Instant Pot General Tso Chicken

If you’re craving a dish that combines crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce, look no further! This Instant Pot General Tso Chicken is a game changer. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The pressure cooker transforms ordinary chicken thighs into tender, juicy pieces enveloped in a luscious sauce that rivals any takeout. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will become a household favorite.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Quick cooking time thanks to the Instant Pot.
• Tender and juicy chicken thighs that soak up all the delicious flavors.
• Easy-to-follow steps that yield impressive results.
• Customize the spice level to suit your taste.
• Perfect for meal prep or serve it fresh for dinner!

The Essentials

• 1 pound chicken thighs – Cut into 2-3 inch chunks for even cooking.
• 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil – For sautéing the chicken and building flavor.
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced – Adds that aromatic kick.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced – A must for depth of flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes – Adjust to your spice preference.
• 6 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides a tangy balance.
• 6 tablespoons soy sauce – Essential for savory depth.
• 6 teaspoons hoisin sauce – Sweetness and richness in every bite.
• 1/3 cup water – Helps create steam for cooking.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – For thickening the sauce.
• 3 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry) – Necessary for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
• Red pepper flakes – For garnish and extra heat.
• Sesame seeds – A crunchy topping that adds texture.
• Green onions, chopped – Freshness and color to finish the dish.

Tools of the Trade

• Instant Pot – The star of the show that speeds up cooking.
• Cutting board and knife – For chopping the chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Spoon or spatula – For stirring and serving.
• Small bowl – To mix the cornstarch slurry.

From Start to Finish: Instant Pot General Tso Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into 2-3 inch chunks. This ensures that they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the vegetable or canola oil. Once hot, add the chicken chunks in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside once browned.

Step 3: Aromatics Time

In the same pot, add the minced ginger and garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them; you want to bring out their flavors without turning them bitter.

Step 4: Add the Sauce Ingredients

To the pot, add the red chili flakes, rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, water, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Return the browned chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the sauce. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Release the Pressure

Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure by carefully turning the valve to venting. Open the lid once the pressure is fully released.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Turn the Instant Pot back to the sauté function and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Instant Pot General Tso Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Healthier Substitutions

• Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie alternative.
• Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
• Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli in the dish for added nutrients.

Problems & Prevention

• Burn notice: If you receive a burn notice while cooking, ensure you have enough liquid in the pot. Adding a bit more water can help.
• Overcooked chicken: Follow the timing closely; 10 minutes is usually perfect for chicken thighs. Overcooking can lead to dry meat.
• Thick sauce: If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
• Too spicy: Adjust the red chili flakes to your spice tolerance. You can always add more later!

Best Ways to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much during storage. This dish also freezes well; simply place it in a freezer-safe container and it will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a leaner option, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

Is General Tso Chicken traditionally spicy?

Traditional General Tso Chicken has a hint of spice, but it’s mostly sweet and savory. You can adjust the heat level by adding or reducing the red chili flakes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for a quick meal later.

What can I serve with General Tso Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

Don’t Miss These

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – For dessert ideas to complement your meal.
• Pinch of Yum – For more quick and healthy dinner recipes.
• Minimalist Baker – For easy and delicious meals that are plant-based.
• Food Network – For more variations of General Tso Chicken.

The Last Word

This Instant Pot General Tso Chicken recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a beloved dish right in your own kitchen. With its tender chicken, rich sauce, and a hint of heat, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, cooking it in an Instant Pot means you can have this restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. So gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of this irresistible dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home!