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Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is juicy, sweet, and sticky, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. It is easy to make, cooks fast in the Instant Pot, and everyone in the family will love it. Serve with rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs boneless skinless breasts work too
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder or fresh ginger grated
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch plus 2 tablespoons water for thickening
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • onions chopped green for garnish

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Cut into bite size pieces if desired.
  2. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ketchup, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Pour over chicken in the Instant Pot. Add 1/4 cup water.
  3. Close the Instant Pot lid and set to Manual / Pressure Cook for 10 minutes. Let naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully do a quick release.
  4. Mix cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water. Turn Instant Pot to Sauté and stir in cornstarch mixture. Cook 2-3 minutes until sauce is thick and shiny.
  5. Serve over rice or noodles. Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top.

Notes

Tips

  • Double the sauce for extra sticky flavor.
  • Add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers during last 2 minutes of Sauté or steam separately.
  • Store cooked chicken in meal prep containers in fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Variations

  • Spicy Teriyaki: Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to the sauce.
  • Sweet Soy: Replace honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness.
  • Teriyaki Bowls: Serve with quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.