Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Cilantro, for garnish
• Soft bao buns or rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Start by placing the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. This will be the base for your flavorful pulled chicken.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha. Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring that the chicken is well coated.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the sealing position.
5. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for 15 minutes on high pressure.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
7. Open the lid and remove the chicken from the pot, placing it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
8. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Set the Instant Pot to “Saute” mode, and stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
9. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to coat it in the thickened sauce.
10. Serve the chicken warm in soft bao buns or over rice, garnished with chopped green onions and cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot Asian Pulled Chicken is incredibly versatile. You can serve it in soft bao buns, which are perfect for holding the tender chicken and sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa. You can also use it as a filling for lettuce wraps, adding a refreshing crunch. Don’t forget to top it off with your favorite garnishes, such as pickled vegetables, sesame seeds, or extra sriracha for those who like it spicy!

Tips for Customizing Your Pulled Chicken

One of the great things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add more honey or even a splash of orange juice to the sauce. Want to add some crunch? Consider tossing in some sliced bell peppers or water chestnuts while the chicken cooks. For a smokier taste, try adding a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.

If you’re looking to make this dish even healthier, consider using chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. You can also swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. However, you will need to increase the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked through.

What can I serve with Asian pulled chicken?

This pulled chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in wraps or tacos.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding or omitting the sriracha. For a milder flavor, feel free to leave it out entirely.

This Instant Pot Asian Pulled Chicken is a fantastic solution for busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and minimal prep time, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy a delicious meal that’s ready in no time!