Introduction
If you’re looking for easy Asian chicken recipes in the Instant Pot for quick dinners, you’ve come to the right place! The Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy cooks, allowing you to whip up delicious meals in no time. With its ability to infuse flavors and tenderize chicken quickly, you can enjoy authentic Asian cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.
This article will guide you through several mouthwatering recipes, tips for using your Instant Pot effectively, and answers to common questions. Whether you crave spicy, savory, or sweet flavors, these recipes will become staples in your dinner rotation.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the broccoli and bell peppers on top of the chicken, but do not stir.
- Close the lid, ensuring the vent is sealed. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir this into the chicken mixture to thicken the sauce.
- Serve hot over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious Asian chicken dish!
More Easy Asian Chicken Recipes
Aside from the delightful chicken stir-fry we just prepared, there are many more easy Asian chicken recipes in the Instant Pot that can elevate your dinner game. Here are a few more ideas you can try:
1. Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken
This recipe features chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce. It’s perfect when served over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables.
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup water
- Green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Place chicken thighs in the Instant Pot and pour the teriyaki sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder over them.
- Add water and stir to combine. Close the lid and seal the vent.
- Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, allow a natural release for 5 minutes.
- Release any remaining pressure and remove the chicken. Shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix well with the sauce. Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds over rice.
2. Instant Pot Chicken Curry
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, this Instant Pot chicken curry is a must-try. The chicken is cooked in a fragrant coconut milk sauce with a blend of spices, creating a comforting and hearty dish.
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast, cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry paste
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add a bit of oil. Sauté the diced onion until translucent.
- Add garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the cubed chicken and cook for about 5 minutes, browning all sides.
- Stir in the curry paste, coconut milk, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Close the lid and set to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Perform a quick release once done.
- Serve the curry hot over rice and garnish with cilantro.
Instant Pot Tips for Asian Chicken Recipes
Using an Instant Pot can be intimidating if you are new to it. Here are some tips to ensure your Asian chicken recipes turn out perfectly every time:
1. Proper Sealing
Always ensure the lid is properly sealed to maintain pressure during cooking. A loose lid can lead to uneven cooking and may not create the desired tender texture.
2. Sauté Before Pressure Cooking
Sautéing your ingredients before pressure cooking helps to build depth of flavor. It caramelizes the meat and vegetables, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
3. Layer Ingredients Wisely
When cooking, layer your ingredients according to cooking time. Place denser vegetables like carrots and potatoes at the bottom and more delicate ones like broccoli on top to ensure even cooking.
4. Natural Release vs. Quick Release
Understanding when to use natural release and quick release is crucial. Natural release allows the flavors to meld, while quick release is ideal for delicate foods that might overcook.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken in these recipes?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in Instant Pot recipes. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes, and ensure the chicken is separated for even cooking.
2. Can I substitute soy sauce for gluten-free options?
Absolutely! You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce without compromising flavor.
3. How do I adjust the spice level in these recipes?
You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili paste or crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference.
4. Can these recipes be made in advance?
Yes, you can meal prep these recipes and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
With these easy Asian chicken recipes in the Instant Pot for quick dinners, you can enjoy flavorful meals that come together effortlessly. From stir-fries to curries, the possibilities are endless. The Instant Pot not only saves time but also locks in flavors, making your dinners deliciously satisfying. So grab your Instant Pot and start cooking up these delightful recipes today!
