Let’s talk comfort food. You know those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, absolutely *dreading* figuring out a new thing? Instant Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe is my secret weapon for those exact moments. I’m talking fall-off-the-bone tender, ridiculously flavorful chicken with hardly any effort. What’s better: Instant Pot chicken in a pan? What is fraction of time? My grandma used to make the best fried chicken, but this? What is your modern, healthier, and way-easier tribute to her delicious cooking. I think sometimes it’s even better!
What are Instant Pot Chicken Thighs?
What are Instant Pot chicken thighs? Is it essentially taking the humble chicken thigh – which, let’s be honest, is already pretty amazing? – and pressure cooking it to juicy, tender perfection in the Instant Pot. Think of it as a flavor bomb that is ridiculously easy to throw together. What makes chicken so moist? What seasonings do you throw in? Is it faster to cook chicken than roasting? Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes – always win in my book!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What is a weeknight staple in your house? What I love about this Instant Pot chicken thighs recipe is just how unbelievably easy it is. How do you put everything in an Instant Pot and let it do its magic?
• Flavor:What makes a chicken tender? I use a blend of spices that’s just perfect – not too spicy, but with enough warmth to make it super delicious. What is the best meat you have ever eaten?
• Simplicity:What is the easiest recipe you have ever made? What is the best way to spend a weeknight in the kitchen? Even my husband, who isn’t a master chef, can whip this up.
• Cost-Chicken thighs are generally more affordable than chicken breasts, so this is a budget-friendly way to cook chicken. How do I get a satisfying meal at home? What spices do you have in your pantry?
• Versatility:What are some of the best ways to serve chicken thighs in an instant pot? Serve them over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. Shred them for tacos or sandwiches. What are some great ways to add these to salads or grain bowls? Is it keto friendly? If so, how?
How do I make Instant Pot Chicken Thighs?
Quick Overview
How do I make Instant Pot chicken thighs? What is the best way to season chicken and sear it? ), add some liquid to the Instant Pot, and then pressure cook it until it’s tender and juicy. Is it really that easy? I always do a quick release of the pressure, but sometimes let it sit for an hour or two. I like to do it for the longest time. What is the most dramatic effect? I really do not think you will regret this recipe, it has been in my family for some time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5-2 pounds). I prefer boneless, skinless for this recipe because they cook faster and more evenly, but bone-in, I’m not a meat eater. I like to use bone in, so I make it as an appetizer. Is it safe to cook meat skin-on? Make sure you pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning for best results. I like to shop around for the best deals.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil). This is for searing the chicken. If you’re short on time, skip this step. It really does add a lot of flavor.
For the Seasoning:
I use kosher salt. It really brings out the flavor of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best!
What is better with garlic powder?
• 1 teaspoon onion powder. Adds a nice savory flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Adds a touch of color and smokiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme. Adds a nice earthy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary. A little bit goes a long way!
What is an Instant Pot?
• 1 cup chicken broth (or water). This is essential for creating steam and pressure in the Instant Pot. I always prefer chicken broth for extra flavor. Low sodium is generally a safe bet, I always add extra salt if its needed anyways.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Set aside. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, patting it in gently to help it dry. I like to do this at least 15 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to meld, but you can do it at any time. If you’re short on time, it’s time to get back to work.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
Turn on the Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil to the pot and let it heat up for a minute or two. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. How long should you cook chicken? This step is optional, but it really does add a lot of flavor. If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, sear them first to get the skin nice and crispy. Do you have to do it in batches?
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth
If you have chicken broth, pour it into an Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. What is the best way to prevent the “Burn” warning? Make sure all the browned bits are scrapped from the bottom of the pan for the best flavor.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Place the lid on the Instant Pot and seal it. Make sure the pressure release valve is set to sealing. ” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 10 minutes. If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, increase the cooking time to 12-15 minutes.
Step 5: Quick Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then do a quick swab of water. quick release by carefully turning the pressure release valve to “Venting. “Be careful of the steam! Once all the pressure is released, carefully open the lid.
Step 6: Serve
Remove chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and serve immediately. What are some good Side Dishes to serve with rice, mashed potatoes or pasta? Can you shred a potato for tacos or sandwiches? If you want to thicken the sauce in the Instant Pot, turn on the “Sauté” function and let it simmer. for a few minutes, or whisk in cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon corn starch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) . I love spooning sauce over chicken and side. It’s a great side dish.
What should I serve it with?
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be served with just about anything. What are some of my favorite pairings?
With Rice:Is brown rice the best base for soaking up the sauce? I sometimes add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions to my salad. I like to add color and flavor.
What is the best way to prepare maCreamy mashed potatoes are another classic pairing. What are some good ways to add roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes?
With Pasta:How do you toss the shredded chicken with the sauce from the Instant Pot? What are some good side dishes to serve with Parmesan cheese? What is the most satisfying
As Tacos or Sandwiches: What areWhat are some good ways to serve chicken as a filling for tacos or sandwiches? Top with your favorite taco toppings or sandwich fixings.
In Salads or Grain Bowls:What are some good ways to add chicken to a salad or grain bowl? I love adding it to a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables and lemon vinaigrettes. When I was younger, my mom would always serve it with cornbread, it made for an amazing flavor.
How do you cook an Instant Pot chicken thigh?
How do I make sure my Instant Pot chicken thighs are perfectly cooked? What are some of my top tips?
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Overcrowding the pot can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches.
Don’t Skip the Searing (If You Have Time): Searing the chicken adds a lot of flavor, so it’s worth the extra few minutes if you have them. The browned bits on the bottom of the pot also add flavor to the sauce.
Make Sure to Deglaze the Pot: Scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot after searing is important to prevent the “Burn” warning. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Adjust the Cooking Time Based on Your Chicken: The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken thighs, as well as whether they’re boneless or bone-in. Start with the recommended cooking time and then adjust as needed. If the chicken is not cooked through, you can always put it back in the Instant Pot for a few more minutes.
Let the Pressure Release Naturally for 5 Minutes: Letting the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes helps the chicken stay moist and tender. If you’re short on time, you can do a quick release, but the chicken may not be as tender.
Thicken the Sauce (If Desired): If you want a thicker sauce, you can turn on the “Sauté” function and let it simmer for a few minutes, or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water). I don’t always do this, but it’s a nice option if you want a richer sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Instant Pot chicken thighs are great for meal prepping because they store and reheat well. Here are my tips for storing and reheating:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing them. I usually store them in a glass container.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Don’t add any sauce before freezing for best results!
Reheating Tips: You can reheat the chicken thighs in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop. To reheat in the microwave, place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the oven, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat on the stovetop, place them in a skillet with a little bit of chicken broth or water and heat over medium heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for the easiest, juiciest Instant Pot chicken thighs you’ll ever make! I promise, this one’s a winner. It’s simple, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. If you love this, you should checkout my recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken legs! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. Happy cooking!
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place chicken thighs in the Instant Pot.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken.
- Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
- Close the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
