Instant Pot Orange Chicken: The Ultimate Orange Chicken Recipe

Name: Instant Pot Orange Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 – 2 inch pieces; 1 2 cup tomato sauce; 1 cup orange juice; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2.5 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch; 1.5 tablespoons water; 0 Optional: Rice for serving, Chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish

Introduction to Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Instant Pot Orange Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your dinner table. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion where you want to impress your family or guests. With tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!

A Personal Story Behind My Instant Pot Orange Chicken Journey

Growing up, my family often enjoyed takeout from our local Chinese restaurant. One of our favorites was the orange chicken. I loved the combination of flavors and the comforting feeling it brought. When I discovered the Instant Pot, I knew I had to recreate that beloved dish at home. After several attempts and adjustments, I finally perfected a version that’s quick, easy, and just as delicious as the restaurant’s. Now, I can share this joy with all of you!

What Makes This Instant Pot Orange Chicken Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is not just the convenience of making it in the Instant Pot, but also the depth of flavor achieved with fresh ingredients like ginger and garlic. The use of orange juice and zest adds a refreshing brightness that complements the savory soy sauce and the kick from sriracha. This recipe is versatile too; you can easily adjust the spice level or swap out the chicken for a vegetarian option, making it suitable for everyone at your table.

The Full Instant Pot Orange Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 – 2 inch pieces
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 cup orange juice
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 1/2 tablespoons water
Optional: Rice for serving, Chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish

Instructions

Heat the Instant Pot using the Saute function on medium heat. This will help to brown the chicken and enhance the flavors.
Add vegetable oil to the Instant Pot. Once heated, add the chicken pieces, fresh grated ginger, and orange zest. Saute for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly to ensure even cooking.

Next, add in the tomato sauce, orange juice, vinegar, minced garlic, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, and an extra pinch of orange zest for good measure. Mix everything well to combine all the flavors.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set the valve to “sealed,” and choose High Pressure. Set the timer for 10 minutes. This will ensure your chicken becomes tender and flavorful.
After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This step is crucial for maintaining the juiciness of the chicken. Then, manually release any remaining pressure by moving the valve to “vent.”

Switch back to the Saute function on low heat. This will allow us to thicken the sauce.
In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully.
Add the slurry to the chicken in the Instant Pot and stir well. Allow it to cook on Saute for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Once thickened, turn off the Instant Pot. Your delicious orange chicken is now ready!
Serve the orange chicken over a bed of rice and garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a vibrant touch. Enjoy your homemade meal!
For an alternative serving suggestion, consider serving over vermicelli noodles for a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Instant Pot Orange Chicken

This Instant Pot Orange Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of fresh greens or quinoa. Want to mix things up? Try serving it with vermicelli noodles—just as satisfying! Additionally, if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower florets. For those who like an extra kick, simply increase the amount of sriracha sauce to suit your spice preference.

Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Orange Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Ensure the chicken is cooked through before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and then cook it in the Instant Pot just before serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative such as tamari.