Name: Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 pieces chicken breasts (cut into 1" pieces); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/3 cup honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 3/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 6 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; Salt & pepper (to taste); Fresh chives or scallions (chopped, for garnish (optional)); Fresh parsley (to taste for garnish (optional))

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that will have your family raving? Look no further than this Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe. This dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce that’s perfect over rice or with steamed vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can whip up a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Let’s dive right into why this recipe should become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

Top Reasons to Make Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
One-Pot Wonder: The Instant Pot means less cleanup, as everything is cooked in one place.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that brings the chicken to life.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add more garlic to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavor profile appeals to even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredient Checklist

3 chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/3 cup honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon lemon juice
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh chives or scallions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Fresh parsley to taste for garnish (optional)

What’s in the Gear List

Instant Pot: The star of the show! Any model will work for this recipe.
Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken and mincing the garlic.
Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work effortless.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the proportions just right.
Serving Spoon: For serving that delicious honey garlic chicken.

Build Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Begin by turning on your Instant Pot and selecting the “Sauté” function. Once it’s hot, add the olive oil. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the pot, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the chicken is slightly browned on all sides.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, as this can lead to a bitter flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, water, and lemon juice. Pour this mixture over the sautéed chicken and garlic in the Instant Pot. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to “sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to “venting.”

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Once the pressure is released, open the pot and switch back to the “Sauté” function. Stir in the cornstarch mixture, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the honey garlic chicken over rice or alongside vegetables, garnished with fresh chives, scallions, or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Make It Diet-Friendly

Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb option.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Reduced Sugar: Substitute half of the honey with a sugar-free sweetener.
Paleo-Friendly: Replace cornstarch with arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce.

Behind the Recipe

This Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe was inspired by my love for quick meals that don’t compromise on flavor. The classic combination of honey and garlic has always been a favorite in my household, and with the Instant Pot, it becomes effortless to bring this dish to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family or prepping for meal prep, this dish delivers every time, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Storing Tips & Timelines

Leftover honey garlic chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to increase the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes. Make sure to allow for a natural pressure release for best results.

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or noodles for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! To adapt the recipe for a slow cooker, sauté the chicken and garlic in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce before cooking. This will give it a nice kick without overpowering the sweet and savory flavors.

Next Steps

Ready to give this Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe a try? Gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a meal that is both delicious and satisfying. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag your friends to spread the love for this easy recipe!

With its sweet and tangy sauce and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option for the week ahead, this recipe checks all the boxes. Enjoy your cooking adventure and savor every bite of this delightful dish!