Indulge in the rich flavors of instant pot chicken thighs, a dish that combines convenience and taste. The pressure cooking method locks in moisture, ensuring tender, juicy chicken every time. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is quick to make, yet impressive enough to serve guests. Get ready to savor a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 chicken thigh with sauce): Calories: 320, Protein: 24g, Fat: 22g, Carbohydrates: 3g, Fiber: 0g. This nutritional information is based on a serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat olive oil.
3. Once hot, add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5 minutes until golden.
4. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
5. Remove chicken and set aside.
6. Pour chicken broth and soy sauce into the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
7. Return chicken to the pot, skin-side up.
8. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” for 10 minutes.
9. Once cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the steam.
10. Remove chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute bone-in chicken thighs with boneless ones for a quicker cooking time. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor. Feel free to experiment with different spices like Italian herbs or curry powder for a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
These instant pot chicken thighs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or over rice for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not searing the chicken long enough can lead to less flavor.
- Skipping the deglazing step may result in a burnt taste.
- Overcrowding the pot can prevent even cooking.
- Using too much liquid can make the dish watery.
- Not letting the chicken rest can result in dry meat.
Helpful Tips
- For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for a few minutes after cooking.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
- Experiment with different sauces for variety.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook chicken thighs in an Instant Pot?
Cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot takes about 10 minutes under high pressure, plus time for the pot to come to pressure and for natural release, totaling around 25 minutes.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but the cooking time should be reduced to about 7-8 minutes under high pressure for optimal tenderness.
What should I serve with instant pot chicken thighs?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Can I freeze cooked chicken thighs?
Yes, cooked chicken thighs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
How do I make the chicken skin crispy?
For crispy skin, sear the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot first, and consider broiling them for a few minutes after cooking to achieve a crispy texture.
Conclusion
Instant pot chicken thighs are a perfect solution for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. With juicy flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the tender chicken paired with your choice of sides for a complete dining experience.
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Set the Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode and heat olive oil.
- Add chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5 minutes until golden.
- Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits.
- Return chicken to the pot, skin-side up.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to 'Manual' for 10 minutes.
- Perform a quick release of the steam once cooking is complete.
- Remove chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
