Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and sticky orange sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. This recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and the fact that everything cooks simultaneously in your Instant Pot – even the rice! Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a casual gathering, this flavorful dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and an Instant Pot, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of orange juice, garlic, and ginger creates a vibrant and mouthwatering sauce.
• One-Pot Wonder: Cook rice and chicken together for hassle-free cleanup and easy serving.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders based on your preference or what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and bursting with citrus flavor, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot Orange Chicken recipe seamlessly, you’ll need some key kitchen tools. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances your overall experience in the kitchen.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Trivet (for pot-in-pot cooking)

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker saves time by cooking food quickly while infusing flavors deeply.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without clumps.
• Trivet: Allows for pot-in-pot cooking, making it easy to steam rice while cooking chicken.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Orange Chicken with a sweet and sticky orange sauce and fluffy rice. This orange chicken recipe is easy to make and everything cooks at once in your Instant Pot – even the rice!

• zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 cup orange juice (from 1 large orange)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or honey or pure maple syrup)
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs or tenders)
• 1 cup long grain white rice such as jasmine or basmati (rinsed and drained)
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 3 green onions (sliced)
• sesame seeds

How to Make Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
1. orange zest
2. orange juice
3. brown sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
4. soy sauce
5. apple cider vinegar
6. garlic
7. ginger
8. Optional: add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Step 2: Cut the Chicken

Cut the chicken into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the Instant Pot and turn on sauté mode:
* Allow the pot to heat up.
* Add the chicken pieces and brown them for about 4–5 minutes.
* Press Cancel once done to stop sautéing.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Pour the prepared orange sauce into the Instant Pot over the browned chicken:
* Stir well to coat all pieces evenly.
* Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom for added flavor.

Step 5: Cook Rice Using Pot-in-Pot Method

For pot-in-pot cooking:
* Place a 2.5-inch tall trivet inside the Instant Pot over the chicken mixture.
* In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup rinsed rice with 1 cup water.
* Set this bowl on top of the trivet.

If you don’t have an appropriate bowl, cook rice separately according to package instructions instead.

Step 6: Seal and Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid securely:
* Turn the steam release valve to sealing position.
* Set it to Manual/Pressure Cook for 4 minutes at high pressure.

Step 7: Release Pressure

Once cooking time ends:
* Allow natural pressure release for about 10 minutes.
* Carefully turn steam release valve to venting position for quick release of remaining pressure.

Step 8: Open Lid

When you hear the pin drop:
* Open the lid carefully. If using pot-in-pot method, use oven mitts to remove rice bowl.

Step 9: Thicken Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. cornstarch
2. water

Pour this slurry into the Instant Pot:
* Turn on sauté mode again.
* Stir until sauce thickens—this should take just a minute or two.

Step 10: Serve

Serve your delicious orange chicken over fluffy rice:
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Serving Instant Pot Orange Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Pair this flavorful dish with various accompaniments to enhance its taste and presentation.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and a healthy crunch.
• Snow Peas: These tender peas complement the sweetness of the orange sauce.
• Carrots: Sliced or steamed, carrots provide a lovely sweetness that pairs well.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to regular rice, it soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Romaine or Butter Lettuce: Use these crisp leaves for fresh, crunchy wraps filled with orange chicken.

With Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Serve your chicken over rice noodles for a delicious twist on this classic dish.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Perfecting your Instant Pot Orange Chicken is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out just right every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic bring vibrant flavors to the sauce.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar or honey slightly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: Ensure there’s enough space for the chicken to cook evenly in the pot.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together.
• Thicken the Sauce Properly: Stirring in cornstarch slurry while sautéing is key for achieving a luscious sauce consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Pairing your Instant Pot Orange Chicken with complementary side dishes can create a balanced and enjoyable meal. Here are some great options:

1. Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice absorbs the sweet orange sauce beautifully.
2. Brown Rice: A nutty flavor that adds a wholesome touch alongside your chicken.
3. Quinoa: This protein-rich option offers a unique texture and nutritional boost.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy brings freshness and crunch to your plate.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting start to your meal.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool contrast to the warm chicken.
7. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add elegance and flavor when roasted lightly.
8. Egg Fried Rice: Add eggs to leftover rice for a quick and tasty side that complements your main dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make small errors that can affect the taste and texture of their Instant Pot Orange Chicken. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the chicken can lead to a less flavorful dish. Always take a few minutes to sauté the chicken before adding the sauce.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality soy sauce or juice can dull the flavor. Opt for fresh-squeezed orange juice and high-quality soy sauce for best results.
• Overcooking the Rice: Cooking rice in the Instant Pot requires precision. Ensure you follow the recommended cook time and water ratio for perfect rice.
• Not Allowing Natural Pressure Release: Quick releasing pressure immediately can result in tough chicken. Let it release naturally for at least 10 minutes for tender results.
• Ignoring Sauce Thickness: If you skip thickening the sauce, it may be too runny. Always add a cornstarch slurry at the end to achieve that desirable sticky texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Instant Pot Orange Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Orange Chicken

• Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Instant Pot Orange Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat on medium power until heated, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Orange Chicken?

The cooking time is just 4 minutes under high pressure, but remember to account for about 10 minutes of pressure buildup.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Instant Pot Orange Chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor, making your dish even more delicious.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Orange Chicken?

Consider serving it over steamed vegetables or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Instant Pot Orange Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking, or adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of brown sugar used.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just divide into portions and refrigerate or freeze as needed.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and versatility. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at dinner, this recipe adapts well to your preferences. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or adjust flavors to suit your taste!

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