Instant Pot Firecracker Chicken

If you’re craving a spicy, tangy, and irresistibly saucy chicken dish that comes together in no time, look no further than this Instant Pot Firecracker Chicken. This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that packs a flavorful punch, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. The Instant Pot does all the hard work, cooking the chicken perfectly while infusing it with bold flavors. Plus, it’s super easy to customize based on your spice preference and what you have in your pantry. Ready to turn up the heat in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Firecracker Chicken is a crowd-pleaser for a reason—it balances heat, sweetness, and tang beautifully. Using the Instant Pot not only speeds up cooking time but also helps the chicken absorb all those delicious flavors without drying out. This recipe is perfect for those who want a restaurant-quality dish at home, without the fuss or the wait. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is straightforward, flavorful, and sure to become a fast favorite. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, and it pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) chicken breasts, cubed into bite-size or 1 inch pieces
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup water (divided: 1/4 cup to deglaze the pot and 1/4 cup added to the chicken and sauce)
• Firecracker sauce ingredients (suggested):
  • 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce (ensure it’s halal-certified or substitute with a homemade or trusted brand)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use a halal-certified brand or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or your favorite chili sauce (adjust for preferred spice level)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds

How To Make Instant Pot Firecracker Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with the cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly so each piece is evenly coated. This step helps give the chicken a beautiful texture and allows it to thicken the sauce slightly as it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and heat the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the chicken pieces lightly on all sides for about 3-4 minutes. You don’t need to cook them fully at this stage; just get some color on them. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Add 1/4 cup of water to the pot and scrape the bottom with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This is crucial to avoid the “burn” warning on the Instant Pot and adds extra flavor to your sauce.

Step 4: Make the Firecracker Sauce

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then pour in the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, honey, and sriracha. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for a minute.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

Return the browned chicken back into the pot. Add the remaining 1/4 cup of water. Stir to combine everything well. Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 7 minutes.

Step 6: Quick Release and Thicken

When the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure. Remove the lid and stir the chicken and sauce. If you prefer a thicker sauce, set the pot back to “Sauté” and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon the Firecracker Chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier, more forgiving cut.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch coating—it helps thicken the sauce and gives the chicken a nice, slightly crispy texture even after pressure cooking.
• Deglazing the pot is essential to prevent the Instant Pot from burning and to scoop up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
• If you like your firecracker sauce extra spicy, add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• For a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure your chili sauce is gluten-free.
• Feel free to double the sauce ingredients if you like a saucier dish.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to the pot after sautéing the chicken. Use the steam function to cook the veggies along with the chicken for a one-pot meal.
• Protein swap: Try shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Sweetness level: Adjust the honey or maple syrup to your taste. For a tangier kick, add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice.
• Heat level: Increase or decrease the amount of chili sauce or add fresh chopped chilies for more heat.
• Nutty flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or top with crushed peanuts for a Thai-inspired variation.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Firecracker Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well—place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you will need to increase the pressure cooking time to about 10-12 minutes to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

Is this recipe spicy? Can I make it milder?

The recipe has a moderate spice level thanks to the sriracha and chili sauce. To make it milder, reduce or omit the sriracha and use a mild sweet chili sauce. You can always add more spice later if desired.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can make Firecracker Chicken on the stovetop by sautéing the chicken until cooked and then simmering in the sauce until thickened. It will take a little longer but still be delicious.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Firecracker Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, noodles, or even a fresh green salad. Roasted or steamed vegetables also make excellent sides.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Firecracker Chicken is a fantastic recipe to add to your dinner rotation—easy, quick, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and spicy sauce hits all the right notes and can be tailored to suit your heat preference or dietary needs. With minimal prep and the magic of the Instant Pot, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in under 30 minutes. Don’t forget to garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for that final pop of color and flavor. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a go-to favorite for busy nights and family dinners alike!