Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and easy way to enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort. The Instant Pot works magic on chicken thighs, cooking them quickly while keeping them juicy and tender. The result is a perfectly seasoned dish that pairs well with rice, vegetables, or a simple salad. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Perfectly Tender Chicken Thighs
The beauty of using an Instant Pot for chicken thighs lies in its ability to lock in moisture while infusing deep flavors. The pressure cooking process helps break down the connective tissues in the chicken, resulting in a tender, juicy texture. With a simple seasoning blend and a quick cooking time, these chicken thighs are an effortless dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
For this simple yet flavorful dish, you’ll need a few staple ingredients that come together to create a rich and savory meal. The Instant Pot does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dinner in no time.
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot is quick and straightforward, delivering a moist and flavorful result every time. Follow these easy steps to make a tasty meal in just a few minutes:
Step 1:
Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Be sure to coat each thigh evenly for maximum flavor.
Step 2:
Set your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Once hot, add the olive oil and sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor and give the chicken a beautiful, crispy skin.
Step 3:
Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set them aside. Pour the chicken broth (or water) into the pot, scraping any browned bits off the bottom with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot.
Step 4:
Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot, placing them on top of the liquid. Close the lid, seal the valve, and set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Step 5:
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure.
Step 6:
Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and serve immediately. If desired, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy!
How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot
The cooking time for chicken thighs in the Instant Pot will vary depending on their size and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Here are some general guidelines for perfectly cooked chicken thighs:
- Bone-In Chicken Thighs – Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Boneless Chicken Thighs – Cook on high pressure for 7-8 minutes.
- Frozen Bone-In Chicken Thighs – Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
For all types, allow the pressure to naturally release for a few minutes before venting the remaining pressure.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover chicken thighs, storing them properly will ensure they stay juicy and flavorful for later meals:
- Refrigerator – Place the leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
- Freezer – If you have extra chicken thighs, you can freeze them for future use. Wrap each thigh individually in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
To ensure your Instant Pot chicken thighs turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
- Skin-On vs. Skinless – Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is ideal for a crispy texture and richer flavor. If you prefer skinless thighs, you can still follow the same steps, but you may need to adjust the searing time slightly.
- Adjust the Seasonings – Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste. Add more paprika for a smoky flavor or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Don’t Skip the Searing – Searing the chicken thighs before pressure cooking helps lock in flavor and creates a nice crust on the skin. It’s worth the extra step for a more delicious outcome.
- Double the Recipe – This recipe can be easily doubled in the Instant Pot. Just make sure the chicken thighs are stacked in a single layer and that the pressure cooker isn’t too crowded for even cooking.
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