Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken: Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

If you’re craving a delicious, savory meal that’s packed with flavor but easy to make, Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken should be your next go-to recipe. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory. Using an Instant Pot makes the entire process quick and effortless, delivering a mouthwatering dinner in less than 40 minutes!

In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of making Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken, from choosing the best ingredients to tips for customizing the recipe. Whether you’re new to using the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and adaptable to your taste.

Why Choose Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken?

The convenience of the Instant Pot is one of the main reasons why this recipe is so appealing. Here’s why you should make it:

• Quick Cooking Time: In under 40 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, juicy chicken ready to serve.
• Minimal Prep Work: The ingredients are simple, and there’s no need for complicated marinating or stove-top cooking.
• Healthy Option: By making the sauce from scratch, you control the ingredients. Unlike store-bought versions, you won’t find any high-fructose corn syrup or excessive sodium in this recipe.
• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in the Instant Pot, so cleanup is a breeze. You’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Ready to dive into this tasty and easy-to-make recipe? Let’s start with the ingredients and instructions!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need many ingredients, but the few you do need combine to create a perfectly balanced flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Key Ingredients

• Chicken Breasts: This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and protein-packed base. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: A fundamental ingredient for any teriyaki dish. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt content, making the meal healthier.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick that balances out the sweetness of the sauce. It’s essential for creating the authentic flavor of teriyaki.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that gives the sauce a subtle sweetness without the use of processed sugar.
• Brown Sugar: A small amount of brown sugar helps round out the flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a savory zing to the dish, making the sauce rich and flavorful.
• Fresh Ginger: Ginger is a key ingredient that brings the teriyaki sauce to life, giving it that signature aromatic and spicy flavor.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce, cornstarch is used to create a glossy, smooth texture that coats the chicken perfectly.

For Serving:

• Cooked Rice: Serve with your choice of rice – brown rice for added fiber or jasmine rice for a classic texture.
• Optional Garnishes: Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a burst of freshness and crunch.

Instructions for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Making Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a homemade meal that tastes better than takeout in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Lightly Coat the Instant Pot: Use a bit of nonstick spray to coat the bottom of your Instant Pot.
2. Add Chicken Breasts: Place 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 medium-sized breasts) at the bottom of the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the following:
   • ⅔ cup low-sodium soy sauce
   • ⅓ cup water
   • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
   • 3 tablespoons honey
   • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
2. Pour Over Chicken: Once the sauce ingredients are well mixed, pour the sauce over the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken in the Instant Pot

1. Set the Instant Pot: Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.”
2. Pressure Cook: Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes (manual setting). If you’re using frozen chicken, cook for 12 minutes instead.
3. Release Pressure: After the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. Then, carefully quick-release the remaining pressure.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

1. Transfer Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the Instant Pot and place them on a plate. Allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes until you can safely handle it.
2. Shred the Chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 5: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. Sauté Mode: Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and let the liquid begin to simmer.
2. Add Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup of water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Continue whisking until the sauce thickens into a glossy, smooth consistency. This should only take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Return Chicken to the Pot: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to coat it with the thickened teriyaki sauce.
2. Serve: Serve the teriyaki chicken with your choice of rice or noodles. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Notes on Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure the best possible outcome and to help you troubleshoot any issues, here are some important notes:

Storage Tips:

• To Store: Keep leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the chicken thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it to your desired consistency.

Frozen Chicken:

• If you want to use frozen chicken breasts or thighs, simply increase the cooking time by a few minutes. The Instant Pot will cook the chicken perfectly, even from frozen.

Customizations:

• For Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
• For Extra Flavor: You can add some chili flakes for a touch of heat, or even stir in some sesame oil for a deeper flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides. You can serve it with:

• Brown Rice for a healthy fiber boost.
• Jasmine Rice for a classic, fragrant side.
• Vegetables like sautéed broccoli or roasted carrots for a complete meal.
• Noodles like soba noodles or ramen-style noodles for a twist on the traditional pairing.

Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Now that you know how to make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken, let’s explore a few tips and tricks to ensure your dish is perfect every time. These pointers will help you adjust the recipe to your liking, troubleshoot common issues, and customize the dish to suit your family’s preferences.

