Instant Pot chicken thighs are the perfect solution for quick, flavorful meals with minimal effort. Whether you need a fast weeknight dinner or are meal prepping for the week, cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot guarantees tender, juicy meat every time. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to prepare them, offer helpful tips, and provide creative variations to keep things exciting.
Why Choose Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are a favorite cut of poultry because they remain moist and flavorful, even after cooking. They’re also budget-friendly and versatile. With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy fall-off-the-bone tenderness in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them in the oven or slow cooker.
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this easy recipe:
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on or boneless, depending on preference
- Olive Oil: For sautéing
- Garlic: Fresh cloves minced for added flavor
- Chicken Broth: To keep the meat juicy during pressure cooking
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Paprika and Italian Seasoning: For extra flavor
- Optional Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, or green beans to cook alongside
If you’re looking for other meal ideas, check out our oven-baked Cajun chicken breasts for a flavorful twist.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Season the Chicken Thighs
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken Thighs
Set the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the pot is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown, then flip and sear the other side. This step enhances the flavor and creates a crispy skin.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
After searing, remove the chicken thighs and set them aside. Pour in half a cup of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. This adds flavor to the cooking liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs back into the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.” Cook on High Pressure for 8 minutes (10 minutes for bone-in thighs). Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken thighs and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
- Use Bone-In Thighs for More Flavor: Bone-in, skin-on thighs retain moisture better during cooking.
- Sauté for Extra Crispiness: While the Instant Pot cooks the meat thoroughly, sautéing adds texture.
- Don’t Skip the Natural Release: It ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some potatoes or carrots to make it a one-pot meal.
For more ways to use chicken thighs, explore our easy chicken casserole recipe.
Creative Variations
1. BBQ Chicken Thighs
After pressure cooking, brush the thighs with BBQ sauce and place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
2. Honey Garlic Chicken
Add honey and soy sauce to the cooking liquid for a sweet and savory twist.
3. Lemon Herb Chicken
Use lemon juice, garlic, and rosemary for a Mediterranean flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain flavor and texture:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to prevent dryness.
FAQs: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
- Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
- Yes! Increase the pressure cooking time by 5 minutes for frozen thighs.
- Do I need to sear the chicken?
- Searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.
- What’s the best way to keep the chicken from drying out?
- Use bone-in thighs and let the pressure release naturally for best results.
- Can I cook rice with the chicken thighs?
- Yes, add rice to the Instant Pot with broth, but ensure the timing matches both ingredients.
Serving Ideas for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the rich chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition.
- Gravy or Pan Sauce: Use the remaining liquid from the Instant Pot to make a flavorful gravy.
Conclusion
Cooking Instant Pot chicken thighs is a foolproof way to get tender, juicy results every time. With minimal effort, you can prepare a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you enjoy them with crispy skin or add creative twists like BBQ sauce or lemon herb seasoning, this versatile dish will quickly become a household favorite.
For more chicken ideas, try our creamy chicken and broccoli pasta or discover new ways to cook with roasted chicken thighs.