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Whole30 Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Chicken: A Delightfully Healthy Twist

Are you in the mood for a tangy, flavour-packed meal that aligns perfectly with Whole30 guidelines while also catering to those following Paleo and gluten-free diets? Look no further than this Whole30 Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Chicken recipe from Whole Kitchen Sink! With its vibrant array of ingredients and bold flavours, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

A Wholesome Approach to Takeaway Classics

Sweet and sour chicken is often a takeaway favourite, characterised by its sticky sauce and succulent chicken pieces. However, traditional versions can be laden with sugars and unhealthy additives. This Whole30 rendition utilises clean, wholesome ingredients, ensuring that you can savour every bite without the guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds of chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (for stovetop methods) or olive oil

• For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup of pineapple juice (100% juice with no added sugars)
  • ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ cup of coconut aminos (a soy sauce alternative)
  • 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon of honey or a Whole30-compliant sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder (or tapioca starch) for thickening

• Veggies:

  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 cup of broccoli florets
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
• To Garnish:
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • Chopped green onions (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Instant Pot Method:

1. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté: Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add coconut oil. Once heated, add the chicken and sauté until slightly browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

3. Create the Sauce: In the same pot, combine the pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, tomato paste, honey, ginger, and garlic. Stir well to mix.

4. Add Chicken and Veggies: Return the chicken to the pot, and add the bell pepper, broccoli, and onion. Stir everything together until well coated with the sauce.

5. Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once done, allow for a quick release of the steam.

6. Thicken Sauce: Transfer the contents of the pot to a skillet. Combine arrowroot powder with a tablespoon of water to form a slurry, then add it to the skillet. Simmer on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.

7. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot over cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Skillet Instructions:

1. Prepare Chicken: Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, tomato paste, honey, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer.

4. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Return the chicken to the skillet, along with the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, and onion. Stir to combine, allowing the veggies to cook until tender (about 5-7 minutes).

5. Thicken Sauce: Mix the arrowroot powder with a tablespoon of water and add to the skillet, stirring until the sauce thickens.

6. Serve: Garnish and enjoy your meal with cauliflower rice!

Conclusion

This Whole30 Instant Pot Sweet & Sour Chicken is a testament to how healthy eating can still deliver bold flavours and satisfying textures. By incorporating fresh ingredients and wholesome substitutes, you can enjoy a classic dish without any of the guilt. Whether you opt for the Instant Pot for a quick meal or the skillet for a more hands-on approach, this recipe is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. Embrace the vibrant tastes and wholesome goodness of this dish, and enjoy the best of both health and flavour!