Effortless Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs: Your Ultimate Meal Prep Solution
Are you searching for a quick, delicious, and healthy weeknight dinner that also works perfectly for meal prep? Look no further! These Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are an absolute game-changer. Featuring succulent chicken thighs bathed in a rich, sticky, and irresistibly sweet and savory sauce, this recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. The magic of the Instant Pot means you can have a gourmet-tasting meal on your table in under an hour, making it ideal for busy individuals and families. Get ready to transform your weekly meal planning with this incredibly simple yet flavorful dish that everyone will love!
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Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Garlic Sesame Chicken
Creating these flavorful Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs is straightforward, thanks to a list of common pantry staples. We’ve also included some excellent substitution options to ensure you can whip up this dish even if you’re missing an ingredient or catering to different dietary needs.
- Sesame oil: This oil provides a distinct nutty aroma crucial for an authentic Asian-inspired flavor profile. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with olive oil, perilla oil, or canola oil, but note that the dish might lose some of its signature fragrance. Dark sesame oil is recommended for its stronger flavor.
- Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are chosen for their tenderness and rich flavor, which holds up wonderfully under pressure cooking. If you’re aiming for a leaner meal, boneless, skinless chicken breast can be used, but reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent it from drying out.
- Soy sauce: A fundamental ingredient for savory depth. For gluten-free options or reduced sodium intake, tamari or coconut aminos are fantastic alternatives that mimic soy sauce’s umami profile effectively. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re mindful of salt content.
- Brown sugar: This adds a beautiful caramel sweetness and helps create that irresistible sticky glaze. Feel free to use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic alternative, or honey, maple syrup, or even regular white sugar with a touch of molasses for a similar flavor and texture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best, most pungent flavor that truly shines in this dish. However, for convenience, jarred minced garlic works well. Remember that jarred garlic might be slightly less potent, so you might add a little extra.
- Ginger: Freshly grated ginger provides a bright, zesty kick that complements the garlic beautifully. If fresh ginger isn’t available, a good quality ground ginger powder can be used. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste, as ground ginger is more concentrated.
- White rice: The perfect absorbent base for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Any variety of white rice, brown rice, or even long-grain rice will work. Adjust cooking instructions according to your preferred rice type.
- Cornstarch: This is our secret weapon for creating that desired thick, glossy, and sticky sauce. If you need an alternative, wheat flour (in a slurry), arrowroot powder, potato starch, or rice flour can all be used in similar quantities to achieve a comparable thickening effect.
Broccoli Slaw for a Refreshing Side
To balance the richness of the chicken, we pair it with a vibrant and crunchy broccoli slaw. Here are the components and their possible substitutions:
- Broccoli slaw: This pre-shredded mix of broccoli stems, carrots, and red cabbage is incredibly convenient. In a pinch, a regular coleslaw mix will work, or you can even finely shred your own cabbage and carrots.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet acidity to the slaw. White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even fresh lemon or lime juice can be used as substitutes, each offering a slightly different but equally refreshing zing.
- White sugar: Sweetens the slaw dressing. Honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup are all excellent natural sweeteners that can be used interchangeably.
- Sesame oil (for slaw): Similar to the chicken, this adds an aromatic touch. Canola oil can be used if sesame oil is unavailable, though the depth of flavor will differ.
- Ground dry ginger: Provides a subtle warmth to the slaw. For a different flavor profile, consider a tiny pinch of allspice, nutmeg, or cinnamon, depending on your preference.
- Salt & pepper: Essential flavor enhancers, always to taste. Adjust as needed for the perfect balance.
Mastering the Recipe: How to Make Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Making these Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs is surprisingly simple and comes together quickly, thanks to the efficiency of your pressure cooker. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:
- Sauté the chicken thighs: Begin by adding sesame oil to your Instant Pot and activating the sauté function. Once hot, brown the boneless, skinless chicken thighs for 1-2 minutes per side. This crucial step helps develop a deeper, richer flavor in the chicken before pressure cooking.
- Add in the sauce ingredients: After browning, carefully pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger root. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the chicken thighs are coated in this aromatic mixture. Avoid scraping the bottom of the pot too vigorously if anything has stuck from searing; the pressure cooking will help release it.
