Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Experience the ultimate weeknight convenience with this incredibly quick and easy Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe. In less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy homemade teriyaki sauce – a meal that will instantly become a family favorite.

Whipping up teriyaki chicken in your Instant Pot isn’t just a dinner option; it’s a game-changer for busy households. This method ensures every piece of chicken is infused with a rich, savory teriyaki flavor, resulting in a dish that’s wonderfully moist, unbelievably tender, and utterly delicious. Forget dry, bland chicken – the pressure cooker locks in all the goodness!

This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, like my Instant Pot White Rice, or toss it with your favorite noodles for a complete, satisfying meal. It’s ideal for those hectic evenings when time is short but you still crave a homemade, flavorful dinner. Get ready to add this amazing recipe to your regular rotation!

Since moving out of the bustling city to a more serene property, the luxury of ordering takeout on a whim has become a rarity. That familiar craving for a quick, flavorful Asian-inspired meal, however, hasn’t diminished in the slightest. This situation has led me to rediscover and reinvent beloved traditional recipes, transforming them into incredibly fast and convenient dishes using my trusty Instant Pot.

Teriyaki chicken is one such classic that has been gloriously updated. What once might have been a stovetop stir-fry or a slow-cooked endeavor now comes together with astonishing speed in the pressure cooker, making it perfect for satisfying those spontaneous takeout cravings right at home. I promise, this rendition will impress you and your family just as much as it has ours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can certainly be used as a leaner alternative to thighs. However, due to their lower fat content, chicken breasts cook faster and can dry out more easily if overcooked. To achieve the best results with chicken breasts, I recommend reducing the high-pressure cooking time slightly. Please refer to the specific notes in the recipe card for adjusted cooking times to ensure your chicken breasts remain tender and juicy.

Is it possible to adapt this recipe for the slow cooker?

Yes, you can absolutely make a delicious version of this teriyaki chicken in your slow cooker! While the Instant Pot offers speed, the slow cooker excels at hands-off, all-day simmering. For added flavor and a slightly crisper exterior, I recommend quickly sautéing the chicken pieces in a skillet on the stovetop before transferring them to the slow cooker. This browning step adds depth of flavor that a slow cooker alone can’t achieve. Then, simply cook the chicken on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Remember to add the cornstarch slurry towards the end of the cooking time to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While the pressure cooker is often lauded for its ability to cook frozen foods efficiently, for this particular recipe, I would advise against using frozen chicken, especially if it’s a large block or whole pieces frozen together. The initial sautéing step is crucial for developing flavor and achieving a desirable texture. Starting with frozen chicken would make browning difficult and could lead to uneven cooking. For the best results, it’s always recommended to thaw your chicken first. If you must use frozen, ensure it’s already cut into individual bite-sized pieces and not clumped together, allowing for more even sautéing and cooking.

Can this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe be doubled?

Absolutely! This recipe scales wonderfully, making it perfect for feeding a larger crowd, ensuring you have delicious leftovers for meal prep, or simply catering to bigger appetites. While the sautéing portion might take a little longer to brown all the chicken pieces in batches, the pressure cooking time remains the same. The Instant Pot efficiently cooks the ingredients regardless of quantity, as long as you don’t exceed the maximum fill line. Simply double all the ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy more of this incredible teriyaki chicken without needing to adjust the cooking duration.

Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki: A Family Favorite

Ingredients for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Crafting the perfect homemade teriyaki chicken requires a balance of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Flavorful Teriyaki Sauce:

• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Forms the savory foundation of our sauce. Using low sodium allows you to control the saltiness.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and brightens the overall flavor profile.
• Brown Sugar: Provides that signature sweetness and a hint of molasses for depth.
• Minced Garlic: Essential for a pungent, aromatic kick that defines Asian cuisine.
• Minced Ginger: Offers a fresh, spicy warmth that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Honey: Another layer of natural sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze.
• Sesame Oil: Delivers a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor, crucial for authentic teriyaki.
• Water: Thins the sauce to the right consistency and helps create pressure in the Instant Pot.
• Sichuan Chili Flakes (Optional but Recommended): For a nuanced heat and a touch of regional authenticity. Regular chili flakes can be substituted if Sichuan are unavailable.

For the Succulent Chicken:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Thighs are preferred for their rich flavor and ability to remain moist under pressure.
• Salt: To season the chicken before cooking, enhancing its natural taste.
• Black Pepper Powder: Adds a mild, peppery note to the seasoned chicken.
• Oil: For sautéing the chicken, developing a flavorful sear.

