What To Know
- Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry.
- Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this lemon chicken recipe for the Instant Pot and experience a culinary delight that will leave you craving more.
Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a world of vibrant flavors? Look no further than this delectable lemon chicken recipe for the Instant Pot. This dish combines the tangy zest of lemons with the succulent tenderness of chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your Instant Pot, and let’s dive into the magical world of lemon chicken!
Ingredients:
1. 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1/2 cup chopped onion
4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
6. 1/4 cup lemon juice
7. 1/4 cup chicken broth
8. 1/4 cup honey
9. 1 tablespoon soy sauce
10. 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
11. 1/4 teaspoon salt
12. 1 tablespoon cornstarch
13. 2 tablespoons cold water
14. 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Instant Pot:
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function.
- Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Add the Lemon Zest and Juice:
- Add the grated lemon zest and lemon juice to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt.
6. Add the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces into the Instant Pot. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken.
7. Pressure Cook:
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to “Sealing.”
- Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 8 minutes.
8. Natural Release:
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
9. Quick Release:
- After the natural release, perform a quick release by carefully turning the valve to “Venting.”
10. Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
11. Thicken the Sauce:
- Select the “Sauté” function again. Bring the sauce to a simmer and slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry.
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
12. Garnish and Serve:
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve the lemon chicken over rice or noodles, garnished with additional lemon slices.
Tips for Perfect Lemon Chicken:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a tender and juicy result.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and honey to suit your taste preferences.
- For a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch slurry as needed.
- Serve the lemon chicken immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Incorporate some chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, for a colorful and nutritious dish.
- Experiment with different types of citrus fruits, such as oranges or limes, for a unique twist.
Health Benefits of Lemon Chicken:
- Lemon chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
- Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system and promotes overall well-being.
- Honey provides natural sweetness without refined sugar, making it a healthier alternative.
Final Note:
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this lemon chicken recipe for the Instant Pot and experience a culinary delight that will leave you craving more. With its tangy lemon zest, succulent chicken, and rich sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your Instant Pot, and embark on a journey of taste that will tantalize your senses.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Simply thaw it completely before cooking.
Q: How can I make the sauce creamier?
A: Add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce before serving.
Q: Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can. Cook the chicken on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
