Craving a delicious Chinese takeout meal but don’t want the hassle or the calories of deep-frying? Look no further! This **Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken** recipe delivers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, with a hint of spice, all made effortlessly in your pressure cooker. Imagine tender, juicy chunks of chicken breast coated in a rich, glossy sesame sauce, ready to be devoured with fluffy rice or savory noodles. Traditionally, sesame chicken involves deep-frying, but our Instant Pot version skips the oil for a lighter, quicker, and equally satisfying homemade Asian dish that your entire family will adore.
If you’re on the hunt for a family-friendly, Asian-inspired meal that’s incredibly simple to whip up at home, this Instant Pot Sesame Chicken is your answer. It’s brimming with succulent chicken pieces, enveloped in a sticky, flavorful sesame chicken sauce that boasts an irresistible umami kick. This Chinese chicken recipe comes together in mere minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome, tasty dinner on the table without fuss.
Passionate about homemade Asian cuisine? Be sure to explore my other popular recipes like Chinese Salt and Pepper Shrimp, Kung Pao Shrimp Recipe, or Vegetarian Lo Mein Noodles for more delightful culinary adventures.
Why You’ll Adore This Easy Instant Pot Sesame Chicken Recipe
This Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s a culinary triumph that will quickly become a family favorite. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this effortless recipe:
- Unbelievably Fast & Convenient: In today’s fast-paced world, getting dinner ready quickly is paramount. This incredible Chinese chicken recipe requires minimal hands-on time and is typically ready from start to finish in just about 30 minutes, including the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure. It’s the ultimate solution for busy families craving delicious, homemade food without the long wait.
- Budget-Friendly & Healthier: Opting for takeout is convenient, but it often comes with a hefty price tag and hidden ingredients. By preparing this dish at home, you save a significant amount of money while gaining complete control over the ingredients. This non-fried version is also a much healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried sesame chicken, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors without excessive oil.
- Explosion of Incredible Flavor: Prepare your taste buds for a treat! Each tender piece of chicken is coated in a luscious, savory, and slightly sweet sesame chicken sauce. Infused with fresh garlic, grated ginger, and rich soy sauce, the sauce delivers that coveted umami depth that defines authentic Asian cuisine. The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic notes will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Effortless Cooking: The Instant Pot transforms what could be a complex dish into a simple, one-pot wonder. Forget multiple pans and lengthy cooking times. Just combine the ingredients, set the pot, and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Instant Pot Sesame Chicken
Crafting the perfect Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s signature sweet, savory, and umami profile. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Chicken: For optimal tenderness and kid-friendliness, we recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cube them into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating. Alternatively, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a slightly richer flavor and even more moist texture.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: This is the backbone of our savory sauce. Using a low-sodium variety allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, preventing it from becoming overpowering. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Ketchup: While it might seem unusual for an Asian dish, ketchup contributes a unique sweetness and tanginess, adding depth and a subtle richness to the sauce that balances the other strong flavors. You can opt for regular or a low-sugar ketchup.
- Aromatics (Freshly Minced Garlic & Grated Ginger): These two ingredients are non-negotiable for achieving that authentic, fragrant Asian flavor and aroma. Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best results; pre-minced or powdered versions simply don’t compare in terms of vibrant taste.
- Salt and Ground Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce. Adjust to your preference.
- Brown Sugar: Provides essential sweetness and a molasses-like depth that complements the savory elements. You can substitute with honey for a different sweet note, or reduce the amount if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
- Sesame Oil: This is crucial for the signature “sesame” flavor. Use toasted sesame oil for its distinct, nutty, and rich aroma. While you can use olive oil or vegetable oil in a pinch, be aware that the final taste and aromatic profile of the dish will be significantly different.
- Water and Cornstarch (for Slurry): The dynamic duo for thickening our sauce. When combined, they create a smooth, glossy, and perfectly thickened sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- Sesame Seeds: Primarily used as a garnish, white sesame seeds add a delightful visual appeal and a subtle, pleasant crunch, enhancing the textural experience of the dish.
- Chives (or Green Onions): Finely chopped chives or green onions are perfect for a fresh, vibrant garnish, adding a mild oniony flavor and a pop of color before serving.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Instant Pot Sesame Chicken
Making this delightful Chinese Sesame Chicken in your Instant Pot is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect meal every time:
- 1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by taking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cutting them into uniform bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the chicken easier to eat. Once cut, place all the chicken pieces directly into the inner pot of your Instant Pot.
- 2. Create the Sesame Chicken Sauce: In a separate small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and ground pepper. Whisk everything together thoroughly until well combined. Pour this delicious sauce mixture over the chicken pieces in the Instant Pot and mix well, ensuring every piece of chicken is evenly coated. Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the pressure release valve is set to the “sealing” position.
- 3. Pressure Cook the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” on “HIGH” for just 3 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a “QUICK RELEASE” of the pressure valve immediately. This is crucial to prevent the chicken from overcooking and becoming tough.