- Cook on high pressure: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the sealing valve is in the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) setting and set the cooking time to 3 minutes on high pressure. Remember that your Instant Pot will take an additional 5-10 minutes to come up to pressure before the 3-minute countdown begins, so total cooking time is closer to 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare the rice and broccoli slaw: While the chicken is cooking under pressure, you can efficiently prepare your side dishes. Cook the white rice with water and a touch of butter in a rice cooker for perfectly fluffy grains. Simultaneously, in a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, white sugar, sesame oil, and ground dry ginger along with salt and pepper until the sugar dissolves. Pour this vibrant dressing over your broccoli slaw mix and toss until well combined. Set both aside until the chicken is ready.
- Perform a quick release of the pressure: Once the Instant Pot’s cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick pressure release by flicking the steam release valve to the “Venting” position using a long-handled spoon or tongs to avoid steam burns. Once all the pressure has been released and the float valve drops, you can safely open the lid.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water to create a smooth slurry. With the Instant Pot still on “Sauté” (or you can turn it on again if it turned off), slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the chicken sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a beautiful, glossy consistency. This creates that signature sticky glaze.
- Serve and enjoy!: Divide the fluffy white rice and refreshing broccoli slaw evenly among your meal prep containers or plates. Add two tender garlic sesame chicken thighs to each, generously drizzling with the luscious sticky sauce from the Instant Pot. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired for an extra pop of flavor and presentation. Your delicious and healthy meal is ready to be savored!
Complementary Side Dishes for Your Garlic Sesame Chicken
These garlic sesame chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides. While I personally love to serve them with fluffy white rice and a fresh broccoli slaw to provide a balanced and complete meal, don’t hesitate to get creative and customize your plates based on your cravings or what you have on hand. The leftover chicken itself is fantastic for repurposing – shred it for wraps, use it as a flavorful salad topper, or even mix it into stir-fries.
If you’re looking for more side dish options to complement the rich, sweet, and savory chicken, here are some excellent ideas that will elevate your dining experience:
- Crispy Green Bean Fries: A healthier and fun alternative to traditional fries, offering a delightful crunch.
- Broccoli Salad: If you love broccoli slaw, a full broccoli salad with its creamy dressing and added textures will be a hit.
- Coconut Rice: For an extra layer of tropical flavor and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes.
- The Best Arugula Salad: A simple, peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Think asparagus, snap peas, bell peppers, or carrots for a simple, healthy addition.
- Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice: If you’re looking for low-carb or high-protein grain alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Instant Pot Chicken Recipe
Here are some common questions and helpful answers to ensure your Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time.
For this specific recipe, we recommend cooking the boneless, skinless chicken thighs for 3 minutes at high pressure. While this might seem like a very short active cooking time, it’s important to remember that the Instant Pot also needs time to build pressure before the actual cooking countdown begins. This “come to pressure” phase typically takes an additional 5-10 minutes, bringing your total time from sealing the pot to opening the valve closer to 15-20 minutes. This method ensures the chicken thighs are incredibly tender, juicy, and thoroughly infused with the delicious garlic sesame sauce.
The secret to this chicken’s incredible flavor lies in its perfectly balanced sweet and sticky garlic sesame sauce. It’s crafted from a simple yet powerful combination of aromatic sesame oil, savory low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for dietary alternatives), rich brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization, finely minced garlic for a pungent kick, and freshly grated ginger root for a bright, warm undertone. While fresh ginger offers the most vibrant flavor, a pinch of ground ginger powder can be used if fresh is not readily available. The cornstarch slurry added at the end is what transforms this flavorful liquid into a thick, glossy glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Each serving of this delicious garlic sesame chicken, when prepared as directed, contains approximately 404 calories. This makes it a satisfying and substantial option for both lunch and dinner, especially when paired with rice and broccoli slaw. It’s a fantastic meal prep choice that provides ample energy and flavor without being overly heavy, helping you stay on track with your healthy eating goals throughout the week.
Absolutely! This Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thigh recipe is specifically designed with meal prepping in mind. The chicken and sauce hold up exceptionally well in the refrigerator, making it a perfect component for your weekly lunches or dinners. You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy convenient, flavorful meals for days to come.
Storing and Reheating Your Meal Prep Bowls
One of the best features of these Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs is how well they store and reheat, making them perfect for your weekly meal prep. After cooking, allow the chicken, rice, and broccoli slaw to cool completely before portioning them into airtight meal prep containers. Store these bowls in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, ensuring fresh and delicious meals all week long.
