If you love dishes that bring a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, then this Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s incredibly simple to make, bursting with bold flavor, and uses the magic of the Instant Pot to have dinner ready in no time. The tender chicken soaks up that sticky, tongue-tingling sauce, making every bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe hits the spot every time with its delightful taste and simple preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to unlock the vibrant flavors in this dish. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that delightful honey-sriracha blend that coats the chicken perfectly.
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless/skinless): Provides a tender and juicy base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness that balances the heat.
- 1/4 cup sriracha sauce: Brings spicy warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup honey: Infuses the dish with a sticky, sweet richness that contrasts the heat.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium optional): Contributes salty umami that lifts every flavor.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps create the perfect cooking liquid for the Instant Pot.
- 3 teaspoons cornstarch + 1/4 cup cold water: Used to thicken the sauce for that luscious finish.
- Cooked rice: The perfect neutral bed to soak up all that sauce.
- Chopped scallions (to taste): Adds a fresh, vibrant crunch and a pop of color when serving.
How to Make Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Place Chicken in the Instant Pot
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into your Instant Pot. This lays the foundation for absorbing all the delicious sauce flavors as it cooks.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine ketchup, sriracha, honey, soy sauce, and water until smooth. Pour this fiery-sweet mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure every piece is kissed by the sauce.
Step 3: Seal and Cook
Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “sealing.” Cook the chicken on high pressure for 10 minutes. This method locks in moisture, resulting in perfectly tender meat every time.
Step 4: Quick Release the Pressure
When the cooking time is up, immediately perform a quick pressure release. This step is essential to avoid overcooking, so your chicken stays juicy and tender.
Step 5: Remove and Slice the Chicken
Take the chicken out carefully and place it on a cutting board. The chicken will be tender enough to cut into bite-sized pieces, perfect for serving.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Press the “sauté” button on your Instant Pot. In a small cup, mix the cornstarch with cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Let it thicken for a few minutes until it becomes glossy and coats the spoon beautifully.
Step 7: Return Chicken to the Sauce
Add the sliced chicken back into the pot and stir it around so every piece is coated with that sticky honey sriracha glaze. This final step infuses the meat with even more flavor and brings everything together.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chicken piping hot over bowls of fluffy cooked rice and sprinkle with chopped scallions for a pop of fresh color and crunch. This meal is sure to bring smiles to your table.
How to Serve Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your dish immensely. Freshly chopped scallions add a subtle sharpness and vibrant green color that make every bite more exciting. For extra flair, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime juice brightens the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas to add a satisfying crunch and balance the richness of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve this honey sriracha chicken wrapped in warm tortillas with some shredded cabbage and a drizzle of sour cream for a quick fusion taco. Or toss the chicken with cooked noodles and fresh veggies for a spicy Asian-inspired stir-fry bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover honey sriracha chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce continues to thicken overnight, making the flavors even more concentrated and delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture and flavor intact.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce over low heat on the stove or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of water can help loosen the sauce back to its perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will also work wonderfully and add extra juiciness and flavor to this Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time as thighs might cook slightly faster.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The sriracha adds a pleasant heat that can be adjusted depending on your taste. If you prefer milder, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or swap it for a gentler hot sauce.
Can I make this dish without an Instant Pot?
You can, but the Instant Pot really brings convenience and tenderness that’s tough to beat. On the stove, gently simmer the chicken with sauce until cooked through, then thicken the sauce as directed.
What can I substitute for cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour will work as a thickener. Mix with cold water before adding to the sauce to avoid lumps.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales well! Just make sure not to overfill your Instant Pot and adjust cooking time if you have a larger quantity of chicken to ensure it cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this Instant Pot Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe under your belt, I encourage you to give it a try soon. It’s a wonderful blend of comforting, spicy, and sweet all rolled into one easy meal that’ll quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you taste its rich flavors and tender chicken, this recipe will become a classic in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