Tip 1: Choosing the Right Chicken

While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, there are several other options depending on your taste and dietary needs:

• Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a richer, juicier cut of meat. Simply adjust the cooking time to 12 minutes for boneless thighs, and ensure to release the pressure quickly.
• Frozen Chicken: If you’re using frozen chicken, this recipe works just as well! The Instant Pot will cook it perfectly, but remember to add a few extra minutes (about 12-14 minutes total). Also, ensure the chicken is not stuck together; this will allow for even cooking.

Tip 2: Adjust the Sauce to Your Taste

The teriyaki sauce in this recipe is balanced between sweet and savory, but you can customize it to your preferences:

• Less Sweet: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
• More Tangy: If you enjoy a bit of acidity, add an extra tablespoon of rice vinegar to the sauce.
• Spicy: If you like some heat, add chili flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Tip 3: Double the Sauce for More Flavor

If you love extra sauce to pour over rice or noodles, feel free to double the ingredients for the sauce. This will create a more generous portion of teriyaki sauce to coat the chicken and your sides.

Tip 4: Using the Instant Pot’s Sauté Feature

The Sauté function on your Instant Pot is perfect for thickening sauces and adding final touches. When the sauce is simmering after you add the cornstarch slurry, give it a minute or two of stirring to ensure it reaches the desired consistency. If you find the sauce too thick, simply add a little water or chicken broth to thin it out.

Tip 5: Make it a Complete Meal

To make this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken a full, balanced meal, serve it with nutritious sides that complement the sweet-savory flavor of the chicken. Consider:

• Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach would be excellent choices.
• Rice Alternatives: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice or a vegetable-based rice alternative.
• Noodles: Pair the chicken with ramen noodles, soba noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a twist on traditional rice.

Tip 6: Serve with Garnishes

A few simple garnishes can elevate the dish:

• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add freshness and a mild crunch.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and texture contrast.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro can add a fragrant herbal note, balancing the richness of the teriyaki sauce.

Storing and Reheating Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Knowing how to store and reheat your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken ensures you can enjoy leftovers without losing flavor or texture. Here are the best methods for storage and reheating:

Storing Leftovers

1. In the Refrigerator: After the chicken has cooled down, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.
2. In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the teriyaki chicken for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and when you’re ready to use it, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating the Chicken

1. Microwave: To reheat individual portions, use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
2. Stovetop: Reheat the chicken on the stovetop over low heat. Add a little water or broth to keep the sauce from becoming too thick while reheating. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

Nutritional Breakdown of Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not only flavorful but also offers a balanced nutritional profile. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients per serving (without rice):

Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: With 40 grams of protein per serving, this recipe is a great choice for muscle repair and overall health.
• Low in Fat: The recipe uses lean chicken breasts, keeping the fat content low.
• Natural Sweeteners: By using honey and a small amount of brown sugar, this recipe avoids processed sugars commonly found in takeout versions of teriyaki chicken.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination. Here are some easy, delicious ways to complete your meal and make it feel extra special.

1. Pair It with Rice or Noodles

A classic choice is fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all that glossy teriyaki sauce. If you’re looking for something a little different, serve it over fried rice or even stir-fried noodles for an Asian-inspired feast.

2. Add Steamed Vegetables

Complement your dish with steamed broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Not only do these veggies add color and crunch, but they also balance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce beautifully. This is a great way to make instant pot teriyaki chicken and vegetables a one-pot meal.

3. Garnish for a Restaurant-Style Finish

Sprinkle on some sesame seeds for a nutty flair, or add chopped green onions for a burst of freshness. For a tropical twist, toss in pineapple chunks—perfect if you made a honey teriyaki chicken instant pot version.

4. Serve with a Fresh Salad

Lighten things up by serving your teriyaki chicken alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy sesame vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory chicken.

5. Wrap It Up

For a fun twist, shred the chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. Add a few crunchy veggies, drizzle with extra sauce, and you’ve got a portable lunch or dinner option.

These serving suggestions are simple yet versatile, allowing you to tailor your meal to your mood or occasion. No matter how you serve it, Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!