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Instant Pot Chicken Thighs Recipe

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4.4 from 14 reviews

This Instant Pot Chicken Thighs recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender, juicy chicken using the pressure cooking method. Whether using fresh or frozen thighs, this versatile recipe ensures perfectly cooked meat with minimal effort, enhanced by a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and your choice of liquid for cooking.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2-3 lbs chicken thighs, skin on, fresh or frozen

Seasoning & Cooking

  • 2 Tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup liquid (water, chicken broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice)

Instructions

  1. Sear: (Skip this step if using frozen thighs.) Set the Instant Pot to sauté setting and add the oil. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the skin is crispy and browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
  2. Add Liquid: Pour 1 cup of your chosen liquid (water, chicken broth, pineapple juice, or apple juice) into the bottom of the Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the searing process to enhance flavor.
  3. Pressure Cook: Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the chicken thighs on top. Secure the lid and ensure the steam release valve is set to “sealed”. For boneless thighs, pressure cook on manual high for 8 minutes if fresh or 12 minutes if frozen. For bone-in thighs, cook for 10 minutes fresh or 15 minutes frozen.
  4. Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to “venting” to release remaining steam. Check the chicken temperature with a thermometer—it should reach 165°F. If it is slightly undercooked, replace the lid and let rest for 5 minutes. If still underdone, cook under high pressure for an additional 1-3 minutes.
  5. Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and ensure tenderness.
  6. Storage: Store any leftover cooked chicken in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Skip searing if you are using frozen chicken thighs.
  • Choose your cooking liquid based on desired flavor: chicken broth adds savoriness, while apple or pineapple juice imparts a subtle sweetness.
  • Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Use the natural pressure release method for juicier, more tender chicken.
  • Adjust cooking time based on the size and thickness of the thighs for best results.

Find it online: https://glowcooks.com/instant-pot-chicken-thighs-recipe/