The allure of Instant Pot chicken thighs lies in its simplicity, speed, and flavor. Cooking bone-in chicken thighs in the Instant Pot not only preserves the moisture and tenderness of the meat but also infuses it with a rich, deep flavor that slow cooking in a pressure cooker can achieve. Here’s how you can make succulent bone-in chicken thighs in your Instant Pot in just five easy steps.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- Optional: garlic, onion, herbs like rosemary or thyme
Start by selecting your ingredients. Bone-in chicken thighs are preferable for this recipe due to their rich flavor and how they respond to pressure cooking. The skin will be crisp, and the meat will be tender and juicy.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Thighs
- Turn on your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the oil.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- When the pot is hot, add the chicken thighs skin side down. Sear for about 3-4 minutes or until the skin turns golden brown. This step will help lock in the juices.
Remember, searing is crucial for flavor. Do not crowd the pot; you might have to sear the thighs in batches.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Once your chicken thighs are nicely seared, remove them from the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This step adds depth to your dish.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
- Add back the chicken thighs into the pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”.
- Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the time for 8 minutes for fresh chicken (10 minutes if frozen).
Note: Natural pressure release (NPR) after cooking is recommended for at least 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure. This allows the meat to rest and further soak up the flavors.
Step 5: Optional Steps to Finish Off
- Option 1: Broil - Transfer the chicken thighs onto a baking sheet. Broil them in your oven for 5 minutes to get crispy skin.
- Option 2: Make Gravy - If you wish to serve your chicken with a sauce, you can reduce the cooking liquid in the pot by using the sauté function to thicken it into a gravy, adding cornstarch slurry if needed.
Your bone-in chicken thighs in the Instant Pot are now ready to be served. Pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
🔥 Note: Adjust cooking times based on the size of your chicken thighs; smaller ones might need less time, while larger ones might need a couple of extra minutes.
These steps not only make cooking chicken thighs a breeze but also ensure they remain moist and flavorful. The Instant Pot brings out the best in these chicken pieces, combining the convenience of pressure cooking with the richness of traditional slow-cooked flavors.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. However, reduce the pressure cooking time to about 5 minutes since boneless meat cooks faster.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
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You can substitute chicken broth with water, or use vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
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Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure they are cooled down first to prevent bacterial growth.
