Instant Pot Sesame Chicken

Forget takeout! This Instant Pot sesame chicken is the perfect solution for a quick, savory dinner that tastes even better than your favorite restaurant’s version. The rich combination of honey, soy and sesame brings deep, delicious flavors, all while the Instant Pot makes cooking a breeze. Serve it over fluffy rice, and you’ve got a weeknight dinner everyone will rave about!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Sesame Chicken

• Sesame oil: The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and depth to the dish. Start with 1 tablespoon, then add more if needed for browning the chicken.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: You’ll cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating. You can substitute the breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Honey: The honey adds a sweetness that balances the salty and umami notes of the soy sauce. Maple syrup works as a substitute if you prefer a different sweetness.
• Soy sauce: The soy sauce provides a savory base with rich umami. Tamari is a good gluten-free option.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a sharp, aromatic punch. Jarred minced garlic works in a pinch, but fresh gives the best flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Red pepper adds a bit of heat to balance the sweetness. Adjust the amount to suit your ideal spice level.
• Cornstarch: The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce into a glossy, clingy coating for the chicken.
• Cooked rice: Serve the sesame chicken over hot cooked rice to soak up the savory sauce. Jasmine or basmati rice are both great options.
• Sesame seeds: These add a crunchy garnish and a final hit of sesame flavor. You can toast the sesame seeds for extra nuttiness.
• Thinly sliced green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Directions

Step 1: Brown the chicken

Jackie Alpers for Taste of Home

Select the saute or browning setting on a 6-quart electric pressure cooker, and adjust to medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, brown the chicken in batches, adding more oil as needed. Once all the chicken has browned, press cancel. Return all the chicken to the pressure cooker.

Editor’s Tip: Browning the chicken in batches prevents overcrowding, giving each piece space for a nice golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the sauce

Jackie Alpers for Taste of Home

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, water, garlic and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the browned chicken in the pressure cooker. Lock the lid in place, and close the pressure-release valve. Set the Instant Pot to pressure-cook on high for four minutes. Then quick-release the pressure.

Step 3: Thicken the sauce

Jackie Alpers for Taste of Home

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir the cornstarch slurry into the pressure cooker. Select the saute setting again, and adjust to low heat. Simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, one to two minutes. Serve the chicken over hot cooked rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and, if desired, green onions.

Jackie Alpers for Taste of Home

Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Variations

• Step up the heat: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle Sriracha sauce over the finished dish for extra heat.
• Add vegetables: Stir in some fresh or frozen broccoli florets just before pressure cooking. They’ll steam to perfection in the Instant Pot.
• Try different proteins: Substitute shrimp for the chicken. Cook the shrimp in the sauce on the saute setting for three to four minutes, or until they turn pink.

How to Store Instant Pot Sesame Chicken

Cool the leftovers to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to four days.

How long does Instant Pot sesame chicken last?

Leftover sesame chicken can be safely stored in the fridge for three to four days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s warmed through.

Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Tips

Jackie Alpers for Taste of Home

How do you thicken the sauce for sesame chicken?

The best way to thicken the sauce is with a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with cold water, then add it to the sauce while simmering until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Can you use chicken thighs for Instant Pot honey sesame chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add more fat, making them juicier and richer in flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need an extra minute.

What do you serve with Instant Pot sesame chicken?

Instant Pot sesame chicken is great served over rice or noodles. You can also pair it with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or a crisp cucumber salad for freshness.