Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

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Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard. The tender, juicy chicken thighs paired with a medley of vegetables make this a comforting, satisfying meal. Plus, it comes together in no time thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot! Whether you’re whipping up dinner for your family or preparing for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, this Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is the answer. The chicken thighs turn perfectly tender under pressure, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the honey and mustard sauce. You’ll love how the hearty baby potatoes and carrots cook to perfection alongside the chicken, creating a complete meal in one pot. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, ensuring that you have a homemade, tasty dinner on the table quickly.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 6 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 3 tablespoons stone ground mustard/whole grain mustard (NOT ground mustard powder)
• 1 pound (450g) baby potatoes, sliced in halves
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-2 inch pieces

How To Make Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add the olive oil and let it heat up. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pot, skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Deglaze

Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and set them aside. Add the minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the pot to loosen any browned bits.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

Return the chicken thighs to the pot. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and stone ground mustard. Pour this wonderful mixture over the chicken, followed by adding ½ cup of water. The combination of mustards with honey creates a beautifully rich sauce that will coat the chicken and veggies.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Next, add the halved baby potatoes and sliced carrots to the Instant Pot, making sure they are nestled around the chicken. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and absorbs the delicious sauce.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and seal the valve. Set to ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for 12 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure before the 12-minute countdown begins.

Step 7: Release Pressure and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release to let out the steam. Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid and serve your Honey Mustard Chicken straight from the pot! The aroma is simply irresistible.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the honey mustard mixture for a couple of hours before cooking.
• If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water and stir it in after cooking, then sauté for a few minutes to thicken.
• Always ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Feel free to replace chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts, though cooking time may need adjustment.

Variations and Customizations

• Add other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different twist.
• Spice things up by incorporating a teaspoon of paprika or some red chili flakes for heat.
• For a herby flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary to the mix just before sealing the pot.
• Use maple syrup in place of honey for a unique flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken and vegetables gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, a splash of chicken broth can help bring it back to the desired consistency.

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, the cooking time may be reduced to about 8-10 minutes, as boneless meat cooks faster.

Why is my chicken not cooking through?

Make sure that the chicken thighs are properly immersed in the sauce and ensure the Instant Pot is sealed well before cooking. If the chicken is particularly large, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked honey mustard chicken and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove.

What can I serve with honey mustard chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad on the side. The flavors complement a variety of starches and sides for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

Incorporating delightful flavors and wholesome ingredients, Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is a fantastic recipe to have in your arsenal. With just one pot, you can create a hearty meal that everyone at the table will love. The sweet and tangy mustard sauce, paired with tender chicken and vibrant veggies, is a combination that will keep you reaching for seconds. Don’t hesitate; bring the comforting flavors of this dish to your dining table tonight!

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