Introduction
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen preparing dinner after a long day? If so, you’ll love this Instant Pot Asian Grilled Chicken recipe. It combines the convenience of the Instant Pot with delicious Asian flavors, making it the perfect option for quick weeknight meals. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor that your family will adore.
The beauty of using an Instant Pot is that it cuts down on cooking time significantly while still retaining the moisture and tenderness of the chicken. The Asian-inspired marinade elevates this simple dish, providing a sweet and savory taste that pairs perfectly with rice or steamed vegetables.
Let’s dive into how to make this delectable meal!
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
- Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Set aside the leftover marinade for later use.
- Turn on your Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function. Allow it to heat up for a few minutes.
- Add the chicken breasts to the pot and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- After browning the chicken, pour the reserved marinade over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and adjust the timer to 8 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- If desired, you can thicken the remaining sauce by using the “Sauté” function again. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it reduce for about 5 minutes.
- Serve the sliced chicken over rice or vegetables, drizzling the thickened sauce on top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Why Choose Instant Pot for Grilling Chicken?
Using an Instant Pot for grilling chicken is not only time-efficient but also ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Traditional grilling often leads to dry chicken if not monitored carefully. However, with the Instant Pot, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Additionally, this method allows you to infuse the chicken with rich flavors from the marinade. The pressure cooker helps in penetrating the spices and sauces deeply into the meat, resulting in a dish that is bursting with taste.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Asian Grilled Chicken
To ensure your Instant Pot Asian Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
1. **Marination Time:** Don’t rush the marination process. Even if you’re short on time, aim for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge.
2. **Searing:** Searing the chicken before pressure cooking adds an extra layer of flavor. Make sure your Instant Pot is hot enough to get a good browning.
3. **Thickening Sauce:** If you prefer a thicker sauce, remember to simmer it after removing the chicken. This will intensify the flavors and create a delicious glaze.
4. **Serving Suggestions:** Serve with jasmine rice or quinoa, and pair with steamed broccoli or snap peas for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Instant Pot Asian Grilled Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it can last for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in the Instant Pot. However, you will need to increase the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes for frozen breasts.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
This Asian grilled chicken pairs well with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even in a wrap with fresh veggies.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
4. Can I grill this chicken instead of using the Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can marinate and then grill the chicken on a barbecue or indoor grill for a smoky flavor. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Asian Grilled Chicken is a game-changer for quick weeknight meals. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious, flavorful dinner that the whole family will love. It’s a perfect recipe for busy individuals who still want to enjoy homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!
