Introduction
The Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are chicken thighs that are made with the most incredible honey garlic sauce and allowed to cook in an Instant Pot. These chicken thighs are sweet, delicious, soft, and juicy. Dinner, from the very beginning to the very end, will be ready in thirty minutes!
CHICKEN WITH HONEY AND GARLIC INSTANT POT POT
This basic recipe for honey garlic chicken thighs is packed with a great deal of flavor and involves very little effort on the part of the chef while yet delivering a great deal of taste. Because it involves very little effort to prepare and because it is so delicious that it virtually slips off the bone, this dish continues to be one of my favorites, despite the fact that it only requires a few components to be prepared.
That I am not referring to any old chicken here is not something that ought to come as a surprise to anyone. To be more specific, I am referring to that particular variation of garlic chicken that finds the optimum equilibrium between sweet and savory, soft and juicy, in a manner that is akin to how the best recipe for bourbon chicken can master that blend. In addition, it can be cooked in around twenty minutes, which is something that causes my heart to leap with thrill and anticipation. I always prepare enough so that I have at least some leftovers for the lunch that I will have the following day. In addition to that, I always make extra so that I can have some leftovers.
After you have finished preparing the sauce, you can proceed to brown the chicken thighs directly within your instant pot. One pot means one meal, and there are fewer dishes to clean up afterward.
My instant pot was only able to accommodate four chicken thighs at a time since I opted to use bone-in chicken thighs. However, if you use boneless chicken thighs, you would be able to fit anywhere from six to eight thighs inside of it at the same time.
This will be followed by an introduction to the cooking liquid that will be used for the thighs once they have finished browning.
HOW TO MAKE HONEY GARLIC CHICKEN IN THE INSTANT POT
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the convenience of pressure cooking with the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of honey and garlic. This dish has become a favorite for many home cooks due to its simplicity, quick cooking time, and the tender, juicy results that can be achieved with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Historical Context and Popularity
Honey garlic chicken has roots in various cuisines around the world. The combination of sweet honey and pungent garlic is prevalent in many Asian dishes, particularly Chinese cuisine. Over time, this flavor profile has been adapted and embraced globally, leading to numerous variations and interpretations.
The introduction of the Instant Pot revolutionized home cooking by significantly reducing the time required to prepare complex dishes. The Instant Pot’s ability to pressure cook, sauté, slow cook, and more, all in one appliance, has made it an indispensable tool in modern kitchens. Combining the convenience of the Instant Pot with the beloved flavors of honey garlic chicken has resulted in a recipe that is both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Benefits of Using Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are a popular choice for this recipe due to their rich flavor and tender texture. Compared to chicken breasts, thighs have a higher fat content, which keeps them moist and flavorful during the cooking process. The dark meat of chicken thighs is also more forgiving than white meat, making it harder to overcook and dry out. Additionally, chicken thighs are often more economical than breasts, making them a budget-friendly option for families.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– **Chicken Thighs**: 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– **Olive Oil**: 2 tablespoons
– **Garlic**: 4-6 cloves, minced
– **Honey**: 1/4 cup
– **Soy Sauce**: 1/4 cup (use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels)
– **Chicken Broth**: 1/4 cup
– **Apple Cider Vinegar**: 2 tablespoons
– **Cornstarch**: 1 tablespoon (optional, for thickening)
– **Water**: 2 tablespoons (optional, for thickening)
– **Salt and Pepper**: to taste
– **Sesame Seeds**: for garnish (optional)
– **Green Onions**: chopped, for garnish (optional)
### Equipment Needed
– **Instant Pot**: Any model with sauté and pressure cook functions
– **Tongs**: For handling the chicken
– **Mixing Bowl**: For preparing the sauce
– **Whisk**: For mixing the cornstarch slurry if thickening the sauce
– **Serving Platter**: For serving the finished dish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
1. **Season the Chicken**: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Heat the Instant Pot**: Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up until shimmering.
3. **Sear the Chicken**: Place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, in the Instant Pot. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce
1. **Sauté the Garlic**: Add the minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
2. **Combine Sauce Ingredients**: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, chicken broth, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture into the Instant Pot, stirring to combine with the garlic.
Step 3: Pressure Cook the Chicken
1. **Add the Chicken**: Return the seared chicken thighs to the Instant Pot, placing them in the sauce. Arrange them so that they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
2. **Pressure Cook**: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the pressure cook or manual function and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure.
3. **Natural Release**: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. Then, carefully perform a quick release to vent any remaining pressure.
Step 4: Optional Sauce Thickening
1. **Remove the Chicken**: Using tongs, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set them on a serving platter.
2. **Thicken the Sauce**: If you prefer a thicker sauce, set the Instant Pot to the sauté function. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
1. **Garnish**: Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken thighs. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
2. **Enjoy**: Serve the honey garlic chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Boneless Chicken Thighs
If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, the cooking time in the Instant Pot can be reduced to 8 minutes. Boneless thighs are equally delicious and cook slightly faster than bone-in thighs.
Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce mixture. This will give the dish a pleasant spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Low-Sodium Option
To make a lower-sodium version of this dish, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount of added salt. You can also substitute part of the soy sauce with coconut aminos, which is a lower-sodium alternative with a similar flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Version
Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This adaptation makes the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Sweet and Sour Twist
For a sweet and sour variation, add 2 tablespoons of ketchup to the sauce mixture. This adds a tangy element that complements the sweetness of the honey and the savory garlic.
Nutritional Benefits
Honey garlic chicken thighs offer a balanced nutritional profile. Chicken thighs provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The honey adds natural sweetness and energy-boosting carbohydrates, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and cardiovascular benefits.
When using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, be mindful of the higher fat content. While this contributes to the dish’s rich flavor and moist texture, those watching their fat intake might prefer to use boneless, skinless thighs or remove the skin before cooking.
Tips for Success
1. **Even Searing**: Ensure the chicken thighs are patted dry before searing to achieve a nice, even crust. This step is crucial for developing depth of flavor.
2. **Avoid Overcrowding**: When searing the chicken, do not overcrowd the Instant Pot. Sear in batches if necessary to ensure each thigh gets a proper sear.
3. **Natural Release**: Allowing a natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from becoming tough.
4. **Adjusting Sauce Consistency**: If the sauce is too thin, use the cornstarch slurry to thicken it. If it’s too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until the desired consistency is reached.
5. **Flavor Enhancements**: Feel free to experiment with additional seasonings like ginger, red pepper flakes, or a splash of lemon juice to tailor the flavor to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Honey garlic chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
– **Steamed Rice**: The sauce from the chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy white or brown rice, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
– **Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side that complements the rich sauce.
– **Roasted Vegetables**: A mix of roasted broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers adds a nutritious and colorful touch to the meal.
– **Green Salad**: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the savory chicken.
– **Noodles**: Serve the chicken over a bed of noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover honey garlic chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop, making for an even tastier dish the next day.
Freezing
If you plan to freeze the chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described below.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. To reheat in the microwave, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it