Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
If you’ve been on the hunt for a simple yet fulfilling dish that packs a punch in flavor, look no further than these Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs. Whether you’re catering to a busy family, prepping for a meal with friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe promises tender, juicy chicken thighs with a delightful seasoning blend. The Instant Pot makes the process quick and easy, resulting in a meal that’s nothing short of impressive. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
The Upside of Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot isn’t just a time-saver; it also locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring each bite is succulent and delicious. The versatility of chicken thighs means they can easily adapt to various cuisines and styles, making them a staple in many households. Furthermore, the spices used in this recipe complement the natural richness of the chicken, giving you a dish that’s bursting with flavor without needing hours of preparation.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika – adds depth and a hint of smokiness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – infuses the chicken with a savory aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – provides a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – adds a touch of heat and spice.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves – brings a fresh, herbal note to the dish.
- 4 chicken thighs – choose between bone-in or boneless; skin-on or skinless based on your preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for browning the chicken and adding richness.
- 1 cup water – necessary for pressure cooking and ensuring moisture.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Instant Pot – the star of the show, allowing for quick pressure cooking.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate spice measurements.
- Cutting board – provides a safe surface for handling raw chicken.
- Sharp knife – essential for prepping the chicken and herbs.
- Spatula or tongs – for flipping the chicken during browning.
Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs — Do This Next
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Once dry, season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
Step 2: Sauté for Flavor
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pot, skin-side down if using skin-on. Sear for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes. This step locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful color.
Step 3: Add Liquid
After searing, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside temporarily. Pour in 1 cup of water, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze any brown bits. This not only prevents the burn warning but also adds extra flavor to the cooking liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot, ensuring they are nestled in the liquid. Close the lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch the valve to quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. You can serve them as-is or broil them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the skin. Pair your Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
- Replace the olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point and a more neutral flavor.
- Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option.
- Pair with roasted or sautéed low-carb vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus.
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a keto-friendly seasoning option.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
- Chicken turns out dry: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Follow the timing precisely, and allow for natural pressure release.
- Burn warning appears: Always deglaze the pot after sautéing and ensure there’s enough liquid for pressure cooking.
- Uneven cooking: Make sure the chicken thighs are uniform in size for even cooking; you can butterfly thicker thighs if necessary.
- Flavorless chicken: Don’t skimp on seasoning; make sure to coat the chicken well before cooking.
Best Ways to Store
Leftover Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Handy Q&A
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be aware that they will cook faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. The Instant Pot will take longer to come to pressure, but the cooking time remains the same.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will work just fine. For an added smoky flavor, you might consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or a little extra garlic powder.
Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes! You can cook frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. Increase the cooking time to 12-14 minutes and ensure you still allow for natural release.
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Ready to Cook?
With this Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs recipe, you’re well on your way to creating a savory, satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The combination of spices and the ease of cooking in the Instant Pot make this dish a winner. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s make dinner a delightful experience! Enjoy every bite!
Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Once dry, season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pot, skin-side down if using skin-on. Sear for about 5 minutes until they are golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
- After searing, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside temporarily. Pour in 1 cup of water, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze any brown bits.
- Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot, ensuring they are nestled in the liquid. Close the lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch the valve to quick release.
- Carefully remove the chicken thighs from the pot. Serve them as-is or broil them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
Notes
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Ensure you deglaze the pot after sautéing to prevent the burn warning.