When it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options. If you prefer your broccoli slaw cold and crisp, simply remove it from the container before warming the chicken and rice. To reheat the chicken and rice effectively in the microwave, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over them before heating. This helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents the rice from drying out, ensuring a better texture and flavor. Microwave for about 2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. You can also reheat in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth until warmed.
Freezing Leftover Garlic Sesame Chicken
If you’ve made a larger batch or have any leftover garlic sesame chicken (without the rice or slaw), it freezes beautifully, allowing you to enjoy a quick and easy meal even further down the line. Portion the cooked chicken and its delicious sauce into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the chicken. Properly stored, it can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chicken, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a few minutes. As with refrigerated leftovers, when reheating in the microwave, it’s always a good idea to sprinkle a little water over the chicken. This simple trick helps to rehydrate the chicken and prevents that common “leftover chicken” dryness, ensuring it tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.
More Delicious Chicken Thigh Recipes to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed these Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs, you’re in for a treat! Chicken thighs are an incredibly flavorful and versatile cut of meat, perfect for a wide range of quick, healthy, and budget-friendly meals. Discover more ways to enjoy chicken thighs with these fantastic recipes:
- Meal Prep Thai Basil Chicken: Aromatic and vibrant, this Thai Basil Chicken is another excellent meal prep option, bursting with fresh herbs and spices.
- Perfect Baked Chicken Thighs: Simple, classic, and always satisfying. Learn how to achieve perfectly tender and crispy baked chicken thighs every time.
- Honey Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs: For those days when you need a truly hands-off meal, these slow cooker honey garlic chicken thighs deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort.
- Korean Chicken Meal Prep Bowls: Explore bold and savory Korean flavors with these delicious and convenient meal prep bowls.
- More Healthy and Delicious Chicken Thigh Recipes: Dive into an entire collection of creative and healthy recipes centered around versatile chicken thighs.
Essential Meal Prep Tools for This Recipe
To make your meal prepping experience as smooth and efficient as possible, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here are some of my favorite recommendations for preparing and storing your Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs:
- Grab some glass meal prep bowls if you plan on transforming these Instant Pot Chicken Thighs into your convenient weekly lunches. Glass containers are durable, microwave-safe, and excellent for keeping food fresh.
- I source all my high-quality, free-range chicken from Butcher Box, which offers convenient frozen delivery right to your door. Fresh, ethically sourced meat makes a significant difference in taste!
- Simplify your side dish preparation by getting a rice cooker. It makes perfectly fluffy rice every time with minimal effort, freeing you up to focus on other parts of your meal.
- For dietary needs, this is the brand of tamari I frequently use, and I highly recommend this low-sodium soy sauce for flavor without excessive salt.
Garlic Sesame Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
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Ingredients
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp gingerroot, grated
Broccoli slaw
- 1 package broccoli slaw
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp white sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil (or canola oil)
- 1 tsp ground dry ginger
- 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper
Rice
- 1 cup dry white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp butter
Cornstarch slurry
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
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Add sesame oil to Instant Pot and turn Instant Pot into saute mode. Saute chicken thighs for 1-2 minutes per side, then add soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic and gingerroot and stir slightly amongst thighs.
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Place the lid on and press the pressure cook button. Select the high setting, then set to cook for 3 minutes – Instant Pot will take about 5-10 minutes to preheat then the 3 minutes to pressure cook.
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While chicken is cooking, cook rice with water and butter in a rice cooker and then mix together rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, dry ginger & salt in a small bowl until well combined and sugar is dissolved. Pour over and toss with broccoli slaw then set aside.
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Make the cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch and water together in a small bowl. Do a quick release of the pressure when Instant Pot is done by flicking the switch at the top with a spoon, then open lid when safe to do so. Gently stir in the cornstarch slurry.
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Add two chicken thighs to each meal prep bowl and drizzle a little bit of sauce overtop, garnishing with sesame seeds if desired. Divide the rice and broccoli slaw evenly among bowls. Serve and enjoy!
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Notes
Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Sprinkle some water over top then reheat the chicken and rice for 2 minutes.
Freeze the leftover chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight then reheat.
Nutrition
