Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table! Our Instant Pot Asian BBQ Chicken Thighs are not just quick and easy to make; they are a mouthwatering delight that will have your family asking for seconds. In just 25 minutes, you can create tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a rich, savory marinade that combines the sweetness of honey with the umami of soy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive in and discover how to whip up this flavorful dish that will leave everyone craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure proper sauce absorption and better searing.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil to create a rich, flavorful marinade.
- Set the Instant Pot to "Sauté" mode and heat sesame oil to create a hot cooking surface.
- Sear the chicken thighs for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown exterior, which helps lock in moisture and enhance flavor.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to "Sealing" position, and cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for remaining pressure.
- Remove chicken thighs and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Brush additional BBQ sauce on chicken and broil for 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds and serve with steamed rice or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Perfect Searing: Before marinating, make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This simple step helps the marinade adhere better and results in a beautifully seared exterior.
- Mix Your Marinade Well: Whisk the BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil thoroughly to ensure all flavors meld together, creating a deliciously balanced marinade.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Searing the chicken thighs in sesame oil not only locks in moisture but also adds a rich depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the thickness of your chicken thighs, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allowing a natural pressure release for 5 minutes helps the chicken retain its juices, making it even more succulent.
- Broil for Extra Flavor: For a caramelized finish, brush on additional BBQ sauce and broil the chicken for a few minutes after cooking. This adds a beautiful glaze and enhances the flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving. It adds a pop of color and a fresh crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your BBQ chicken with steamed rice or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that your family will love.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 145mg
