Name: Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Japanese-American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/2 cup honey; 3 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons water; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 8 pieces); 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 3 tablespoons cold water

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 67 reviews

If you crave a dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a touch of zing, then you are absolutely going to love this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe. This meal is a true game changer — juicy, tender chicken thighs infused with a glossy homemade teriyaki glaze made from simple pantry staples, cooked quickly and effortlessly in your Instant Pot. It’s the kind of dish that feels special enough for dinner guests yet easy enough for a weeknight, giving you bold flavors without the fuss. I can’t wait to walk you through the straightforward steps and share tips so your version comes out just right every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows raw light pink chicken pieces placed inside a shiny silver inner pot of a slow cooker. On top of the chicken, a dark brown sauce with visible red chili flakes and small bits of garlic is being poured from a clear glass measuring cup by a woman's hand. The sauce has a glossy, thick texture that covers parts of the chicken, and the inside of the slow cooker reflects the rich colors of the sauce and chicken. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

What makes this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe so distinctive is how the few but essential ingredients come together to create layers of flavor. From the saltiness of soy sauce to the natural sweetness of honey, and the brightness from fresh ginger and garlic, each element plays a key role in building the perfect balance in this dish.

Low-sodium soy sauce: The salty umami base that brings depth without overpowering the chicken.
Honey: Adds a beautiful natural sweetness and helps create that shiny teriyaki glaze.
Rice vinegar: Provides subtle acidity, brightening the sauce and balancing sweetness.
Water: Helps loosen the sauce, ensuring even cooking and perfect consistency.
Garlic (minced): Freshly minced garlic offers aromatic warmth and enhances savory notes.
Fresh ginger (minced): Gives the sauce a zesty kick and vibrant fragrance.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A hint of heat for those who like a touch of spice to contrast sweetness.
Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Succulent and forgiving, these thighs stay tender and soak up the sauce beautifully.
Cornstarch: The secret to that thick, luscious teriyaki sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.
Cold water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth slurry for thickening.

How to Make Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe

Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe - Recipe Image

Step 1: Whisk Together the Sauce

Start by combining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl or a large measuring cup. Whisking these together ensures the flavors marry before they kiss the chicken. This homemade teriyaki sauce is where all the magic begins, delivering a fresh and vibrant alternative to store-bought versions packed with preservatives and excess sugar.

Step 2: Layer the Chicken and Sauce in the Instant Pot

Place the chicken thighs inside your Instant Pot’s pressure cooker insert. To maximize flavor infusion, pour some of the sauce between the chicken layers and generously spoon the remainder atop it. This method allows every bite of chicken to soak in that incredible teriyaki goodness, while the Instant Pot locks in the moisture, cooking the chicken to tender perfection.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Seal the Instant Pot lid according to your model’s instructions and cook on HIGH pressure for 10 minutes. This short, high-heat cooking instantly transforms the chicken into tender, juicy pieces without drying out. The pressure cooking also intensifies the flavor as the sauce simmers around the meat.

Step 4: Natural Pressure Release

Once cooking finishes, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. Then, carefully vent the remaining pressure using the quick release method recommended for your Instant Pot. This two-step release keeps your chicken juicy and avoids any splattering from sudden pressure changes. Always be cautious and follow your device’s safety guidelines!

Step 5: Thicken the Teriyaki Sauce

After removing the chicken, switch your Instant Pot to SAUTE mode to bring the sauce to a gentle boil. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth, creating a slurry that will thicken your sauce without lumps. Slowly pour this into the bubbling sauce, whisking constantly. Within a minute or two, your sauce should transform into a glossy, thickened coating perfect for hanging onto every juicy piece of chicken.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Cancel the SAUTE function and return the chicken thighs to the pot, gently stirring them into the thickened sauce. This final step ensures each piece is covered in that irresistible teriyaki glaze. Serve this vibrant meal immediately, pairing the chicken and sauce with your choice of sides for a perfect dinner experience.

How to Serve Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe

Garnishes

Adding simple garnishes can elevate your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe to next-level deliciousness. Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds over the top for a pop of color and texture. Freshly chopped cilantro adds brightness, while thinly sliced red chili offers a spicy contrast if you want a little more kick. These finishing touches not only enhance the look but layer in subtle flavor nuances.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. Fluffy steamed jasmine rice or sticky sushi rice are classic complements that soak up the teriyaki sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, try serving alongside sautéed or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy. Stir-fried noodles or even a crunchy Asian slaw add textural variety and make your meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Turn your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe into a fun meal format such as teriyaki chicken sliders by shredding the cooked thighs and piling them onto soft buns. Or, use the sauced chicken as a flavorful topping for rice bowls loaded with colorful veggies and a drizzle of spicy mayo. Bento boxes, lettuce wraps, or even flatbread wraps make for playful presentations that delight both the eyes and palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing your Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe properly is a breeze. Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they chill, so it’s perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

For longer storage, this recipe freezes wonderfully. Transfer cooled chicken and sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Your teriyaki chicken will keep well in the freezer for 2 to 3 months, making meal prep a cinch. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally to maintain sauce consistency. If the sauce has thickened too much after chilling, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it while reheating. This keeps your teriyaki chicken juicy and luscious just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they tend to dry out more quickly. Cooking time may remain the same, but you’ll want to watch closely and perhaps reduce cook time slightly for tender results.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the deep umami flavor without gluten. The rest of the ingredients remain the same.

Can I skip the red pepper flakes if I don’t like spicy food?

Of course! The red pepper flakes are entirely optional and meant to add subtle heat. If spice isn’t your thing, leave them out and your teriyaki sauce will still be delicious and well-balanced.

How do I get the sauce thick and glossy?

The key is the cornstarch slurry added at the end while the sauce is boiling. Make sure it is fully dissolved in cold water before adding to avoid lumps. Stirring constantly and allowing it to bubble for a minute or two will give you that perfect velvety texture.

Can I make this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can prepare and pressure-cook the chicken ahead of time, then finish the sauce right before serving to ensure it’s freshly thickened and glossy. This separates cooking from the last-minute step for easy entertaining.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken from Scratch Recipe finds a permanent spot in your meal rotation because it checks all the boxes: simple preparations, wholesome ingredients, and unforgettable flavor. It’s the kind of comforting dish that always brings smiles and seconds at the table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and let’s make some magic in the Instant Pot today!