Instant Pot Sesame Chicken

A cornstarch slurry is the best way to thicken the sauce for sesame chicken. After cooking the chicken, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a smooth paste. Then, add the slurry to the sauce while it's simmering and continue cooking until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency. Other ways to thicken a sauce include arrowroot or flour. Alternatively, you can reduce the sauce by simmering it and allowing the excess liquid to evaporate.

Can you use chicken thighs for Instant Pot sesame chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for Instant Pot sesame chicken. Chicken thighs have more fat compared to lean chicken breasts, so they're juicier, more tender and have a richer taste. When cooking chicken, you may need to adjust the time for chicken thighs because they can sometimes take longer to cook in the Instant Pot or pressure cooker.

What do you serve with Instant Pot sesame chicken?

Instant Pot sesame chicken pairs well with other authentic Asian recipes. Like other Chinese chicken recipes, our favorite way to serve it is by scooping it over a bed of rice or noodles, allowing the starch to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s also great with side dishes like a vinegar-based slaw, scallion pancakes or wontons.

—Lindsay Mattison, Taste of Home Contributing Writer