Instant Pot Orange Chicken Recipe

Looking for a quick and flavorful dinner idea? This Instant Pot Orange Chicken recipe combines the tangy sweetness of fresh orange juice, the savory kick of soy sauce, and the richness of garlic and ginger to create a crowd-pleasing dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Pair it with steamed white rice, fried rice, or your favorite veggies for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Orange Glaze:

• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1 large orange)
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (see notes)
• ½ packed cup light brown sugar (see notes)
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons water

For the Chicken:

• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., avocado or olive oil)
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Optional for Serving:

• Cooked white rice or fried rice
• Thinly sliced green onions
• Thin orange slices for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Orange Glaze:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, and grated ginger (if using). Set aside.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

1. Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the oil, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the pot.
2. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with salt. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges of the chicken are just opaque.

3. Cook Under Pressure:

1. Pour the prepared orange glaze over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
2. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to the Sealing position.
3. Select Manual High Pressure and set the timer for 5 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to pressurize before the cooking time begins.

4. Thicken the Sauce:

1. While the chicken cooks, whisk together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl until fully combined to form a slurry.
2. When the cooking time ends, carefully Quick Release the pressure by turning the vent to Venting. Remove the lid with caution, as the steam will be very hot.
3. Set the Instant Pot back to Sauté mode and stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

5. Serve:

1. Serve the chicken and sauce over cooked white rice or fried rice.
2. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and orange slices if desired. Enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process for a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors from fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and garlic.
• Family-Friendly: A dish everyone will enjoy, and it’s easy to customize to suit individual tastes.

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Tips

• Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Thick Sauce: Adjust the cornstarch slurry for a thicker or thinner sauce based on your preference.
• Avoid Overcooking: Quick Release ensures the chicken stays tender and juicy.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless thighs for a richer flavor.
• No Cornstarch: Use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as an alternative thickener.
• Gluten-Free: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

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FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice is recommended, but bottled orange juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange glaze for a spicy kick.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with steamed or fried rice to soak up the delicious orange glaze.
• Pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy this flavorful and easy Instant Pot Orange Chicken as a comforting weeknight meal or for entertaining guests!