Name: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2-3 lbs chicken thighs (skin on, fresh or frozen); 2 Tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable); 1 cup liquid (water, chicken broth, apple, or pineapple juice); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of perfectly cooked chicken thighs. I vividly remember the first time I made Instant Pot Chicken Thighs. It was one of those hectic weeknights where everyone was tired and hungry, and I needed a solution that would be both quick and satisfying. As I gathered my ingredients, I couldn’t help but feel excited. The thought of juicy, tender chicken ready in just a short while was irresistible. The Instant Pot sat on the counter, promising to deliver a delicious meal with minimal effort. Setting it to sauté, I could already imagine the rich flavors mingling together. Once the dish was done, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing the family to the table. It was a hit! Each bite was a reminder of why I love cooking, especially when it involves a simple yet flavorful dish like Instant Pot Chicken Thighs.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
330 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

What You’ll Enjoy About This Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Quick and Easy

The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Thighs lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a wholesome meal that feels gourmet. The pressure cooker cuts down on cooking time, allowing you to go from prep to plate in no time.

Flavorful and Juicy

There’s nothing like the rich flavor of well-seasoned chicken. The Instant Pot ensures that the thighs stay moist and tender, absorbing all the delicious juices from the cooking process. It’s a guaranteed way to impress your family!

Versatility

Another reason to love this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap out the liquids or spices to create a variety of flavor profiles. Whether you prefer a classic savory taste, a fruity twist, or something spicy, the Instant Pot Chicken Thighs can adapt to your cravings.

Minimal Cleanup

Let’s face it, one of the best perks of using an Instant Pot is the minimal cleanup. With just one pot to wash, you can enjoy your meal without worrying about a pile of dishes waiting for you.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, you’re in luck! The flavors of Instant Pot Chicken Thighs only get better the next day. Whether you use them in tacos, salads, or as a protein for your lunch, they are incredibly versatile.

Family-Friendly

This dish is a crowd-pleaser! Kids love the tender chunks of chicken, and it’s a great way to incorporate protein into their meals. Paired with veggies or rice, it becomes a complete and satisfying dinner option.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

The ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are straightforward and emphasize quality. Fresh or frozen chicken thighs are the star of the show, bringing rich flavor and tenderness. A blend of healthy oils and savory seasonings enhances the dish, while a liquid component adds moisture and depth. These ingredients work together in harmony, ensuring a deliciously satisfying meal.

2-3 lbs chicken thighs, skin on, fresh or frozen: The main ingredient, these thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for pressure cooking.
2 Tablespoons oil, canola or vegetable: This helps to achieve a crispy skin during the sauté process.
1 cup liquid (water, chicken broth, apple, or pineapple juice): Essential for the pressure cooking process, it adds moisture and flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Elevates the flavors of the dish and enhances the natural taste of the chicken.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick that balances the seasoning.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Making Instant Pot Chicken Thighs is a breeze! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked chicken that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. You’ll love how simple it is to create this delightful meal in your pressure cooker.

Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté setting. Add the oil and let it heat up for a minute. You want it hot enough that the chicken thighs will sizzle when they hit the pot.
While the oil is heating, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Feel free to add any other spices that you enjoy!
Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs to the pot, skin side down. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the skin is a deep golden brown. This step is crucial for flavor, so don’t rush it.
Carefully flip the thighs over and sear the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes. When they’re done, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Now, add your cup of liquid to the pot, scraping up any browned bits that have stuck to the bottom. These bits add incredible flavor to your dish.
Place a trivet inside the pot and arrange the seared chicken thighs on top of it. This keeps the thighs from sitting directly in the liquid, allowing them to steam perfectly.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure the vent is set to “sealed”.
For boneless thighs, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. If you’re using bone-in thighs, set it for 10 minutes. If you’re using frozen chicken, increase the time to 12 minutes for boneless and 15 minutes for bone-in.
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes. After that, turn the valve to “venting” to release any remaining steam.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a thermometer; it should reach 165 degrees. If it’s a bit shy, place the lid back on and let it rest for an additional 5 minutes.
Finally, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure proper sealing: Make sure the lid is sealed correctly to avoid any steam leaks during cooking.
Liquid is key: Never skip the liquid; it’s crucial for creating steam and avoiding the burn message.
Resting time is important: Always let the chicken rest after cooking. This makes it juicier and more flavorful.
Use bone-in thighs: They tend to be more flavorful compared to boneless cuts.

Making Adjustments

Life is all about adjustments, and so is cooking! Here are some useful tips to tailor your Instant Pot Chicken Thighs experience.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Freezing: These chicken thighs freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a refreshing salad for a well-rounded meal.
Flavor variations: Experiment with different spices or marinades to give your chicken a unique twist each time you make it.
Add vegetables: You can add veggies like carrots or potatoes to the pot for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Chicken Thighs, the possibilities are endless. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them:

With rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
In tacos: Shred leftover chicken and use it as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos.
With a salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Meal prep: Use the chicken in meal prep; it holds up well in various dishes throughout the week.
Family gatherings: This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it’s easy to make in large batches.
For special occasions: Dress up the dish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a more elegant presentation.

FAQ

Yes! In fact, one of the great things about the Instant Pot is that you can cook frozen chicken thighs without thawing them first. Just make sure to increase your cooking time to about 12 minutes for boneless and 15 minutes for bone-in. This makes it an excellent option for those last-minute meals!

There are plenty of options! I love serving Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with steamed veggies, rice, or even a fresh salad. You can also shred the leftover chicken and use it in tacos or sandwiches for a quick lunch. The possibilities are endless!

Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing, and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy!

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or even broccoli to the Instant Pot along with the chicken. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. This not only enhances the meal but also makes it a complete one-pot dish!

Conclusion

In summary, Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a hearty meal, bringing family and friends together at the table. With its juicy tenderness and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate; try making it tonight and experience the joy of a satisfying, homemade dinner!