- 4. Thicken the Sauce: Carefully open the lid. Now, add the brown sugar and sesame oil to the pot. Press the “SAUTE” setting on your Instant Pot. In a small separate bowl, create a cornstarch slurry by whisking together 2 tablespoons of cold water with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until smooth. Pour this slurry into the Instant Pot while stirring continuously. Continue to stir and cook on the “SAUTE” setting until the sauce begins to bubble and thickens to your desired consistency – a beautiful, glossy coating.
- 5. Add Sesame Seeds: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the sesame seeds. Give it a quick mix to distribute them evenly throughout the chicken and sauce. Switch off the sauté setting.
- 6. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the delicious sesame chicken onto serving plates. Garnish generously with freshly chopped chives (or green onions) for a burst of freshness and color. Serve immediately over a bed of warm white rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your homemade, restaurant-quality Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken!
Expert Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Sesame Chicken
Achieving restaurant-quality results at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Choose Your Chicken Wisely: While chicken breast is often preferred for its tenderness and universal appeal, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. They offer a richer flavor and are more forgiving if slightly overcooked, maintaining a moister texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: As written, this sesame chicken recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you crave a kick, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking. You can always add more to individual servings if desired.
- Ensure Proper Doneness: For food safety and optimal texture, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should register 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). The 3-minute pressure cook time is usually sufficient for bite-sized pieces, but a quick check ensures perfection.
- Master the Quick Release: The “Quick Release” (QR) method after pressure cooking is vital for tender chicken. Natural Release (NR) would allow the chicken to continue cooking in the residual heat, potentially leading to dry, overcooked meat. Follow the quick release immediately.
- Account for Pressure Build-Up Time: Remember that the 3-minute cooking time does not include the time it takes for your Instant Pot to build up pressure, which can vary depending on the amount of liquid and the pot size (typically 5-10 minutes).
- Perfect the Cornstarch Slurry: The secret to a perfectly thick and glossy sauce lies in the cornstarch slurry. Always mix cornstarch with cold water first to prevent lumps. Whisk it well until completely smooth before adding it to the hot sauce on the “SAUTE” setting. Stir continuously until the sauce visibly thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Browning for Depth (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can briefly sauté the chicken pieces in a tablespoon of oil on the “SAUTE” mode before adding the sauce. This creates a light sear and can add more depth to the final dish, though it’s not strictly necessary for a delicious outcome.
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken
This versatile Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, transforming a simple meal into a delightful feast. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve it:
- Steamed White or Brown Rice: The classic choice! Fluffy jasmine rice or healthy brown rice is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory sesame sauce.
- Noodles: Serve it over cooked lo mein noodles, ramen, or even simple rice vermicelli for a comforting and hearty meal.
- Vegetable Fried Rice: For a more substantial and flavorful side, pair it with homemade Chinese Vegetable Fried Rice.
- Steamed or Stir-fried Vegetables: Balance the richness of the chicken with some fresh, crisp vegetables. Broccoli florets, snap peas, bok choy, bell peppers, or steamed green beans are excellent choices. You can even add some of these directly to the Instant Pot during the sauté phase at the end.
- Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: For a complete takeout-style experience, serve alongside crispy homemade or store-bought egg rolls, such as Spicy Salmon and Rice Egg Rolls.
- Light Salad: A simple, fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Variations & Customizations for Your Sesame Chicken
One of the best things about homemade cooking is the ability to adapt recipes to your taste and dietary needs. Here are some ways to customize your Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken:
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, you have several options! Stir in extra red pepper flakes with the sauce, add a tablespoon or two of sriracha, or even a squeeze of chili garlic sauce for an intensified kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by simply substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free liquid aminos. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Version: This recipe can be adapted for plant-based diets. Replace chicken with firm tofu (pressed and cubed), tempeh, or even hearty mushrooms like shiitake. Ensure to use vegetable broth (if any liquid is added beyond soy sauce) and verify all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
- Different Proteins: Experiment with other proteins! Cubed pork tenderloin or shrimp can also work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly; shrimp will cook much faster (1-2 minutes on high pressure with quick release).
- Add Extra Vegetables: Boost the nutrient content and visual appeal by adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, or broccoli florets. You can stir these in during the final sauté step, allowing them to cook until crisp-tender while the sauce thickens.
- Reduce Sugar: For a less sweet profile, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a sugar substitute like erythritol, adjusting to your preferred taste.
Storage and Reheating Your Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken
This Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken is fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. Proper storage and reheating will ensure your chicken remains flavorful and tender:
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
- Freezing: Yes, this Chinese chicken recipe freezes wonderfully! Once the chicken has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating in the Microwave: For a quick reheat, place your desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a tiny splash of water or chicken broth before microwaving.
