In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon dried thyme leaves (not ground thyme). Stir until well combined.

Trim any excess fat or gristle from the 4 chicken thighs if needed, then pat the thighs dry with paper towels.

Sprinkle the spice rub evenly over the chicken thighs, rubbing the blend into the meat so both sides are seasoned.

(Optional) To sear: turn the Instant Pot to Sauté and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat until the oil is shimmering. Working in a single layer (you may need to sear in batches to avoid overcrowding), place the thighs skin-side down if they have skin. Sear 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Transfer seared thighs to a clean plate and turn the Sauté function OFF. Skip this step if your thighs are frozen or if you choose not to sear.

Pour 1½ cups water into the inner pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Place the trivet in the inner pot. Arrange the chicken thighs on the trivet (they may overlap).

Secure the lid and set the steam release valve to Sealing. Select High Pressure and set the cooking time according to the type and whether you seared the thighs: - Bone-in thighs: 8 minutes if seared, 10 minutes if not seared. - Boneless thighs: 6 minutes if seared, 8 minutes if not seared. - Frozen thighs: 15 minutes for bone-in, 10 minutes for boneless.

When the cook time ends, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully move the steam release valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure. Wait until the float valve drops, then open the lid.

Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer at the thickest part of the largest thigh (avoid touching bone). The chicken must reach 165°F. If it is below 165°F, reseal and pressure cook for 1–2 more minutes, then repeat a short natural release and recheck.

Remove the chicken from the pot and serve as desired.