Instant Pot Orange Chicken (Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Meal!)
I’ll admit it: orange chicken is my guilty pleasure. It’s became a running joke in my family that whenever we decide to get takeout, I don’t even have to glance at the menu—I already know I’m getting orange chicken.
But as much as I enjoy the convenience of takeout, I also like recreating my favorite meals at home with simple, real ingredients that make each one a little lighter.
This is why I came up with my Instant Pot Orange Chicken. It’s got everything I love about the classic dish, with a bold, citrusy, sweet-and-savory sauce that clings to tender bites of chicken, making it irresistible.
Plus, it’s all made in my Instant Pot, which locks in all that goodness for a dish that’s easy-to-make and utterly satisfying. With a side of fluffy rice or steamed veggies, this homemade orange chicken is just as good as takeout and twice as healthy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
- Packed with bold, delicious flavors
- Healthier than takeout, with no artificial additives
- Family-friendly and perfect for meal prep
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (freshly squeezed is ideal, but bottled can work in a pinch)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (white vinegar or apple cider vinegar are suitable alternatives)
- 1 tsp Sriracha (you can also add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for a little kick)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- Sesame seeds & chopped green onions for garnish
Prep & Cook Time
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 10 minutes | 20 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken. Cut your chicken into bite-sized cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sauté. Turn on the Instant Pot’s ‘Sauté’ function. Add your vegetable oil and brown the chicken for about 2 to 3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add ingredients for the sauce. Pour in the the orange juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, Sriracha, and orange zest. Stir well to make sure the sauce coats each piece of chicken.
- Pressure cook. Close the lid, turn the knob to the “sealing” position, set the Instant Pot to “High Pressure,” and set the timer to 4 minutes.
- Use the Natural Release method to release pressure. Turn off the heat, then let your Instant Pot cool down naturally for around 5 minutes. Then carefully open the lid.
- Thicken the sauce with the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water, making sure to remove lumps. Stir into the pot. Set to “Sauté” on low and cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens. Afterward, let cool for around 5 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy! Top with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.
Expert Tips for the Best Instant Pot Orange Chicken
- Use fresh orange juice. This makes a big difference in flavor and balances the dish’s flavors naturally.
- Don’t skip the sautéeing part! Browning the chicken adds depth to the overall dish.
- To avoid getting rubbery or tough chicken, don’t cook it on high pressure for more than the recommended time.
- If you want to adjust the sweetness, reduce the sugar to 1/2 or 3/4 cup for a less sweet, more savory finish.
- Instead of water, you can use more orange juice for the cornstarch slurry.
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Sugars |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350 | 30g | 24g | 10g | 17g |
FAQs About Instant Pot Orange Chicken
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots are great additions.
What can I serve with orange chicken?
It pairs well with jasmine rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, zucchini salad, or lo mein.
Homemade Orange Chicken That’s as Convenient As Takeout!
With just a handful of simple ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a homemade version of your takeout favorite in no time.
Sweet, tangy, and perfectly saucy, this orange chicken is sure to become a go-to for busy weeknights and family dinners alike!
