- **Green onions** (sliced, for garnish) - 2-3 stalks
- **Cornstarch** (for thickening the sauce) - 1 tablespoon
- **Water** (or chicken broth for added flavor) - 1/4 cup
- **Red pepper flakes** (optional, for a spicy kick) - 1/2 teaspoon
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground) - to taste
- **Salt** (optional, adjust to taste) - to taste
### Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- **Sriracha** (for heat) - 1 teaspoon
- **Brown sugar** (for a richer sweetness) - 1 tablespoon
- **Carrots** (sliced, for added veggies) - 1 cup
- **Bell peppers** (sliced, for color and crunch) - 1 cup
This **Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken Thighs recipe** is perfect for a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner. It’s packed with **Asian-inspired flavors**, **protein-rich chicken thighs**, and a **sweet-savory sesame glaze** that’s sure to impress!
Steps
# Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken Thighs: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy dinner recipe? These **Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken Thighs** are the perfect solution! Packed with bold flavors like garlic, sesame, and soy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s gluten-free and keto-friendly! Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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## **Ingredients for Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken Thighs**
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp honey (or sugar-free substitute for keto)
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**
1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.
2. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
### **Step 2: Sear the Chicken**
1. Set your Instant Pot to **Sauté mode** and add 1 tbsp sesame oil.
2. Once hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
### **Step 3: Make the Sauce**
1. In the same Instant Pot, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
### **Step 4: Pressure Cook**
1. Return the seared chicken thighs to the Instant Pot, coating them in the sauce.
2. Secure the lid, set the valve to **Sealing**, and cook on **High Pressure** for 8 minutes.
3. Once done, allow a **Natural Pressure Release (NPR)** for 5 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
### **Step 5: Thicken the Sauce**
1. Remove the chicken thighs and set aside.
2. Set the Instant Pot to **Sauté mode** again. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
3. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
### **Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
1. Return the chicken to the pot and coat it in the thickened sauce.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
3. Serve over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or your favorite side dish.
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## **Tips for Success**
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer taste, but adjust the cooking time to 12 minutes on High Pressure.
- Double the sauce recipe if you prefer a saucier dish.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This **Instant Pot Garlic Sesame Chicken Thighs** recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s:
- **Quick and easy**: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- **Flavor-packed**: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors.
- **Versatile**: Great for meal prep or serving to guests.
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Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite! Don’t forget to save this recipe for later and share it with your friends.