Irresistible Honey Garlic Chicken with Rice 🍗🍚 – Quick & Flavorful!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Why You Should Try This Recipe 🤩
This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe combines sweet, savory, and a touch of crispiness in one simple yet flavorful dish. By utilizing your Airfryer for the chicken and the Instant Pot for the rice, you get a perfectly balanced meal in just 35 minutes! Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook, this easy, time-efficient recipe is a winner for dinner. Plus, it’s packed with protein, flavor, and comforting rice that will satisfy the whole family. 🍴
Table of Contents
Ingredients 🛒
For the Honey Garlic Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons honey 🍯
- 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 2.5 cups water
Optional Garnishes:
- Green onions (for a fresh touch)
- Sesame seeds (for added crunch and flavor)
Equipment You’ll Need 🧰
- Air Fryer (for crispy chicken)
- Instant Pot (for perfectly cooked rice)
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions 📋
1. Prepare Your Equipment 🔧
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Ensure the Instant Pot insert is clean and dry.
2. Mix the Honey Garlic Marinade 🍯🧄
- In a small mixing bowl, combine honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
- Stir until fully blended.
3. Season the Chicken 🍗
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Brush the honey garlic mixture generously onto the chicken breasts.
4. Cooking Time! ⏱️
- Air Fryer: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- Instant Pot: Meanwhile, add the jasmine rice and water to the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 4 minutes.
- After the Instant Pot finishes cooking, allow the rice to naturally release for 10 minutes.
5. Assemble Your Dish 🍽️
- Slice the chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Serve the sliced chicken over the fluffy jasmine rice.
6. Optional Garnish 🌱
- Top with green onions and sesame seeds for a fresh and crunchy finish.
Pro Tips for Success 🌟
- Start with the rice: Since the rice requires a natural release after cooking, start it first to save time.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Make it crispier: For extra crispy chicken, lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil before cooking.
- Save the sauce: Drizzle any leftover honey garlic sauce over the chicken and rice for an added flavor boost.
Nutritional Information for Honey Garlic Chicken 🍽️
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 48g
- Fat: 12g
FAQs ❓
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?
A1: Yes, you can! However, brown rice will take longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time in the Instant Pot accordingly (usually around 22 minutes on HIGH pressure).
Q2: How can I make this dish spicy?
A2: For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the honey garlic sauce. Adjust to taste!
Q3: Can I use boneless skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A3: Absolutely! Boneless skinless thighs will also work wonderfully and provide even more juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Storage Tips 🥡
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken and rice separately for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove when ready to serve.
- Sauce Storage: The leftover honey garlic sauce can be stored in a small jar for up to a week in the fridge—perfect for drizzling on future meals!
This Honey Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Whether you’re in a rush or cooking for a special dinner, you can’t go wrong with this delicious, time-saving meal! Enjoy your flavorful, crispy chicken paired with fluffy rice—your tastebuds will thank you! 😋