Pressure Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: 20 Minutes to Heaven

Name: Pressure Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken: 20 Minutes to Heaven
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 13, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s packed with flavor, let me introduce you to my go-to pressure cooker honey garlic chicken! This dish is a total lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet and savory sauce coats tender chicken thighs perfectly, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

What I love most about this recipe is how the pressure cooker transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal in just 20 minutes! Seriously, you won’t believe how easy it is. The combination of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of ginger creates a sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so you can enjoy it guilt-free!

This dish has become a family favorite in my house. My kids can’t get enough of that sticky, sweet sauce, and I love how I can whip it up so quickly. Trust me, once you try this pressure cooker honey garlic chicken, it’ll become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Let’s dive into how to make it!

Ingredients for Pressure Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

To make this delightful pressure cooker honey garlic chicken, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

2 pounds chicken thighs: I prefer using thighs because they stay juicy and tender during cooking, but you can also substitute chicken fillets if you like.
1/2 cup honey: This is where the sweet magic happens! The honey adds a sticky sweetness that beautifully balances the savory elements.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you want to control the saltiness. It brings that umami flavor that’s essential for this dish.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It infuses the dish with aromatic goodness. Trust me, you want that garlicky punch!
1 tablespoon grated ginger: A little bit of ginger adds warmth and a slight zing. It perfectly complements the honey and garlic.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: This is key for thickening the sauce at the end, giving it that luscious, glossy finish.
2 tablespoons water: Just a bit of water to mix with the cornstarch and help it dissolve smoothly.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skimp on seasoning! A little salt and pepper will enhance all the flavors beautifully.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re just a few steps away from a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy the process, and let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Pressure Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward! Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Season the Chicken

First things first, let’s season that chicken! Sprinkle salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken thighs. I usually go for about a teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper, but feel free to adjust to your taste. This step is crucial because it enhances the chicken’s natural flavor and ensures every bite is delicious. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!

Prepare the Honey Garlic Mixture

Next up, let’s whip up that scrumptious honey garlic mixture! In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. I like to whisk it all together until it’s well combined, and the honey is fully incorporated. The balance of sweet and savory here is just magical! You’ll get a thick, sticky sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.

Cooking the Chicken

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Place the seasoned chicken thighs into the pressure cooker. Pour that glorious honey garlic mixture right over the top, making sure to coat the chicken well. It’s important to close the lid securely before you start cooking. Set your pressure cooker to high pressure and cook for 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens! The pressure cooker locks in all those flavors and keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Finishing Touches

Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure. I like to use the quick-release method, but be cautious—hot steam will escape! After the pressure has fully released, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate. Now, let’s make that sauce even better! In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce in the pressure cooker and set it to sauté. Cook it for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish. You’ll love how it transforms!

Serving the Dish

Finally, it’s time to serve! Return the chicken to the pot and give it a good toss in the thickened sauce until it’s well coated. Serve your pressure cooker honey garlic chicken warm, and if you have a side of rice or veggies, that’s even better! Enjoy every bite of this sweet and savory goodness—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home just like it is in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pressure cooker honey garlic chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that you’ll want to revisit time and time again. Here are just a few reasons why this dish is a must-try:

Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to cook.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a sauce that’s simply irresistible. Each bite is bursting with flavor!
One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup for you. Just toss your ingredients in the pressure cooker and let it do the work!
Versatile: Whether you serve it over rice, with steamed veggies, or even in a wrap, this dish adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet, sticky sauce, and it’s a great way to get them excited about eating chicken. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Gluten-Free Option: With a few simple swaps, you can easily make this dish gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worries.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s all about combining simple ingredients into something extraordinary, making dinner both delicious and stress-free!

Tips for Success

To make sure your pressure cooker honey garlic chicken turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips to keep in mind. These little tricks are game-changers and really help elevate the dish!

Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more honey. Just remember to taste as you go! You can also reduce the honey if you’re looking for a lighter flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: No chicken thighs on hand? No worries! Chicken fillets work great too; just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster. You can also use bone-in chicken pieces if you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Fresh vs. Ground Ginger: While fresh ginger adds a lovely zing, you can use ground ginger in a pinch. Just remember that it’s more concentrated, so use about a teaspoon instead of a tablespoon.
Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the honey garlic mixture. It’ll give the dish a delightful kick!
Thickening the Sauce: If you find the sauce isn’t thickening as much as you’d like, don’t hesitate to mix a bit more cornstarch with water and stir it in. Just keep it on sauté until you reach your desired consistency.
Let It Rest: After cooking, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the pot during cooking for a one-pot meal that’s even more nutritious.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most delicious pressure cooker honey garlic chicken. Enjoy the process and have fun in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious pressure cooker honey garlic chicken. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 30g

This meal is not only tasty but also packs a good amount of protein and flavor. Enjoy knowing that you’re serving up a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect pressure cooker honey garlic chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I use chicken fillets instead of thighs?

Absolutely! You can use chicken fillets, but keep an eye on the cooking time since they might cook a bit faster than thighs. Just make sure they’re cooked through and juicy, and you’ll still enjoy that delicious honey garlic flavor!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Making this pressure cooker honey garlic chicken gluten-free is super easy! Just swap out regular soy sauce for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. This simple change keeps all the flavors intact while accommodating dietary needs. Enjoy without worry!

What can I serve with honey garlic chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! I love serving it over fluffy rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also toss it in a wrap with some crunchy slaw for a tasty lunch option!

Can I add vegetables to the pressure cooker?

Yes, you can! Adding veggies like bell peppers or snap peas is a fantastic idea. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking for a delicious, one-pot meal that’s even more nutritious. They’ll soak up all that sweet and savory goodness!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in a pan on the stove. If you find the sauce has thickened too much, just add a splash of water to loosen it up. Enjoy every last bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your delicious pressure cooker honey garlic chicken is a breeze, and I want to make sure you enjoy every last bite! Once your meal has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh and prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in. You can store it in the fridge for about 3-4 days, which means you’ll have a tasty meal ready for those busy days ahead!

Now, when it comes to reheating, you have a couple of great options. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is your best friend! Just pop your portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel (to keep it moist), and heat it in 30-second intervals until it’s warm throughout. Just be careful not to overheat it, as that can dry out the chicken.

If you want to keep that sauce nice and silky, reheating on the stovetop is a fantastic choice. Simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir it gently until it’s heated through, and you’ll have a dish that tastes almost as good as the first time!

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor your pressure cooker honey garlic chicken again and again. Enjoy your flavorful leftovers!

pressure cooker honey garlic chicken - detail 1
ginger soy chicken breast and salt and pepper wings are great options to try alongside this dish!