If you’re searching for a one-pot meal that brings together the savory richness of chicken, the aromatic goodness of garlic, and the delightful sweetness of brown sugar, look no further than this Instant Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests at a dinner party.

Plus, it’s all made in your trusty Instant Pot, which means less time spent cleaning up and more time enjoying your delicious creation!

Enjoy the succulent tenderness of chicken thighs cooked to perfection, enveloped in a luscious garlic and brown sugar sauce.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your cooking rotation!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Instant Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors.

There are several compelling reasons why you should try this recipe:

Quick and Convenient: With the Instant Pot, you can have a hearty meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, brown sugar, and herbs creates a sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over rice or vegetables.
Tender and Juicy: Cooking the chicken thighs under pressure ensures they remain juicy and tender.
Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

To whip up this fantastic dish, you will need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 tablespoons butter, divided
4-6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1 cup chicken stock
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon honey
¼ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon chopped fresh parsley for serving

How To Make Instant Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken

Ready to create a spectacular meal? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Begin by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté function.

Once it’s hot, add the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.

Carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the pot.

Season them with salt and black pepper.

Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Turn the chicken over and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and crushed garlic.

Stir and cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant, making sure not to let it burn.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits.

This adds flavor to your sauce! Then, stir in the brown sugar, honey, oregano, basil, and thyme.

Mix well until the brown sugar is completely dissolved.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Return the seared chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.

Close the lid and set the pressure release valve to sealing.

Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.

Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, you can turn the Instant Pot back to sauté mode to reduce the sauce if desired.

Drizzle the delicious sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal!

Expert Tips

To ensure your Instant Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

Use Bone-In Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs add flavor and remain juicy compared to boneless options.
Let the Chicken Rest: Allow your chicken to rest after cooking for maximum juiciness.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar and honey to suit your taste preferences.
Add Vegetables: For a one-pot meal, add some vegetables such as carrots or broccoli during pressure cooking.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is versatile, and you can customize it in various ways:

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or thyme based on your preferences.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and adjust cooking accordingly.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which might be rare given how delicious this dish is), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or reheat in the Instant Pot with a splash of chicken stock to maintain moisture.

Enjoy this scrumptious chicken in salads or wraps for a quick lunch!

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time to about 8 minutes to prevent drying them out.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the recipe ahead and refrigerate it.

Just reheat gently before serving.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Thaw and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Garlic Brown Sugar Chicken is a harmonious blend of flavors that will quickly become a family favorite.

It’s easy to make, packed with taste, and perfect for any weeknight meal or special occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

So, grab your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy a delectable dish that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!

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