Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

When it comes to weeknight dinners, nothing beats the ease and flavor of Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs. I remember the first time I made this dish. I was exhausted after a long day, and the last thing I wanted was to spend hours in the kitchen. Thankfully, I had my trusty Instant Pot at hand, ready to work its magic. The smell of seasoned chicken wafting through my home was pure bliss. I couldn’t wait to dig in!

Ingredients Overview for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for creating a flavorful dish. In Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs, each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that incredible taste. From the spices to the chicken, it’s a harmonious blend that works together beautifully.

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika: This adds a rich, smoky flavor that enhances the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A staple in many kitchens, it provides depth and savoriness.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: This ingredient complements the garlic and adds sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: A key seasoning that adds a gentle kick.
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves: Offers a subtle earthiness that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in or boneless; skin-on or skinless: The star of the dish, they provide juicy and tender meat.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and helps achieve a lovely sear.
• 1½ cups water: Necessary for the pressure cooking process and to keep the chicken moist.

Preparation Steps for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Preparing Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs is a straightforward process, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal that will impress everyone at your table.

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves until well combined. This spice rub will be the flavor base for your chicken.
2. Trim excess fat or grizzle off the 4 chicken thighs if needed. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure the spice rub adheres properly. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the chicken thighs, rubbing it in well to coat both sides thoroughly.
3. If you wish to sear the chicken for added flavor, turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Let the oil heat until it glistens. This step is optional but highly recommended.
4. Add the seasoned chicken thighs, skin-side down, into the inner pot. Avoid overcrowding; if necessary, work in batches to ensure an even sear. Sear the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until both sides turn golden brown.
5. After browning, remove the chicken to a clean plate and turn the sauté function OFF. Pour in 1½ cups water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate those delicious flavors.
6. Place the trivet inside the pot and then set the seared chicken thighs on top of it. It’s okay if they overlap a bit; they will cook perfectly.
7. Seal the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure that the venting knob is pointed towards sealed. Now, set the cooking time: for bone-in chicken thighs, select 8 minutes on high pressure (10 minutes if not seared first); for boneless skinless thighs, choose 6 minutes (8 minutes if not seared); and for frozen chicken thighs, go for 15 minutes for bone-in or 10 minutes for boneless.
8. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully remove the lid, and use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165° F for safe consumption.
9. Serve the juicy chicken thighs as desired. You can enjoy them simply or pair them with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make the most out of your cooking experience with Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs, here are some pro tips and tweaks that can enhance your meal:

• Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them properly sealed ensures they remain fresh.
• Freezing: If you have extra chicken, consider dicing or shredding the meat and freezing it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. This makes for quick meals later on.
• Pairing: Serve your chicken with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal. The options are endless!
• Broiling for Crispy Skin: For an extra crispy skin, place the cooked chicken thighs skin-side up on a broiler pan and broil on high for 1 to 3 minutes.
• Spice Variations: Experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
• Marinating: Marinate the chicken thighs ahead of time for even deeper flavor. A few hours or overnight can make a big difference!

What to Serve Alongside Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Pairing the delicious Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

• Steamed Vegetables: Fresh steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans make a colorful and nutritious side.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the juices and flavors.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting choice that pairs well with chicken.
• Salad: A light, crunchy salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Wraps: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or tacos along with fresh toppings.
• Seasonal Fruits: Incorporate seasonal fruits like roasted apples or pears for a sweet touch that complements the savory chicken.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even during gatherings. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs recipe is truly special for its simplicity and flavor. It allows you to create a wholesome, delicious meal effortlessly. I encourage you to try it out—it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. With its tender chicken and rich spices, you won’t regret adding this dish to your cooking repertoire.

Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs. Juicy, tender, and infused with flavorful spices, this easy weeknight dinner is perfect for busy days. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 4 pieces chicken thighs bone-in or boneless; skin-on or skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1½ cups water

Equipment

• Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)

Method

 

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves until well combined.
2. Trim excess fat or grizzle off 4 chicken thighs if needed and then pat them dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle the spice rub evenly over the chicken thighs, rubbing the spice blend into the chicken to adhere. Be sure to season both sides of the chicken.
3. To sear the chicken is optional and must be skipped if your chicken thighs are frozen. To saute the chicken, turn the saute function on the Instant pot and add in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Let the oil heat until glistening and then add the chicken thighs, skin-side down into the inner pot. Don't overcrowd the pot, you may need to work in batches to brown the chicken. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until both sides are golden brown. Remove the chicken to a clean plate and turn the saute function OFF.
4. Pour 1½ cups water into the inner pot and scrape up any browned bits off the bottom of the inner pot (if needed.) Place the trivet inside the inner pot and then place your seared chicken thighs on top of the trivet (it is okay if they overlap).
5. Place the lid on the inner pot, and be sure the venting knob is pointed towards sealed. To set the cooking time: Bone-In Chicken Thighs: 8 Minutes on High Pressure (10 minutes if not seared first) Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: 6 minutes on High Pressure (8 minutes if not seared first) Frozen Chicken Thighs: 15 minutes on high pressure, for bone-in chicken thighs, or 10 minutes for boneless chicken thighs.
6. Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then remove the lid and use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165° F.
7. Serve as desired.

Notes

• Super Crispy Skin: Place the cooked chicken thighs on a broiler pan, skin side up. Broil the chicken thighs on high for 1-3 minutes, until nice and crispy.
• Storage: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, dice or shred the chicken meat and freeze it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.