If you are looking for a cozy, deeply savory dinner that comes together quickly, this Instant Pot soy braised chicken is one of those recipes you will want to keep on repeat. It delivers rich Chinese-inspired flavor, fall-off-the-bone tender chicken, and naturally sweet braised carrots in a glossy sauce that is perfect for spooning over steamed rice. Best of all, the pressure cooker does most of the work for you!
The Signature Chinese Flavor Of Star Anise
One of the defining flavors in this dish is star anise. This classic Chinese spice adds a subtle licorice-like warmth and depth that makes soy braised dishes feel instantly more authentic and layered. It brings that unmistakable comforting aroma often found in traditional Chinese red-braised recipes.
As the chicken pressure cooks, the star anise gently perfumes the sauce without overpowering it. Instead, it enhances the savory soy base and balances the sweetness from the honey, creating a complex yet very approachable flavor profile.
Why This Sauce Works So Well
Using both low-sodium soy sauce and dark soy sauce creates a more balanced and visually appealing braise. The low-sodium soy sauce provides seasoning and umami, while the dark soy sauce contributes a deeper color and a slightly richer, caramel-like note.
Garlic and ginger add brightness and warmth, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy. Together, these simple ingredients create a glossy, aromatic sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Tender Chicken And Naturally Sweet Carrots
Carrots cook right alongside the chicken, becoming soft, naturally sweet, and infused with the savory sauce. They help round out the dish and make it feel more complete as a one-pot meal.
After pressure cooking, allowing the sauce to simmer briefly on sauté mode helps concentrate the flavors and create that signature glossy finish.
How To Serve And Store
This soy braised chicken is best served over hot steamed rice so every drop of the sauce can be enjoyed. It also pairs well with simple vegetable sides like sautéed napa cabbage, bok choy, or a light cucumber salad for freshness.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving.
Instant Pot Chinese Soy Sauce Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup baby carrots or large carrots cut into chunks
Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup dark soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup Shaoxing wine or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- 1 inch ginger sliced
- 2 whole star anise
Instructions
- Combine the soy sauces, water, shaoxing wine, honey, garlic, ginger, and star anise together in a bowl.
- Add the chicken drumsticks and carrots into the Instantpot. Pour in the sauce and star anise to mix.
- Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
- Switch to sauté mode and simmer the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
- Serve hot over steamed rice. Garnish with green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
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