For Thickening After Pressure Cooking:

• Corn Starch: Creates a smooth, glossy, and thick sauce.
• Water: To create a cornstarch slurry, preventing lumps when added to the hot sauce.

For Garnish:

• Sesame Seeds: Adds a pleasant crunch and visual appeal.
• Sliced Spring Onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color.

How to Make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken at home is simpler than you think with the Instant Pot. Follow these easy steps:

1. **Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, sesame oil, water, and Sichuan chili flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then set this aromatic mixture aside.
2. **Season the Chicken:** Take your bite-sized boneless, skinless chicken thighs and season them generously with salt and black pepper powder. This initial seasoning is key for deep flavor.
3. **Sauté the Chicken:** Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTE function and allow it to heat up until it displays “Hot.” Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the inner pot.
4. **Brown the Chicken:** Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot oil. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they change color and are lightly browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor.
5. **Add the Sauce:** Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce mixture over the browned chicken in the Instant Pot. Stir gently to ensure all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in the delicious sauce.
6. **Pressure Cook:** Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and ensure the pressure valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the PRESSURE COOK (or Manual) button and set the cooking time to 7 minutes on HIGH PRESSURE.
7. **Natural Pressure Release:** Once the pressure-cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Do not manually release the pressure immediately. After 10 minutes, carefully switch the pressure valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
8. **Cancel Sauté:** Open the lid and select the CANCEL button to turn off the Instant Pot’s heating function.
9. **Thicken the Sauce:** Select the SAUTE button again to bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
10. **Prepare Cornstarch Slurry:** In a small, separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until no lumps remain and it’s completely dissolved.
11. **Thicken the Sauce (Cont.):** Once the sauce in the Instant Pot begins to bubble, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while continuously whisking the sauce. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth, thick consistency.
12. **Simmer to Thicken:** Allow the sauce to bubble gently for about one minute, or until it reaches your desired thickness. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
13. **Finish and Garnish:** Select the CANCEL button to turn off the Instant Pot. Stir in the sesame seeds.
14. **Serve:** Serve your hot, flavorful Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken immediately over steamed rice and alongside steamed broccoli. Garnish with fresh sliced spring onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy!

Pressure Cooker Chicken Teriyaki: Efficiency Meets Flavor

Choosing the Right Instant Pot Size for Your Recipe

The Instant Pot comes in various sizes, each suitable for different needs. For this delicious Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe, I typically use an 8-quart pot, which provides ample space for the chicken and sauce. However, this recipe can be successfully prepared in a standard 6-quart pot as well, which is a popular choice for most families. If you own one of the smaller versions, such as the 3-quart mini, I highly recommend halving the recipe to ensure proper cooking and to avoid overfilling the pot. Always be mindful of your Instant Pot’s maximum fill line to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Understanding the Difference: Pressure Cooker vs. Instant Pot

While often used interchangeably in today’s culinary conversations, there’s a nuanced distinction between a traditional pressure cooker and an Instant Pot. By modern definition, when people refer to a “pressure cooker,” they are often thinking of an electric pressure cooker, which the Instant Pot is. However, a traditional stovetop pressure cooker and an Instant Pot represent two distinct generations of cooking technology.

A **traditional pressure cooker** is a sealed, heavy-duty metal pot that relies on steam generated by heating liquid to create a high-pressure environment. This increased pressure raises the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook much faster than conventional methods. They are robust but require careful monitoring of pressure and temperature.

The **Instant Pot**, on the other hand, is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker. It employs the same principle of cooking food under high pressure but with several key advantages. Instant Pots are incredibly efficient, safer due to multiple built-in safety mechanisms, and remarkably user-friendly. They require very little liquid to come to pressure and offer precise digital controls for various cooking programs (pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, yogurt maker, steamer, rice cooker, and more). This versatility makes them an indispensable tool for quick, healthy, and diverse meal preparation, far exceeding the capabilities of a basic stovetop pressure cooker.

Essential Instant Pot Tools and Accessories!

To enhance your Instant Pot cooking experience and make meal prep even easier, consider these highly recommended tools and accessories:

1. Instant Pot: The star of the show – choose the size that best fits your family’s needs.
2. Non-Stick Instant Pot Insert with Silicone Lid: Makes cleanup a breeze and is perfect for storage.
3. Accessory Set: Often includes steam racks, egg bite molds, and other useful inserts.
4. Glass Lid: Ideal for slow cooking or keeping food warm after pressure cooking.
5. Sealing Rings: Essential to have extras, especially for savory vs. sweet dishes.
6. Silicone Egg Bites Mold: Perfect for making healthy egg bites or mini cheesecakes.
7. Large Mesh Steamer Basket: Great for steaming vegetables, seafood, or even cooking pasta.
8. Complete Cook & Bake Set: A comprehensive kit to expand your Instant Pot culinary adventures.

