Instant Pot Orange Chicken
Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? You’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll show you how to make Instant Pot Orange Chicken that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty Instant Pot, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love.
So, grab your apron and get ready to impress with this easy and flavorful dish. Let’s get cooking!
Origins
The tasty and beloved Instant Pot Orange Chicken has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 1900s. Its roots are said to lie in traditional Chinese cuisine, specifically the popular dish known as General Tso’s Chicken.
However, the version of this dish we know today was actually created by Chinese immigrants who settled in California. These skilled chefs modified their traditional recipes to better suit the American palate, adding a sweet and tangy orange sauce to the crispy chicken.
Over time, the dish grew in popularity and spread across the country, becoming a staple in Chinese-American cuisine. Its unique blend of flavors and textures continues to make it a favorite among food lovers everywhere.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Orange Chicken
-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
-1/4 cup cornstarch
-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
-1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
-3 tablespoons honey
-2 tablespoons soy sauce
-1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
-1 teaspoon garlic powder
-1 teaspoon onion powder
-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
-Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
-1/4 cup chopped green onions
-1/4 cup sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
For a delectable meal, start by prepping and marinating the chicken with the orange sauce in your Instant Pot. Here’s how to create the perfect Instant Pot Orange Chicken:
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Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and add some oil. Brown the chicken pieces on both sides for a few minutes until they turn golden brown. This will help lock in the flavors.
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In a separate bowl, mix together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Pour this mix over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
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Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual mode. Cook on high pressure for about 8 minutes. Once the time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then manually release the remaining pressure.
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Open the lid and stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Serve the orange chicken over steamed rice and garnish with some green onions and sesame seeds.
These simple-to-follow instructions will guide you through the process of making a savory and fulfilling Instant Pot Orange Chicken. Enjoy!
Tips for Cooking
If you want your Instant Pot Orange Chicken to turn out perfectly, make sure to follow these helpful tips.
| Tips for Cooking |
|---|
| 1. Use fresh oranges for the best flavor. Squeeze the juice yourself instead of using store-bought orange juice. |
| 2. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. |
| 3. Brown the chicken before pressure cooking to add a nice caramelized flavor. |
| 4. Add cornstarch slurry at the end to thicken the sauce. Mix cornstarch and water together and stir it into the pot. |
| 5. Serve the Instant Pot Orange Chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. |
| 6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for added freshness and crunch. |
Final Thoughts
As you reflect on the process of making Instant Pot Orange Chicken, you’ll appreciate the convenience and deliciousness that this recipe offers.
The Instant Pot truly makes cooking this dish effortless. From the marinating of the chicken to the final sautéing, each step is made easier and faster with the help of this useful kitchen appliance.
The flavors of the orange sauce, combined with the tender and juicy chicken, provide a savory combination that will have you coming back for more.
And the best part? You can have this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home, without the need for takeout or delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as frozen chicken needs more time to cook. The Instant Pot will still ensure that the chicken is cooked through and has a delicious flavor.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
To make this dish spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or chili powder. Additionally, you can add diced jalapenos or a spicy hot sauce. Adjust the amount to your desired level of spiciness.
Can I Substitute the Orange Juice With Another Citrus Juice?
Yes, it is possible to substitute the orange juice with another citrus juice. Lemon juice can be used to give a tangy flavor or grapefruit juice can be used to provide a slightly bitter taste. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Recipe?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegetarian version of this recipe. You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Enjoy your meat-free orange dish!
Can I Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breast. They’ll remain tender and juicy when cooked in the Instant Pot. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Enjoy!
