If you are craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet unbelievably easy to make, this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. With tender chicken breasts bathed in a luscious, sticky teriyaki sauce, this dish brings that perfect balance of sweet and savory that makes your taste buds dance. What’s even better is how effortlessly it comes together in your Instant Pot, turning what could be a time-consuming meal into a quick, satisfying feast. Whether you’re cooking for your family or want a delicious meal prep option, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — just a handful of essential ingredients that each play a critical role in achieving that rich teriyaki flavor and velvety texture. Every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of taste, color, and comfort into this dish.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully while staying juicy and tender.
- ½ cup water: Helps the Instant Pot build pressure and ensures the chicken cooks perfectly without drying out.
- 1 ½ cups teriyaki sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up a homemade batch for that signature sweet and savory flair.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: The secret to thickening the sauce into a glossy coating that clings beautifully to the chicken pieces.
- Cooked rice: The classic, fluffy base that makes every bite satisfyingly complete.
- Steamed vegetables: Adds color, nutrients, and a fresh crunch to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Optional garnishes (chopped green onions, sesame seeds): These little touches elevate the presentation and add bursts of flavor and texture.
How to Make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Pressure Cook the Chicken
Begin by placing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the Instant Pot. Pour the teriyaki sauce and water evenly over the chicken — this combination not only infuses the meat with incredible flavor but also ensures it steams to tender perfection. Seal the lid and select the high-pressure cooking setting for 12 minutes. Once the timer goes off, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure to keep the juices locked inside the chicken for maximum moistness.
Step 2: Thicken the Sauce
With the chicken removed and resting safely on a plate, switch your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. This is where the magic happens — whisk in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into the remaining liquid in the pot until the sauce thickens into a glossy, irresistible glaze. This step transforms your simple cooking juices into the rich teriyaki coating that defines this dish.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces to make every forkful easier to enjoy. Toss the chicken back into the pot and stir thoroughly to coat each piece with that luscious thickened teriyaki sauce. This final step ensures every bit is bursting with flavor. Serve hot over a bed of fluffy cooked rice along with your favorite steamed vegetables, and sprinkle with garnishes if using.
How to Serve Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds isn’t just about looks — they bring a fresh crunch and subtle flavor lift that wakes up your palate and adds a pleasing contrast to the tender chicken and sauce. They make your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe feel a little more special and restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
While steamed veggies such as broccoli, snap peas, or carrots are classic and nutritious, you can explore sides like garlic fried rice or even a light, peppery Asian slaw to diversify textures and flavors. These sides complement the richness of the chicken while keeping your meal balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, simply plate the chicken and rice in bowls for a comforting meal. For something a bit fancy or party-friendly, serve the chicken teriyaki over sesame noodles or as a filling in lettuce wraps. Presentation is a fun way to reinvent this recipe without changing the delicious base.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled right after serving preserves the flavors and texture, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers that feel just like the first night.
Freezing
If you want to meal prep or save portions for later, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately from rice in freezer-safe containers or bags. This method prevents soggy rice and lets you thaw and reheat just the parts you need. Frozen teriyaki chicken lasts up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the chicken and sauce without drying it out. If you froze the rice separately, warm it and combine just before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully and tend to be even juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, usually a bit less, since thighs cook faster than breasts.
How do I make homemade teriyaki sauce for this recipe?
Homemade teriyaki sauce is simple with soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of mirin or honey. Simmer these ingredients until thickened for a fresh, customizable alternative to store-bought sauces.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for the teriyaki sauce, and ensure any other ingredients, like cornstarch, are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this recipe without worry.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
You can! Just make sure not to overfill your Instant Pot; it’s safest to stay within 2/3 of the pot’s capacity. If doubling, consider cooking in batches for the best results.
What can I substitute for cornstarch in this recipe?
Arrowroot powder or tapioca starch are excellent substitutes and work similarly to thicken the sauce without changing the flavor or texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about a meal that’s both simple to make and incredibly flavorful, and this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe hits the mark perfectly. Whether you’re new to Instant Pot cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe welcomes you with open arms and promises a delicious outcome every time. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your weeknight rotation!
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Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts cooked in a rich teriyaki sauce. Finished with a thickened glaze and served over rice and steamed vegetables, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors ideal for a family meal or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup water
- 1 ½ cups teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
To Serve
- Cooked rice
- Steamed vegetables
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare and cook chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot and pour the teriyaki sauce along with water evenly over the chicken. Secure the lid and ensure the valve is sealed. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally to keep the chicken tender.
- Thicken the sauce: Once pressure is released, carefully remove the chicken breasts and set them aside. Switch the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and whisk in the cornstarch into the remaining sauce until it thickens into a glaze consistency.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot. Stir thoroughly to coat each piece with the thickened teriyaki sauce.
- Serve: Plate the teriyaki chicken over cooked rice and steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use low-sodium teriyaki sauce.
- Allowing natural pressure release helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
- Cornstarch slurry should be whisked well to avoid lumps when thickening the sauce.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- You can customize the vegetables to your preference or use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
