Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

There’s nothing quite like tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked to perfection, and the Instant Pot makes it easier than ever to achieve that mouthwatering flavor and texture. With a simple blend of spices, a quick sear, and a short pressure cooking time, these chicken thighs come out flavorful and fall-off-the-bone tender every single time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the days ahead, this recipe is a total game-changer. Plus, it’s packed with rich aromas and comforting flavors that will have your whole family asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’ve ever struggled to get chicken thighs crispy on the outside while keeping them juicy inside, the Instant Pot offers a foolproof solution. This recipe combines the best of both worlds: a quick sear to develop a golden, flavorful crust and then pressure cooking to lock in moisture. The spices—paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—create a beautifully balanced seasoning that enhances the natural richness of the chicken without overpowering it.

Not only is this dish incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, from fluffy rice to roasted vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad. The use of chicken stock adds depth to the sauce, which you can thicken or drizzle over your plate for added richness. And best of all? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you still want a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on, 6-8 pieces)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chicken stock or broth

How To Make Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely when searing. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh, making sure every piece is well coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” setting and add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pot. Sear for about 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to develop a golden brown crust. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes. This step adds texture and flavor that pressure cooking alone cannot achieve.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Remove the chicken thighs temporarily and set them aside. Pour the chicken stock into the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom — these add incredible flavor to the sauce. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, skin-side up, arranging them in a single layer as much as possible.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 10 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and place them on a serving plate. If you want to thicken the sauce, switch the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” and simmer the liquid for a few minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a crispy skin.
• Don’t skip the searing step—it locks in flavor and gives you a beautiful golden crust.
• If your Instant Pot has a “Keep Warm” function, turn it off before searing to prevent overheating during this step.
• Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and texture. Boneless or skinless can be used but will yield a different result.
• For even cooking, try to arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer inside the pot.
• If you prefer extra crispy skin, you can broil the thighs in the oven for 2-3 minutes after pressure cooking.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the spice rub for heat.
• Herbaceous Twist: Swap dried oregano for fresh thyme or rosemary for a different aroma.
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Increase garlic powder to 1 teaspoon or add 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic during the sauté step.
• Different Broths: Use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or add a splash of white wine along with the chicken stock for richness.
• Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the seasoning blend or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving for brightness.
• Glazed Variation: Stir in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce before pressure cooking for a subtle sweetness.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, which helps maintain the skin’s texture better than microwaving alone. You can also freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but keep in mind they will cook faster and won’t have the crispy skin. Reduce the pressure cooking time to about 8 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken thighs before pressure cooking?

While not absolutely necessary, searing adds wonderful flavor and texture. It creates a golden crust and helps lock in moisture, making your chicken more delicious overall.

How do I know when the chicken thighs are fully cooked?

Chicken thighs are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Pressure cooking for 10 minutes with natural release ensures they are tender and safe to eat.

Can I double this recipe in the Instant Pot?

You can double the recipe if your Instant Pot is large enough (6-quart or larger), but make sure not to exceed the “Max Fill” line. Cook time remains the same, but arrange the chicken in a single layer as much as possible.

Conclusion

Instant Pot chicken thighs are a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste or quality. This recipe’s simple seasoning, combined with a quick sear and pressure cooking, produces tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, golden skin every time. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these chicken thighs are sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting, delicious results!