If you’re a fan of this Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe, you’ll definitely want to explore these other fantastic quick dinner ideas. Each link below leads to an easy, printable recipe that will simplify your weeknight meals!

Instant Pot Sesame Salmon Bowls

Instant Pot Sesame Salmon Bowls are a delicious and easy dinner, ready with just 10 minutes of prep. Packed with flavor and good for you too.

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Spinach Tortellini Soup

When you’re craving soup but don’t want to spend hours simmering away on the stovetop, make this Instant Pot Spinach Tortellini Soup. It only takes 4 minutes of cooking time in your pressure cooker!

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Hamburger Helper

Instant Pot Hamburger Helper is a quick and easy dinner that’s ready in no time. Simple to make, so delicious – no box mix required!

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie

This Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe is a classic family favorite with a rich and creamy base, savory vegetables, and juicy chicken. It’s made fast using the pressure cooker for effortless dinner prep that everyone loves.

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is a quick and easy meal for busy weeknights that gets dinner done in record time. Just toss and go, so simple!

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Beef Stew

Instant Pot Beef Stew is a delicious and easy dinner recipe that tastes every bit as good as grandma’s, but so much easier! Just toss and go.

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Tuna Noodle Casserole

Instant Pot Tuna Noodle Casserole brings the old classic from your childhood & makes it fast with the pressure cooker in less than 30 min.

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Thighs

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Thighs are a quick & easy dinner recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes using just a handful of ingredients. You can’t go wrong!

Check out this recipe

Instant Pot Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork

Instant Pot Dr. Pepper Pulled Pork is a simple dump & cook recipe made in your pressure cooker. Just toss, set & go for an easy & delicious dinner.

Check out this recipe

More Instant Pot Meal Ideas

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a wide array of delicious meals beyond teriyaki chicken. If you’re looking for more ways to utilize your pressure cooker for quick and easy dinners, check out these other fantastic recipes:

• Instant Pot Swedish Meatballs
• Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie
• Hearty Instant Pot Chicken Chili
• Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

If you’ve enjoyed this easy recipe for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken, please consider leaving a five-star review below. Your feedback helps others discover delicious meals! Also, don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on Facebook and Pinterest!

Rate this Recipe

Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken

Course:
Dinner, Main Course

Servings:
4

Quick and easy recipe for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken. Enjoy sweet and tangy teriyaki with juicy chicken in less than 30 minutes.

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Save Recipe

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Total Time:
25 mins

Ingredients

Sauce

• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 teaspoon Sichuan chili flakes (optional but recommended; can use regular chili flakes)

Chicken

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs – cut into small bite-size pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 tablespoon oil

After Pressure Cooking

• 1 ½ tablespoons corn starch
• 2 tablespoons water

Garnish

• 2 teaspoon sesame seeds
• Sliced spring onions to garnish

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, sesame oil, water, and Sichuan chili flakes. Set aside.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Set the instant pot on SAUTE function, let it heat up. Add 1 tablespoon of oil.
4. Add the chicken pieces and cook until the chicken changes color to light brown.
5. Add the sauce mixture and stir to coat the chicken with the sauce.
6. Close the lid and pressure valve. Select the PRESSURE COOK button on HIGH PRESSURE and cook for 7 minutes.
7. Once the pressure-cooking cycle is over, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
8. Open the lid and select the CANCEL button.
9. Select the SAUTE button.
10. In a small bowl whisk together corn-starch and water until completely dissolved.
11. Once the sauce starts bubbling, slowly pour in the corn starch slurry while whisking the sauce.
12. Allow to bubble and cook for a minute, until the sauce thickens.
13. Select the CANCEL button and add sesame seeds.
14. Serve hot with steamed rice and broccoli garnished with spring onions.

Notes

• You can store the TERIYAKI CHICKEN in an airtight container for 3 days in the refrigerator or around 2 months in the freezer.
• Using sesame oil and Sichuan flakes in the sauce will bring out authentic flavors. However, if you don’t have that you can replace it with regular chili flakes / any other oil.
• You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just cook them for 10 minutes on high pressure and allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.

Equipment

• 1 pressure cooker

Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.

Love this recipe?
Follow @KleinworthCo for even more tasty recipes!