Instant Pot Chicken Thighs That Will Change Your Weeknight Dinners

Chicken thighs are often underestimated in the kitchen, but they deserve the spotlight. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out if overcooked, thighs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. This makes them a perfect candidate for the Instant Pot, where they can be cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes to roast or bake. Besides that, they are typically more affordable than other cuts of meat, making them a budget-friendly option for families.

Benefits of Using an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot isn’t just a trendy kitchen gadget; it’s a game changer. Here are a few reasons why cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot can elevate your dinner experience:

Speed: Forget about hours of cooking. The Instant Pot drastically cuts down on the time needed to prepare delicious meals.

Flavor: Pressure cooking locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in tender chicken thighs that are bursting with taste.

Versatility: You can sauté, steam, slow cook, and pressure cook all in one pot. That means you can create a full-fledged meal without the need for multiple dishes.

Ease of Use: With simple settings and a user-friendly interface, the Instant Pot makes cooking approachable for everyone, from busy parents to novice cooks.

Getting Started with Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Let’s dive into the essentials for whipping up a quick and delightful meal with your Instant Pot. Here’s what you’ll need for basic Instant Pot Chicken Thighs:

Ingredients

6-8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or skinless)

1 cup of chicken broth or stock

Your choice of seasonings (garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper)

Optional: vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a one-pot meal

Cooking Instructions

Season the chicken thighs generously with your desired spices.

Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and brown the thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This step adds depth of flavor to your dish.

Once browned, remove the chicken and add broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.

Return the chicken to the pot, sealing it tightly. Set to “Pressure Cook” for 10-12 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs.

Let the pressure naturally release for about 5 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Thighs

What goes well with chicken thighs? Almost anything! You can serve them with a variety of sides. Here’s a quick table of some delicious pairings:

Side Dish	Flavor Profile	Preparation Time	Notes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes	Creamy, Savory	20 mins	Make while chicken cooks
Steamed Broccoli	Fresh, Light	5 mins	Quick and nutritious
Quinoa Salad	Nutty, Flavorful	25 mins	Prep in advance

Experimenting with Flavors

The beauty of chicken thighs is how readily they absorb flavors. Try adding different spices, sauces, or marinades to keep your meals exciting. You might try a honey mustard glaze, a spicy salsa verde, or even a creamy mushroom sauce. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting can lead to discovering new favorite dishes for your family.

With just a little bit of prep and your trusty Instant Pot, you can create impactful meals that not only taste wonderful but also save you valuable time during the busy workweek. Enjoy the journey of transforming your weeknight dinners into something phenomenal!

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You have quite a few options when it comes to selecting chicken thighs for your Instant Pot. Bone-in, skin-on thighs will bring an incredible amount of flavor and moisture to the dish, thanks to the bones and skin that help retain juices during cooking. On the other hand, skinless thighs are a great choice if you’re looking for a leaner option or trying to reduce fat content. Both types will end up tender and fully cooked, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. Just remember that if you opt for bone-in, you might experience a richer flavor as the dish cooks.

When it comes to timing, cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot usually takes between 10 to 12 minutes on the “Pressure Cook” setting. Ensure you check that they’ve reached the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee they’re safe to eat. If you’re adding veggies to the pot, like potatoes or carrots, just keep in mind that denser vegetables may require adjustments in timing to ensure everything is perfectly cooked at the same time. And let’s not forget about leftovers. If by chance you have some chicken thighs left over, they’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for around 3 to 4 days. You can enjoy them cold in salads, reheat them for another meal, or shred them to toss into soups or casseroles for a quick yet satisfying dish. Finally, while you can certainly skip the browning step if time is tight, taking a moment to sear the thighs can add depth to the flavor and a beautiful golden color that makes the dish even more appealing.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What types of chicken thighs can I use in the Instant Pot?

You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or skinless thighs in your Instant Pot. Both types will cook well, but bone-in thighs generally retain more moisture and flavor during the cooking process.

How long should I cook chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?

Typically, chicken thighs should be cooked in the Instant Pot for 10-12 minutes on the “Pressure Cook” setting. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the thighs, so it’s best to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I add vegetables when cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli to the Instant Pot. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as denser vegetables may need longer to cook.

What can I do with leftover chicken thighs?

Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They can be enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches, reheated for another dinner, or shredded and added to soups or casseroles for a quick meal.

Do I need to brown the chicken thighs before pressure cooking?

Browning the chicken thighs before pressure cooking is optional but recommended. Searing them enhances the flavor and creates a nice color on the meat. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and pressure cook them directly.