If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that combines savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors, look no further than Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice! Imagine succulent pieces of chicken bathed in a luscious teriyaki sauce, served over a fluffy bed of perfectly steamed rice. Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it also makes an easy, one-pot meal that’s ideal for family gatherings or cozy winter evenings at home.
Interestingly enough, teriyaki actually means “to glaze” in Japanese, so you can imagine how this dish shines at the dinner table. It’s a family favorite, trusted by many, and effortlessly comparably delicious to my popular Chicken Curry recipe, all while being a breeze to make. With the help of your Instant Pot, it’s like setting the table for an Asian feast without spending hours in the kitchen. Who wouldn’t want something that brings warmth and happiness to those they love while filling their bellies? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
What is Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice?
So, what exactly is this delightful dish known as Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice? Think of it as a delicious symphony of flavors, where tender chicken meets a sweet and savory sauce, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your taste buds. Much like the age-old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—with this dish, you might just win over anyone at your table, man or woman!
Imagine sitting down with a bowl filled to the brim, ready to dig in, and letting the incredible aromas hit you. You’re probably wondering, how did this come about? Did a chef simply say, “Let’s put chicken and rice together and glaze it?” Well, maybe not quite, but that’s the beauty of culinary creativity! Ready to taste the magic? Grab your Instant Pot and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
There are so many reasons you’ll adore Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice! First, it serves as a fantastic main dish that’s packed with protein and carbs to keep you energized. Furthermore, by cooking at home, you not only save money but also get to control each ingredient quality—just think of all the takeout you can skip!
On top of that, the flavor profile is simply to die for. Adding toppings like sesame seeds, green onions, or a side of steamed vegetables brings an extra dimension to this recipe; just one bite will have you coming back for more! It’s a close relative to fried rice, but without all that greasy feel—it’s all about that tender bite, glistening sauce, and delightful simplicity. You’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your family’s next gathering!
How to Make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Quick Overview
Making Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is straightforward and incredibly satisfying! In just about 30 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a delicious, hearty meal that showcases a beautiful mix of textures. You’ll love the tenderness of the chicken alongside the fluffy rice, not to mention the delightful explosion of flavors incorporated into every bite. Let’s jump into this quick and fun culinary adventure together!
Key Ingredients for Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup jasmine rice (rinsed)
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 cup water or chicken broth (ensure it’s Halal-compliant)
- 2 green onions (sliced for topping)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Optional: steamed vegetables (like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Chicken: Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Once hot, add sesame oil followed by the chicken pieces. Sauté until the chicken is browned, about 3–4 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the Instant Pot. Add the rinsed jasmine rice on top, followed by the water/broth. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Cook: Close and seal the Instant Pot lid. Set it to “Manual” and adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes. It will take a few minutes for the pot to come to pressure.
- Release Pressure: Once done, perform a “Quick Release” to let out the steam. Carefully remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice into bowls, garnishing with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
To ensure your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice turns out perfectly, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Substitutions: Feel free to use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option, but thighs provide juiciness. You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Timing: Don’t skip the sautéing step, as it enhances flavor. Stick to the cooking times closely for ideal texture—overcooking chicken can make it dry.
- Avoiding Mistakes: Make sure to rinse the rice well to remove excess starch; this helps achieve a fluffy texture and prevents stickiness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is usually the case!), you can refrigerate Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice for up to four days in an airtight container. For long-term storage, it freezes beautifully for up to two months.
When reheating, the stovetop is preferred, as it gently warms the dish without drying it out. Add a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist. Now you can enjoy this amazing dish even when you’ve run out of time to cook from scratch!
Conclusion
In a world bustling with fast food and hectic schedules, Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice is your answer to a satisfying meal that comes together in a fraction of the time—without sacrificing flavor or texture. Your family will love this easy, delectable dish, and you’ll appreciate the simplicity and joy that comes from cooking it. So, what are you waiting for? Time to dive in and whip up this delightful masterpiece!
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function. Once hot, add sesame oil followed by the chicken pieces. Sauté until the chicken is browned, about 3–4 minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the browned chicken in the Instant Pot. Add the rinsed jasmine rice on top, followed by the water/broth. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Close and seal the Instant Pot lid. Set it to 'Manual' and adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes. It will take a few minutes for the pot to come to pressure.
- Once done, perform a 'Quick Release' to let out the steam. Carefully remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.
- Spoon the Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken and Rice into bowls, garnishing with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
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