If you’re craving a deeply satisfying, flavorful dish that comes together in a flash, this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It combines tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly balanced teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory, all cooked effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Whether you’re a busy weeknight warrior or someone who loves fuss-free meals packed with flavor, this recipe delivers on every front. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a homemade take on a classic favorite without all the waiting around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe truly shine. Each ingredient plays a unique role, from building the signature sauce to creating a juicy chicken texture that feels like it’s been simmered all day long.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Chicken breasts keep the dish lean but remain juicy after pressure cooking.
- ½ cup water: Helps the Instant Pot build pressure and balances the sauce’s consistency.
- 1 ½ cups teriyaki sauce: Choose store-bought or homemade to add that iconic sweet-savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: A simple thickener that transforms the sauce into a glossy, irresistible glaze.
- Cooked rice: The perfect bed for soaking up all that delicious teriyaki goodness.
- Steamed vegetables: Adds vibrant color and fresh texture to round out your meal.
- Optional garnishes – chopped green onions and sesame seeds: Small extras that bring freshness and a bit of crunch.
How to Make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Pressure Cook Chicken
Start by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts right into the Instant Pot. Pour the teriyaki sauce and water over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets coated. Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. This step is where the magic happens—the pressure cooker locks in the moisture to deliver incredibly tender chicken infused with that rich teriyaki flavor. After the cooking cycle, allow the pressure to release naturally; this gentle finish helps keep the texture perfect.
Step 2: Thicken Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and set it aside. Switch the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode to begin reducing the sauce. To get that beautiful, sticky teriyaki glaze everyone loves, whisk in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. It might seem simple, but thickening your sauce here is crucial—it transforms the cooking liquid into a luscious coating that clings to every bite.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot, stirring gently so the thickened sauce can perfectly coat each morsel. Now your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is ready to be plated. Serve it over freshly cooked rice and bright, steamed vegetables, then sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy. This step brings everything together, creating a delicious balance of tastes and textures.
How to Serve Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes such as chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds elevates both the flavor and presentation of this dish. The onions add a fresh, slightly sharp crunch, while sesame seeds introduce a nutty element that perfectly complements the sweet and savory sauce. These little touches make your meal look restaurant-quality and taste even better.
Side Dishes
Simple steamed vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, or carrots are ideal side companions for this teriyaki chicken because they add vibrant color, nutrition, and a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken. Serving over fluffy white or jasmine rice is a classic choice since it soaks up every bit of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe in lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld meal. Alternatively, plate it over a bed of quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, health-conscious option. You can also turn it into a rice bowl layered with pickled veggies or sliced avocado for a modern, flavor-packed presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, tuck any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead for busy weeks, freeze the teriyaki chicken in freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce together but keep rice and vegetables separate for the freshest texture when reheated. The chicken will stay good for about 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to redistribute the sauce. Adding a splash of water if it thickened too much helps maintain that perfect consistency. Serve over freshly steamed rice for an easy second round.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative for this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe as they tend to stay juicier and offer a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if your pieces are larger or bone-in.
Is homemade teriyaki sauce better than store-bought?
Both work perfectly, but homemade teriyaki gives you full control over sweetness, saltiness, and any extra flavors like garlic or ginger. Store-bought options save time and are very convenient without compromising on taste.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! One of the beauties of the Instant Pot is that it cooks frozen meat effectively. You might want to add a few extra minutes to the pressure cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
How thick should the sauce be?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and cling nicely to the chicken without being gummy. The cornstarch helps achieve this perfect glossy finish in just minutes on sauté mode.
What are some good vegetable pairings?
Steamed broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers all pair wonderfully with this dish. Their natural sweetness and crunch balance the rich teriyaki sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is truly a lifesaver when you want a comforting, delicious meal that comes together quickly and easily. Its perfect blend of tender chicken, rich sauce, and vibrant garnishes means it’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite dishes to make again and again!
Print
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (plus natural pressure release approx. 10-15 minutes)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked under pressure in a savory teriyaki sauce. The sauce is thickened directly in the pot for a glossy finish, making it perfect to serve over steamed rice and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup water
- 1 ½ cups teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
To Serve
- Cooked rice
- Steamed vegetables
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions
- Pressure Cook Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the Instant Pot. Pour the teriyaki sauce and water over the chicken evenly. Secure the Instant Pot lid and seal it properly for pressure cooking.
- Cook on High Pressure: Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 12 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy.
- Thicken Sauce: Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts from the pot and set aside. Switch the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode to prepare the sauce. Add the cornstarch to the remaining liquid in the pot and whisk continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Combine and Serve: Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the thickened sauce in the pot. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Serve the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice and steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired to add extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use either store-bought teriyaki sauce or make your own for a customized flavor.
- For added vegetables, you can cook them separately or use the steamer basket while pressure cooking if your Instant Pot model allows.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase cornstarch quantity slightly but mix well to avoid lumps.
- Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
