Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking to whip up a delectable meal that’s quick, succulent, and packed full of flavor, this recipe for Instant Pot chicken thighs is just what you need.

With tender, juicy meat that falls right off the bone, these chicken thighs are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection in no time! This dish is an impressive option for dinner guests yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about cooking with an Instant Pot.

Not only does it reduce cooking time significantly, but it also locks in moisture and flavor like no other method.

Chicken thighs, in particular, benefit from this cooking technique.

They stay juicy and tender thanks to their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts.

Plus, seasoning them with paprika, oregano, and garlic powder elevates their flavor profile to new heights.

In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have a comforting and satisfying meal on the table.

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 Thighs

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

This step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up beautifully during the cooking process.

Next, generously season the chicken on both sides with paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

This combination of spices will create a savory crust that enhances the flavor profile of the chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Turn on your Instant Pot and set it to the “Sauté” mode.

Add the olive oil and butter, allowing it to heat up.

Once the butter has melted, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the pot, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Sear the thighs for about 4-5 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

Flip them over and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.

Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

With the chicken thighs removed, it’s time to deglaze the pot.

Carefully pour in the chicken stock or broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits.

This step is vital as it prevents the burn notice and adds incredible flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Place the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up.

Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure that the valve is set to sealing.

Select the “Pressure Cook” mode and set the timer for 15 minutes.

Once the cooking time is up, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Crisp the Skin (Optional)

If you desire an extra crispy skin, preheat your oven to broil.

Once the chicken thighs are finished in the Instant Pot, transfer them to a baking sheet and place them under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Broiling will give you that irresistible crispy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chicken is golden and crispy to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

Serve your delicious Instant Pot chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Enjoy the symphony of flavors!

Expert Tips

• For even more flavor, marinate the chicken thighs in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• If you prefer a hint of heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
• To make this dish even heartier, add potatoes or carrots to the pot during the pressure cooking phase.
• Always ensure that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the chicken thighs for chicken drumsticks or breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly (breasts cook quicker than thighs).
• Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• For a balsamic twist, replace the chicken stock with balsamic vinegar and a little honey for a sweet and tangy glaze.
• Incorporate veggies such as bell peppers or onions along with the chicken for a complete meal cooked in one pot.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely.

Place the chicken thighs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to reheat, simply place them in the microwave or a conventional oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.

FAQ

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but reduce the cooking time to about 10 minutes under pressure for optimal tenderness.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Is it possible to make this recipe with chicken breasts instead?

Absolutely! While the cooking time will be less (around 10 minutes), chicken breasts will lose some juiciness compared to thighs due to their lower fat content.

Can I double this recipe in the Instant Pot?

You can double the recipe, but be mindful not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot.

Additionally, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly, so monitoring the internal temperature of the chicken is crucial.

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple, yet savory recipe for Instant Pot chicken thighs that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

With a minimal amount of prep time and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can serve up a delicious meal that is not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor.

Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe according to your taste, and enjoy the ease of putting this delightful dish on your table any day of the week! Happy cooking!