Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of pineapple and savory chicken to your table in just 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or any occasion when you crave a taste of the islands. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant vegetables makes this dish not only easy to prepare but also irresistibly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy sauce elevates the flavor profile, offering a satisfying experience with each bite.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can easily prepare this recipe ahead of time for quick reheating during the week.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative; customize it to fit your dietary preferences.
• Family-Friendly: The delightful combination of flavors ensures that even picky eaters will enjoy this meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot or pressure cooker
• Large mixing bowl
• High-speed blender
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking time with its pressure cooking function, making meals quick and easy.
• High-Speed Blender: Ensures your sauce is smooth and well-mixed, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for chopping chicken and vegetables safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken is full of fresh pineapple chunks, juicy and tender chicken, bell peppers, onions, and a sticky sweet and spicy sauce. This easy pressure cooker meal can easily be prepped ahead for busy weeks and on the dinner table in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
– ¼ cup cornstarch (or tapioca flour)
– ¾ teaspoon salt (divided, to taste)
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
– 15- oz can pineapple chunks in juice (divided)
– ¼ cup ketchup
– 3 tablespoons sugar (or coconut sugar)
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce or Tamari (Tamari sauce, or coconut liquid aminos)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
– 1 lime (juice)
– 2 cloves garlic crushed
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce (optional)
– 2 bell peppers (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1 red onion (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– Green onions
– Rice

How to Make Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes with cornstarch, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly.
2. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add oil. Allow it to heat until sizzling.
3. Add chicken cubes in a single layer to the pot. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes.
4. After sautéing, scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent any bits from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a high-speed blender, add ¾ cup pineapple chunks, ⅓ cup pineapple juice, ketchup, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, lime juice, crushed garlic, Sriracha sauce (if using), and ¾ teaspoon salt.
2. Blend for 20–30 seconds until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Everything in the Pot

1. Pour the sauce over the sautéed chicken while lifting it off the bottom of the pot to avoid burning.
2. Place chopped bell pepper and onion on top of the chicken without stirring.

Step 4: Cook and Release Pressure

1. Securely place the lid on your Instant Pot and close the pressure valve.
2. Select High Pressure on manual settings and set the timer for 5 minutes.
3. Once cooked, allow for an additional natural pressure release by keeping the lid closed for another 5 minutes after cooking ends.

Step 5: Serve the Pineapple Chicken

1. Turn off your Instant Pot and carefully open the pressure valve once safe.
2. Open the lid when unlocked; stir in remaining finely chopped pineapple chunks.
3. Serve your Hawaiian chicken over rice or cauliflower rice topped with green onions.

Enjoy this colorful dish that brings a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen!

How to Serve Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Serving Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken is a delightful experience that can be tailored to suit various tastes. This dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of chicken, making it perfect for any meal occasion.

Over Rice

• Serve over steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the sweet and spicy sauce, enhancing each bite.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option. Fill them with chicken and fresh veggies for a crunchy, refreshing treat.

With Cauliflower Rice

• For a healthier alternative, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice. It’s a great way to enjoy this dish while keeping carbs in check.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish your Hawaiian chicken with chopped green onions. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile with its mild onion taste.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your dish with a light salad. Crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette complement the richness of the chicken beautifully.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

To ensure your Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and vegetables will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Avoid canned options where possible.
• Don’t Skip Sautéing: Sautéing the chicken before pressure cooking adds depth and prevents burning at the bottom of the pot.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, increase the amount of Sriracha or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like snap peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A classic side that provides essential nutrients and complements the sweetness of the chicken well.

2. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed option that can be tossed with herbs, lemon juice, and veggies for added freshness.

3. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy mashed sweet potatoes add sweetness and creaminess, balancing out the flavors of the chicken.

4. Roasted Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus brings a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with tender chicken.

5. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing balance to this savory dish.

6. Coconut Rice
   Sweet coconut-infused rice pairs perfectly with Hawaiian flavors, enhancing each bite’s tropical essence.

7. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Charred corn adds smoky sweetness that complements the pineapple in your chicken dish splendidly.

8. Garlic Noodles
   Quick garlic noodles offer an Asian twist that pairs wonderfully with your sweet and savory Hawaiian chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Scraping Step: Not scraping the bottom of the pot after sautéing can lead to the dreaded BURN error. Always ensure there are no stuck bits before adding other ingredients.

• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much chicken or vegetables can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended quantities for best results.

• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Failing to allow for natural pressure release can lead to tough chicken. Always let it sit for an additional 5 minutes after cooking.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Use precise measurements, especially for liquids and sauces. Improper ratios can alter flavor and consistency.

• Forgetting to Reserve Some Pineapple: Skipping the addition of reserved pineapple chunks at the end can reduce sweetness and texture. Always stir in those fresh chunks before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best used within 2–3 months for quality retention.

Reheating Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally until warm.

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until evenly warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will add extra moisture and flavor to your dish.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or Tamari as a substitute for regular soy sauce.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other veggies like carrots or snap peas for added nutrition and color.

What should I serve with Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a healthy side option.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Hawaiian Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level. Give it a try, and enjoy a tropical twist on your dinner table!