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Easy Crispy Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

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A quick and easy sesame chicken recipe using the Instant Pot for juicy chicken with a crispy coating and a sweet, tangy sesame sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium optional)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken by whisking together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger in a large bowl. Toss chicken pieces in marinade and let sit for at least 10 minutes.
  2. Beat the egg in a bowl. Place cornstarch in another bowl. Dip each marinated chicken piece into the egg, then coat with cornstarch, shaking off excess.
  3. Place a trivet inside the Instant Pot and add 1 cup water. Arrange coated chicken pieces on the rack in a single layer. Seal lid and pressure cook on high for 6 minutes. Quick-release pressure when done.
  4. While chicken cooks, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and chili flakes in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low until warm, then stir in cornstarch slurry. Cook until sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon oil. Add cooked chicken in batches and sear until golden and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
  6. Return all crispy chicken to skillet, pour sauce over, and toss gently to coat. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Do not skip the crisping step after pressure cooking to achieve the perfect crunchy texture. Use quick-release to avoid overcooking. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to loosen. For gluten-free, substitute tamari for soy sauce and arrowroot powder for cornstarch. Air fryer can be used instead of skillet for crisping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Instant Pot, sesame chicken, crispy chicken, quick dinner, pressure cooker, easy recipe, family meal

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/easy-crispy-instant-pot-sesame-chicken-recipe-perfect-for-quick-dinners/