Instant Pot Orange Chicken: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that captures the essence of Asian-inspired cuisine. The tender chicken, enveloped in a luscious orange sauce, provokes an exciting culinary experience. With just the right balance of tangy and sweet, this dish can transport your taste buds to a bustling Asian restaurant in no time. Plus, the convenience of making this dish in an Instant Pot ensures that it comes together quickly and easily, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or entertaining friends.
If you’ve ever indulged in luscious orange chicken at your favorite takeout, you understand why it’s loved by so many. The first bite reveals crispy chicken coated in a zesty sauce that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot only enhances its flavor profile and reduces cooking time, meaning you can enjoy your meal faster without sacrificing taste. In this guide, we’ll dive into what makes Instant Pot Orange Chicken so amazing, share tips on preparation, and provide step-by-step instructions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Let’s get started exploring why this amazing recipe has become a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an unforgettable experience. Here are several reasons why you’ll love making this dish:
1. Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to whip up this dish in under 30 minutes.
2. Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and tangy orange sauce enhances the chicken, delivering an incredible taste.
3. One-Pot Wonder: Minimal clean-up is required since everything is cooked in a single pot.
4. Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions by using alternate proteins or adding vegetables.
5. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant color of the dish makes it visually appealing, perfect for serving guests.
6. Kid-Friendly: The sweetness of the orange sauce appeals to children, making it a family-friendly dish.
These features combine to create a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Each bite is filled with flavor and comfort that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Get ready to enjoy the flavors of Instant Pot Orange Chicken! The overall preparation and cooking time for this amazing dish is around 25 to 30 minutes. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time needed:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 15 minutes
– Natural Release Time: 5 minutes
With these time estimates in mind, you’ll find that making Instant Pot Orange Chicken fits seamlessly into a busy lifestyle.

Ingredients

– 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed if possible
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Instant Pot Orange Chicken is straightforward. Follow these steps to prepare this delicious dish:
1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the vegetable oil, and once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook for 5 minutes until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, orange zest, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine.
4. Add Sauce to Instant Pot: Pour the orange sauce over the browned chicken in the Instant Pot.
5. Cook Under Pressure: Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to ‘Sealing’. Select ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 8 minutes.
6. Release Pressure: When the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes. Then switch the valve to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure carefully.
7. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this to the Instant Pot to thicken the sauce, and set to ‘Sauté’ once more, stirring until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
8. Serve: After thickening, stir the orange chicken well to coat and then serve hot.
With these steps, you’ll create a delectable dish that’s sure to please!

How to Serve

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Orange Chicken, presentation and accompaniments can elevate the experience. Here are a few tips to enhance your serving process:
1. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
2. Pair with Rice: Serve the orange chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Vegetable Sides: Complement the meal with a side of steamed broccoli, bok choy, or stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition.
4. Drinks: Pair with a refreshing beverage like iced green tea or a light white wine to balance the sweetness of the dish.
5. Plating: Use wide, shallow bowls for an attractive presentation; the colors will look vibrant against the white rice backdrop.
By adding these enhancements, serving Instant Pot Orange Chicken can transform your meal into a memorable event, delighting your family and guests alike!

Additional Tips

– Use Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: For the best flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice rather than bottled varieties. The freshness enhances the overall taste of the dish.
– Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicy kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of chili powder to the sauce.
– Let It Rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce soak into the chicken.
– Experiment with Flavor: Add other ingredients like bell peppers or snap peas to the Instant Pot for extra texture and flavor.
– Serve with the Right Accompaniments: Pair the orange chicken with other Asian-inspired dishes, such as egg rolls or fried rice, for an authentic meal experience.

Recipe Variation

Get creative with these exciting variations of Instant Pot Orange Chicken:
1. Orange Chicken with Pineapple: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the dish for a sweet and tangy twist.
2. Healthier Alternative: Substitute honey with agave syrup or a low-calorie sweetener to lower the sugar content of the sauce.
3. Orange Chicken Tacos: Serve the orange chicken in soft tortillas, adding toppings like shredded cabbage and avocado for a fun fusion dish.
4. Orange Chicken with Cashews: Stir in roasted cashews before serving for an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
5. Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce in the recipe.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftover Instant Pot Orange Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled orange chicken in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Special Equipment

Here are a few essential tools needed to prepare Instant Pot Orange Chicken:
– Instant Pot: This multi-functional pressure cooker is the star of the show.
– Mixing Bowls: Use these for mixing the sauce and for any prep work.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors.
– Tongs or a Slotted Spoon: These tools assist in serving the chicken without leaving excess sauce behind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well in this recipe, though they may require less cooking time.
What if I don’t have fresh oranges?
You can substitute a good-quality bottled orange juice, but for the best flavor, fresh is always recommended.
Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Cook on low for 4-6 hours in a slow cooker, adding the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prep since it reheats well and keeps its great flavor, making it excellent for lunches throughout the week.
How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is more than just a quick recipe; it’s a delightful dish that combines convenience with incredible flavors. The sweet and savory orange sauce, paired with tender chicken, creates a captivating experience for the palate. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress. It’s easy to customize and adapt, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. With just a few simple steps, you can recreate a beloved takeout favorite right in your kitchen, enhancing your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your journey in making this scrumptious Instant Pot Orange Chicken!