Instant Pot EASY Sesame Chicken and Rice Recipe

So you’re craving takeout-style sesame chicken, but you also don’t want to wait 40 minutes, pay delivery fees, and then wonder why you ordered enough food for six people? Same. Sometimes you want that sweet, savory sesame flavor without leaving your kitchen.

That’s where this Instant Pot EASY Sesame Chicken and Rice recipe swoops in like a dinner superhero. It’s juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a sticky sesame sauce all cooked together in one pot. Minimal effort, maximum flavor, and fewer dishes—honestly, what more could we ask for?

Why This Recipe Is Awesome

First, it’s basically a one-pot miracle. Chicken, rice, and sauce all cook in the same Instant Pot. Translation: fewer dishes and less cleanup.

Second, the flavor is classic takeout goodness. Sweet soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of ginger create that signature sesame chicken flavor everyone loves.

Third, it’s beginner-friendly. Seriously, if you can measure a cup of rice and press a button, you’ve already mastered half the recipe.

And let’s not ignore the biggest win: you get a full meal in under 30 minutes. That’s dinner efficiency at its finest.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (optional but awesome)
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Optional toppings:

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn on sauté mode.
Set your Instant Pot to sauté and add olive oil. Let it heat for about 30 seconds.

2. Cook the garlic and ginger.
Add minced garlic and ginger and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen should already smell amazing.

3. Add the chicken.
Place the chicken pieces in the pot and lightly sear for about 2 minutes.

4. Add the rice and liquid.
Pour in the rice, chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Stir gently so the rice is evenly distributed.

5. Pressure cook the dish.
Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.

6. Let the pressure release.
Allow natural pressure release for about 5 minutes before opening the valve.

7. Thicken the sauce.
Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir it into the Instant Pot and turn on sauté mode until the sauce thickens.

8. Add sesame oil and finish.
Stir in sesame oil for that signature nutty flavor.

9. Garnish and serve.
Top with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Adding too little liquid. The Instant Pot needs enough liquid to cook properly.

Skipping the cornstarch step. That’s what gives the sauce its sticky texture.

Overcrowding the pot. Too much food can affect cooking.

Forgetting sesame oil. It adds the key sesame flavor.

Overcooking the rice. Stick to the pressure time for perfect texture.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Want it spicy? Add chili flakes or sriracha.

Prefer brown rice? Increase cooking time slightly.

Need a low-sodium version? Use low-sodium soy sauce.

Want more veggies? Add broccoli, carrots, or snap peas after cooking.

IMO, adding steamed broccoli turns this into a perfect takeout-style bowl.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase cooking time by about 3–5 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats well for meal prep.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze sesame chicken and rice?
Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

What type of rice works best?
Jasmine rice gives the best texture.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very. It’s slightly sweet and not spicy.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot EASY Sesame Chicken and Rice is one of those recipes that feels like a dinner cheat code. One pot, simple ingredients, and flavors that taste like your favorite takeout spot.

So the next time you’re tempted to order delivery, remember: your Instant Pot is ready to save the day. And honestly, your wallet will probably thank you too.