15 Minute Instant Pot Orange Chicken

My 15-Minute Instant Pot Orange Chicken: A Weeknight Winner

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other demands of modern life, a quick and easy meal is often a necessity, not a luxury. That's why I've fallen head over heels for this 15-minute Instant Pot Orange Chicken recipe. It's a lifesaver on those crazy weeknights when time is of the essence but a satisfying, flavorful meal is still a must.

Forget spending hours slaving away in the kitchen; this recipe harnesses the power of the Instant Pot to deliver restaurant-quality results in a fraction of the time. The tender, juicy chicken, coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for the pickiest eaters. My kids absolutely devour this dish, and I love knowing they're getting a protein-packed meal without the fuss. The best part? Cleanup is a breeze! The Instant Pot makes washing up so much simpler, leaving me with more time to spend with my family, instead of scrubbing pots and pans.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the instructions are incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. I often double the recipe so that we have leftovers for lunch the next day, which is another major plus for busy schedules. Beyond the convenience, the flavor profile is truly exceptional. The balance of sweet orange marmalade, savory soy sauce, and smoky barbecue sauce creates a complex and irresistible taste that's both comforting and exciting. It’s a dish that effortlessly elevates a simple weeknight dinner to something special, without requiring any specialized culinary skills.

I've experimented with variations over time, sometimes adding a touch of ginger or garlic for extra zest. Sometimes, depending on what's in the fridge, I'll serve it over a bed of rice or noodles, while other times, we just enjoy it on its own. The versatility is what I truly appreciate. It can be adapted to suit your preferences and whatever you have available, while still maintaining that delicious signature flavor. It's become a staple in our household, a quick and reliable option when time is short but delicious food is a non-negotiable.

So, if you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that's both quick and delicious, I highly recommend giving this 15-minute Instant Pot Orange Chicken a try. You won't be disappointed. It's the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and family-friendly appeal, making it a true winner in our busy home.

Ingredients I used:

• 4 chicken breasts (avoid thin breasts)
• ¾ cup favorite dark (sweet) barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• ¾ cup orange marmalade
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Tips and Tricks for Success:

• Using hearty chicken breasts ensures they don't overcook in the Instant Pot.
• Mixing the cornstarch with a small amount of the sauce before adding it to the pot prevents lumps.
• Allowing the sauce to rest after cooking helps it thicken further.
• Get creative with garnishes! Sesame seeds or chopped cilantro would also be delicious additions.
• Don't be afraid to adjust the amounts of soy sauce and orange marmalade to suit your taste preferences.

This recipe is a testament to the fact that delicious, satisfying meals don't have to be time-consuming. Embrace the convenience of the Instant Pot and enjoy a delightful dinner that's as easy to make as it is to savor. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights and a recipe that's guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Step-by-step

• Chop chicken breasts into hearty bite-size chunks.
• In Instant Pot, add in chopped chicken, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce.
• Cook on manual high for 4 minutes.
• When done, fast release steam.
• Take 1/4 cup of the barbecue chicken sauce out of the Instant Pot and mix with cornstarch in a small bowl. (This prevents lumps. Cornstarch will thicken the sauce.)
• Add the cornstarch broth mixture back into the Instant Pot.
• Add orange marmalade. Mix well.
• Change the setting on the Instant Pot to sauté and sauté for 6 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
• Allow it to rest 5 minutes before serving. This will thicken the sauce also.
• Garnish with green onions. Serve over rice, noodles, or by itself.