breasts)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch stirred together with 1/4 cup water to create a slurry
• Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• Cooked brown rice, quinoa, noodles, cauliflower rice, or vegetables for serving

What’s in the Gear List

To make this recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Instant Pot – the star of the show!
• Sharp knife – for chopping the garlic and ginger
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements
• Mixing bowl – to prepare the cornstarch slurry

Build Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Cut them into bite-sized pieces if desired, which can help them cook more evenly and absorb the delicious teriyaki sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk until well blended and the sugar is dissolved.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot

Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the sauce mixture over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Open the lid and switch the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken over your choice of cooked brown rice, quinoa, noodles, or vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Dig in and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

If you’re looking to make this dish vegan or vegetarian-friendly, you can easily swap out a few ingredients:

• Replace the chicken with cubed tofu or tempeh.
• Use a plant-based honey alternative or maple syrup in place of honey.
• Ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free if needed, or use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Avoid overcooking the chicken; it can become dry. Stick to the cooking times provided.
• Be careful not to skip the cornstarch slurry, as it helps thicken the sauce to the right consistency.
• Using regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium can result in a dish that’s too salty.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and microwave until heated through, or reheat in a saucepan over low heat.

Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time to 15 minutes on high pressure, and ensure the chicken is fully cooked through before serving.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with brown rice, quinoa, noodles, or even stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it alongside 20 Minute Teriyaki Salmon Bowls for variety!

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it.

How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or brown sugar, or by reducing the amount of soy sauce for a less salty flavor.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken, you might also love these recipes:

• Peach Bbq Pulled Chicken Sliders
• Cheesy Bbq Chicken Pasta Casserole

Let’s Eat

This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s bound to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!

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