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There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from creating a delightful meal in no time at all. The moment I discovered this ginger soy chicken recipe using my Instant Pot, I realized I had stumbled onto a true weeknight hero. The tender chicken wings and drumsticks are bathed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce that dances off the palate, making any ordinary dinner feel extraordinary.

Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of ginger filling your kitchen as it melds with the rich scent of soy sauce. It’s an invitation for friends and family alike to gather around the table. With just eight minutes of cooking time and a handful of ingredients, you can serve a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this ginger soy chicken checks all the boxes for culinary simplicity and satisfaction. Let’s dive into the recipe that promises to elevate your dinner game in a flash!

Why is Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot) a Must-Try?

Ease of Preparation: This recipe is designed for everyone, even if you’re new to cooking. Just sauté, seal, and let the Instant Pot work its magic!

Savory & Sweet Harmony: The balance of ginger and soy sauce creates a flavor sensation that’s both comforting and exotic, perfect for tantalizing taste buds.

Quick & Efficient: With only eight minutes of cooking time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, stir-fried veggies, or even toss it in a salad for a fresh take, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this ginger soy chicken guarantees compliments from all! For more quick meal ideas, check out my easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients for Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot)

• You’ll love how simple and flavorful this dish is!

For the Chicken
• Chicken wings and drumsticks – A mix of these cuts gives you tender meat and crispy skin.
• Oil – Use vegetable oil for high heat searing, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.

For the Sauce
• Ginger – Fresh ginger adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the sweet soy sauce.
• Soy sauce – Regular soy sauce provides a savory depth; feel free to choose low-sodium if preferred.
• Sweet soy sauce – This adds a delightful sweetness, balancing the saltiness of the other sauces.
• Ground white pepper – Just a dash elevates the flavor with subtle heat.
• Water – Helps create a saucy consistency while cooking under pressure.
• Sesame oil – A finishing touch that introduces a nutty aroma, making the dish irresistibly fragrant.

For the Garnish
• Scallion – Chopped fresh scallions introduce a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that refreshes each bite.

How to Make Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot)

Chop the chicken drumsticks into two to three pieces. This helps them cook evenly and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
Sauté by turning on the Saute mode on your Instant Pot. Add the cooking oil once it’s heated and pan sear the chicken pieces until they turn slightly brown, about 5 minutes.
Add the ginger slices and sauté briefly to release their fragrant oils. Then, mix in the soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, ground white pepper, sesame oil, and water. This creates a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken.
Seal the pot by covering it, selecting Manual, and setting it to High pressure for 8 minutes. This short cooking time ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy.
Release the pressure once the timer beeps by turning to Quick Release. When the valve drops, carefully remove the cover. Stir in the scallions for a fresh crunch before serving! If the sauce needs thickening, turn on Saute mode and reduce it for about 1 minute.

Optional: Serve over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot) pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil up to 24 hours in advance. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Additionally, you can chop the chicken and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply sauté the marinated chicken and follow the cooking instructions as directed, resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious and satisfying as if it were freshly prepared. Happy cooking!

Variations & Substitutions for Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot)

Get creative with your ginger soy chicken and bring your unique touch to this mouthwatering dish!

Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste for a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
Citrus Infusion: Mix in the zest of one lime or orange to the sauce for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens the dish.
Herbaceous Boost: Toss in chopped fresh cilantro or basil before serving to add a fragrant herb note that elevates the entire meal.
Honey Glaze: Swap out sweet soy sauce for honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with seitan or tofu, adjusting cooking time for the proteins; this is a perfect option for plant-based diets.
Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished dish to create a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty aroma of the sesame oil.
Vegetable Medley: Add thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the Instant Pot for a colorful and nutritious boost that makes the meal even heartier.
Bone-In Chicken: Use bone-in thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture; increase cooking time by a few minutes to ensure thorough cooking.

These variations allow you to personalize your ginger soy chicken and make it an exciting dish for any occasion. Enjoy exploring!

What to Serve with Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot)?

Elevate your meal experience by pairing this savory chicken with delightful side dishes that complement its flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the delicious sauce, creating a satisfying balance that enhances every bite.
Garlic Sautéed Bok Choy: This crunchy green brings a fresh, peppery contrast, making each mouthful vibrant and nutritious.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds coolness and texture, perfect for offsetting the warmth of the ginger and soy sauce.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These provide a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, making for an appetizer that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the savory elements of the dish, adding a comforting touch.
Asian-Inspired Slaw: Shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a light dressing offer a crisp and zesty complement to the dish.
Sesame Noodles: These soft noodles provide a garlicky, nutty complement that rounds out the meal perfectly, making it hearty and fulfilling.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and lightly bittersweet, it cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of your ginger soy chicken.
Mango Sticky Rice: As a sweet finale, this dessert combines tropical notes with a creamy texture, completing your dining experience on a high note.

How to Store and Freeze Ginger Soy Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover ginger soy chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.

Freezer: Freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For best flavor and texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring the sauce stays saucy and delicious.

Cooling: Allow the chicken to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing to prevent condensation and moisture buildup.

Tips for the Best Ginger Soy Chicken

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ginger and high-quality soy sauce for a more vibrant flavor. Avoid using old and stale ingredients that can dull the dish.

Even Cooking: Make sure to chop the chicken pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption from the ginger soy sauce.

Pressure Release: Remember to perform Quick Release carefully to avoid hot steam burns, ensuring a safe and seamless cooking experience.

Sauce Consistency: If the sauce seems too watery after cooking, don’t hesitate to use the Sauté mode to reduce it to your desired consistency, enhancing the dish’s flavor.

Garnish Brightness: Adding scallions at the end not only brightens the dish visually but also elevates the taste with a fresh crunch, completing your ginger soy chicken beautifully!

Ginger Soy Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ginger?
Absolutely! Look for ginger that is firm, smooth, and free of wrinkles or dark spots. Fresh ginger should feel heavy for its size and have a strong, spicy aroma. If the skin is dry and the root looks shriveled, it’s likely past its prime.

How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover ginger soy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve the flavors.

Can I freeze ginger soy chicken?
Of course! To freeze, place your cooled ginger soy chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and enjoy a quick meal later!

What if my chicken is not cooking evenly?
No worries! To ensure even cooking, chop the chicken pieces uniformly—about the size of a chicken wing segment. If you notice some pieces remain pink after cooking, you can always return them to the Instant Pot, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time until fully cooked through.

Is this recipe safe for pets?
Let’s take a moment to think about our furry friends! While the ingredients in ginger soy chicken are safe for humans, the soy sauce contains sodium that is not good for pets. It’s best to keep this dish to yourself and serve your pets their specially prepared meals instead.

How can I modify this recipe for allergy concerns?
Absolutely! If you have soy allergies, you can substitute the soy sauce with coconut aminos or a homemade soy sauce alternative. For gluten-free diets, be sure to use gluten-free soy sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed, and you’ll still have a flavorful ginger chicken!