Name: Instant Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Table of Contents: Instant Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs

Instant Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs

Remember when a delicious, home-cooked meal felt achievable every night? Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean flavor has to take a backseat. These Instant Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs bring back that feeling – tender, flavorful chicken ready in under an hour, with minimal effort. Perfect for those evenings when you crave comfort food without the fuss, this recipe is a game-changer.

If you’re looking for easy pressure cooker meals that deliver big on taste, you’ve come to the right place. This isn’t just another instant pot chicken thighs recipe; it’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The sweet and spicy sauce is a delightful balance, appealing to a wide range of palates.

Whether you’re hosting a casual holiday gathering, preparing a hearty family dinner, or simply need a quick and delicious weeknight solution, these chicken thighs are the answer. They’re incredibly versatile – serve them with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

This recipe is designed with simplicity in mind, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Forget long marinating times and constant stirring; the Instant Pot does all the work, leaving you free to enjoy your evening.

We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring perfectly cooked, fall-off-the-bone chicken thighs every time. Get ready to rediscover the joy of effortless cooking!

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find this recipe under names like:

* Pressure Cooker Sweet Chili Chicken
* Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Instant Pot)
* Spicy Honey Chicken
* Korean-Inspired Sweet and Spicy Chicken (though this is a simplified version)

For a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding a tablespoon of soy butter to the sauce for extra richness. If you prefer a milder spice level, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. This recipe is a great base for exploring different sweet and spicy chicken variations!

Ingredients: Instant Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

* 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

* ⅓ cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
* ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
* ¼ cup honey
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
* Freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon water
* 2 teaspoons cornstarch
* Optional: Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into roughly 1-inch pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to coat each piece beautifully. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper.

2. Make the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little more honey for sweetness or red pepper flakes for heat!

3. Pressure Cook: Pour the sauce into the Instant Pot. Add the chicken thighs and stir to ensure they are fully coated. Secure the lid, making sure the valve is set to sealing.

4. Cook Time: Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting on high pressure for 8 minutes. How long does it take to cook chicken thighs in an Instant Pot? 8 minutes is usually perfect for tender, juicy thighs, but adjust slightly based on your Instant Pot model and the size of the chicken pieces.

5. Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

6. Thicken the Sauce: Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set aside. Select the “Sauté” function. In a small bowl, whisk together the water and cornstarch to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the Instant Pot and stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. How do you thicken a sauce in an Instant Pot? A cornstarch slurry is the quickest and easiest method.

7. Combine & Serve: Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot and toss to coat them evenly with the thickened sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes (plus pressure release time)
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 350-400 per serving (depending on portion size and sides)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Instant Pot Sweet and Spicy Chicken Thighs recipe works because the pressure cooking method tenderizes the chicken incredibly quickly, while the combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a deeply flavorful and balanced sauce.

Using chicken thighs instead of breasts ensures a more juicy and forgiving result, as thighs are less prone to drying out.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a portion of the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This isn’t essential, but it will enhance the overall taste. This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners that everyone will enjoy.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables – adding broccoli florets or bell pepper strips during the last few minutes of sautéing can create a complete one-pot meal.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. This is a great way to make the most of your easy pressure cooker meals and have a quick dinner option on hand.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken thighs in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. If reheating on the stovetop, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent them from drying out. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so add a little water when reheating to restore its consistency.