Instant Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe

Instant Pot chicken thighs refer to chicken thighs cooked in an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, making them incredibly tender and quick to prepare. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken every time. You can use either bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, and the cooking process is fast and efficient. By adding seasonings, broth, or sauces, you can customize the flavor to your liking, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.

Cooking Instant Pot chicken thighs typically takes around 12-15 minutes at high pressure for fresh chicken, depending on the thickness of the thighs. If you’re using frozen chicken, you may need to increase the cook time to 18-20 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes before doing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. The chicken should be perfectly cooked and tender, ready to serve.

Preparing Instant Pot chicken thighs is always a straightforward and rewarding experience. The chicken consistently turns out tender and juicy, with minimal effort required. The best part is how quickly you can prepare a delicious meal with just a few simple ingredients. Whether using a savory garlic and herb seasoning or a tangy BBQ sauce, the Instant Pot ensures the flavors infuse perfectly, creating a dish that never disappoints. The ability to cook chicken from frozen makes it a go-to recipe for busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

• Quick and Easy: This Instant Pot chicken thighs recipe is perfect for busy nights. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken ready to serve. The Instant Pot speeds up cooking, saving you time while keeping the chicken juicy and delicious.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and flavorful. With the Instant Pot, they cook to perfection every time. You’ll enjoy a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite that’s full of savory taste and moisture, making it the ideal comfort food.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot means less mess in the kitchen. With this recipe, you’ll only need your Instant Pot. The easy cleanup is another reason why this dish is a winner for busy home cooks.

Ingredient Notes for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

• Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy, chicken thighs are perfect for Instant Pot cooking. They cook quickly and stay moist, making them ideal for a hassle-free meal.
• Olive Oil: Adds a rich, smooth flavor and helps brown the chicken thighs before pressure cooking. It also helps with the seasoning sticking to the chicken.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a warm, savory taste without the need for fresh garlic. It blends well with other spices, giving your dish that perfect garlic flavor.
• Onion Powder: Adds depth and sweetness to the chicken. It enhances the overall flavor profile without being too overpowering.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a mild smoky flavor to the chicken. It’s perfect for creating a savory, slightly smoky base that complements the other seasonings.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors. Salt enhances the natural taste of the chicken, while pepper adds a mild heat that elevates the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Provides moisture during cooking and enriches the flavor. It helps to keep the chicken thighs tender and juicy in the Instant Pot.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami and a hint of saltiness, which works well with the other ingredients, especially the chicken broth.

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs Variation

You can easily switch things up with different seasonings or marinades for your Instant Pot chicken thighs. Try adding lemon and thyme for a fresh, herby flavor, or use a BBQ sauce glaze for a smoky twist. You can also try adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to cook with the chicken for a one-pot meal.

If you prefer boneless chicken thighs, they cook a little faster and are perfect for a quick, weeknight dinner. Simply adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes instead of 12.

Another variation is to make a creamy sauce by adding a little heavy cream and parmesan cheese at the end of the cooking process. Stir it in until the sauce thickens for a rich, flavorful finish.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Instant Pot chicken thighs are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• With Rice: Serve the chicken thighs over steamed rice. The sauce will soak into the rice, creating a flavorful base.
• With Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting meal, serve the chicken thighs with mashed potatoes and a side of green beans or roasted vegetables.
• In a Salad: Let the chicken cool and shred it to add to a salad for a light but satisfying meal.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken thighs with roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and balanced dish.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you can easily store Instant Pot chicken thighs for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigeration: Let the chicken cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

FAQs About Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Can I use frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot; just add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time. Ensure there’s enough liquid to prevent burning.

Do I need to brown chicken thighs before pressure cooking?
Browning chicken thighs before cooking adds flavor and color but isn’t necessary. It’s optional, depending on your preference.

What can I add to the Instant Pot for extra flavor?
You can add spices, herbs, garlic, or even a marinade for extra flavor. Chicken broth or water is essential to create steam for pressure cooking.

How do I prevent chicken thighs from becoming dry?
To keep chicken thighs juicy, use enough liquid and avoid overcooking. The Instant Pot’s steam helps lock in moisture, so follow recommended cooking times.