Instant pot honey bourbon chicken: the perfect weeknight fix in under 30 minutes!

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure with our tantalizing Instant Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken recipe. Bursting with a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (optional)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Brown the Chicken (Optional): Heat the Instant Pot on the “Sauté” setting. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, bourbon (if using), brown sugar, cornstarch, water, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add the Sauce to the Pot: Pour the sauce over the browned chicken.
5. Cook on High Pressure: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
6. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
7. Quick Release: Carefully release any remaining pressure.
8. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to form a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook on “Sauté” until thickened.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Instant Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken with your favorite sides, such as:

• Steamed rice
• Quinoa
• Roasted vegetables
• Mashed potatoes

Tips

• For a sweeter sauce: Add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.
• For a spicier sauce: Add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha.
• Use a variety of vegetables: Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the pot for a more colorful dish.
• Make it ahead: The chicken can be cooked and the sauce made ahead of time. Simply reheat before serving.

Variations

• Bourbon Chicken with Pineapple: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple chunks to the pot along with the sauce.
• Honey Garlic Chicken: Omit the bourbon and add an extra tablespoon of honey and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic.
• Teriyaki Chicken: Substitute teriyaki sauce for the soy sauce and honey.

Benefits of Using an Instant Pot

• Time-saving: Cooks food up to 70% faster than traditional methods.
• Energy-efficient: Uses less energy than a stovetop or oven.
• Versatile: Can be used for a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to rice and desserts.
• Safe: Features multiple safety mechanisms to prevent accidents.

Wrap-Up

Indulge in the delectable flavors of our Instant Pot Honey Bourbon Chicken recipe. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and become a regular in your meal rotation.

Information You Need to Know

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.

2. Can I make this recipe without bourbon?
Yes, you can omit the bourbon and add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for sweetness.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir into the sauce while cooking on “Sauté” until thickened.

4. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this chicken?
Steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes are all great side dishes to serve with this chicken.