Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are a lifesaver for busy nights! This simple recipe delivers perfectly cooked, juicy chicken thighs in a fraction of the time it takes to roast them in the oven. With a flavorful seasoning blend and the magic of pressure cooking, these chicken thighs are versatile enough to pair with your favorite side dishes or shred for tacos, salads, or pasta dishes.
Equipment:
- Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl
Ingredients:
- 4–6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs, skin-on (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for added flavor)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over the chicken thighs. - Sear the Chicken (Optional):
Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. - Deglaze the Pot:
Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce (if using) to deglaze the bottom of the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits, which add flavor to the dish. - Pressure Cook:
Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the chicken thighs on top. Seal the lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position. Cook on “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” mode at high pressure for:- 10 minutes for boneless chicken thighs
- 12 minutes for bone-in chicken thighs
- Natural Release:
Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. - Serve or Broil:
For crispy skin, transfer the chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2–3 minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Presentation Ideas:
- Plate the chicken thighs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or rice, drizzled with the flavorful cooking juices from the Instant Pot.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
Tips:
- For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken thighs with the seasoning blend for 1–2 hours before cooking.
- Use the sauté function to reduce the cooking liquid for a quick sauce or gravy.
- Double the recipe if needed; just ensure the chicken pieces are evenly arranged for proper cooking.
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are a quick, flavorful, and versatile dinner option that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Try it out and enjoy perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe
Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, these Instant Pot chicken thighs are perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes!
Equipment
- Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 4 –6 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs skin-on (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce optional, for added flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning blend evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional):
- Set the Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the chicken broth and soy sauce (if using) to deglaze the bottom of the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits, which add flavor to the dish.
- Pressure Cook:
- Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the chicken thighs on top. Seal the lid and set the valve to the "Sealing" position. Cook on "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" mode at high pressure for:
- 10 minutes for boneless chicken thighs
- 12 minutes for bone-in chicken thighs
- Natural Release:
- Allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to "Venting" to release any remaining pressure.
- Serve or Broil:
- For crispy skin, transfer the chicken thighs to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2–3 minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
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