- Reheating on the Stovetop: For larger portions or to retain a slightly crisper texture (if you seared the chicken initially), reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a tablespoon of water or broth to prevent sticking and cover the skillet to help steam the chicken through. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Chicken
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken:
By default, this recipe for Instant Pot Sesame Chicken focuses on the aromatic flavors of garlic and ginger, along with a balance of sweet and savory, so it is not inherently spicy. If you prefer a dish with more heat, you can easily customize it by adding red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce to taste during the cooking process or when serving.
While both sesame chicken and General Tso’s chicken are popular American-Chinese dishes featuring fried chicken in a rich sauce, they have distinct differences. General Tso’s chicken is typically spicier, often incorporating dried chili peppers and a deeper, more savory sauce with less sweetness. Sesame chicken, on the other hand, usually leans sweeter and has a prominent nutty flavor from sesame oil, often garnished generously with sesame seeds. Both offer unique flavor experiences!
The best way to thicken sesame chicken sauce in the Instant Pot is by creating a cornstarch slurry. Mix cold water and cornstarch thoroughly in a small bowl until no lumps remain. After pressure cooking the chicken, switch the Instant Pot to the “SAUTE” setting, then pour in the slurry while stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the sauce comes to a gentle boil and visibly thickens to a glossy consistency. If you’re concerned about overcooking the chicken during this step, you can temporarily remove the chicken pieces and add them back once the sauce has thickened.
Leftovers of this delicious chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave (stirring halfway through) or a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce appears too thick when reheating to restore its consistency. Serve over fresh rice for a complete meal.
Absolutely! This Chinese sesame chicken recipe is freezer-friendly. Once cooked and cooled completely, transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat using either the microwave or stovetop method as described above.
This delightful Instant Pot Chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides like steamed white or brown rice, stir-fried noodles, or Chinese Vegetable Fried Rice. For an added touch, consider serving it with crunchy Spicy Salmon and Rice Egg Rolls or a side of steamed broccoli or stir-fried bok choy.
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Instant Pot Chinese Sesame Chicken, you’re in for a treat! Explore more of my delicious chicken recipes:
- Homemade Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Sweet and Spicy Asian Chicken
- Korean Crispy Fried Chicken
- Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
- Air Fryer Orange Chicken
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
I genuinely hope you cherish every recipe I share with you, and this mouthwatering Chinese Sesame Chicken is no exception. Please give it a try, savor every bite, and if you love it, consider leaving a star rating and comment below. Your feedback and support mean the world! Don’t forget to share this fantastic recipe with your friends and family.
If you prepare this recipe and enjoy it as much as I do, please leave a star rating and a comment below to let me know! For all my latest culinary creations and social updates, be sure to follow me at Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST.
Chinese Sesame Chicken (Instant Pot)
Mariam Ezzeddine
10 minutes
20 minutes
30 minutes
4
servings
Ingredients
-
1 ½
lb
boneless skinless chicken breasts -
⅓
cup
low sodium soy sauce -
3
tablespoons
ketchup -
1
teaspoon
garlic,
minced -
1
teaspoon
ginger,
grated -
½
teaspoon
salt -
½
teaspoon
ground pepper -
3
tablespoons
brown sugar -
1
tablespoon
sesame oil -
2
tablespoons
water -
2
tablespoons
cornstarch -
1
tablespoon
sesame seeds -
Chopped chives,
to garnish
Instructions
-
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces and place the chicken pieces into the Instant pot.
-
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, ginger, salt & pepper. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken pieces and mix it well. Cover the Instant pot with a lid and place the valve in the “sealing” position.
-
Pressure cook the chicken on “HIGH” for 3 minutes, and once the cycle is complete, “QUICK RELEASE” the valve.
-
Carefully open the lid and add brown sugar and sesame oil. Press the “SAUTE” setting and add the cornstarch slurry (2 tbsp water +1 tbsp cornstarch) cook until the sauce thickens.
-
Add in the sesame seeds and give a quick mix. Switch off the saute setting.
-
Garnish the sesame chicken with chives and serve the chicken over rice.
Notes
- Chicken breast is our preferred cut because it’s tender and kid friendly. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer.
- Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to make this dish spicy.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F.
- Be sure to do a quick release of pressure, so you don’t overcook the chicken.
- Cooking times do not include the time it takes for the Instant Pot to come up to pressure.
- Make a cornstarch slurry by combining cold water and cornstarch. Just before serving, add it to the Instant Pot using the Saute setting to thicken the sauce.
Nutrition
|
Carbohydrates: 18g
|
Protein: 39g
|
Fat: 9g
|
Saturated Fat: 2g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g
|
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
|
Trans Fat: 0.02g
|
Cholesterol: 109mg
|
Sodium: 1359mg
|
Potassium: 766mg
|
Fiber: 1g
|
Sugar: 11g
|
Vitamin A: 110IU
|
Vitamin C: 3mg
|
Calcium: 47mg
|
Iron: 1mg
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