Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most irresistible Instant Pot Dixie Chicken that'll have your family begging for seconds! This Southern-style recipe combines the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to culinary heaven. In just 40 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that's so easy, even novice cooks can look like kitchen superstars!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels to ensure better sauce adhesion and browning.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and paprika until thoroughly combined to create a rich, flavorful marinade.
- Turn on the Instant Pot and select the "Sauté" function. Allow the inner pot to heat up for 2-3 minutes.
- Lightly spray or brush the Instant Pot inner surface with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken thighs in a single layer in the Instant Pot, allowing them to brown for 2-3 minutes on each side to develop a golden color and seal in flavors.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to "Sealing", and select the "Pressure Cook" mode on high pressure.
- Cook for 15 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before carefully performing a quick release.
- Open the lid and check that chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken thighs and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with your choice of sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before cooking to ensure maximum sauce absorption and beautiful browning.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't skip the sautéing step - it adds incredible depth of flavor and helps create a beautiful golden exterior.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, use the "Sauté" function after cooking to reduce and concentrate the cooking liquid.
- Experiment with different barbecue sauces to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 32g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 160mg
