Cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot has quickly become a favorite method for many home cooks due to its speed, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re making dinner on a busy weeknight or prepping meals in advance, Instant Pot chicken thighs offer a juicy, tender result every time. This versatile method allows you to use either bone-in or boneless thighs, skin-on or skinless, and adapt seasonings to match nearly any cuisine. With minimal effort, you can create a protein-packed meal that pairs well with vegetables, rice, or even pasta. If you’re new to pressure cooking or simply want a reliable recipe for delicious chicken, the Instant Pot is your best ally.
Why Use the Instant Pot for Chicken Thighs
Speed and Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of using an Instant Pot is how quickly it cooks meat. Chicken thighs, which usually require longer cooking times to become tender when baked or braised, can be ready in under 30 minutes with this appliance. The pressure cooking function locks in moisture and flavor, making each bite juicy and well-seasoned.
One-Pot Simplicity
The Instant Pot is perfect for minimizing kitchen cleanup. You can sauté, pressure cook, and even keep your food warm all in the same pot. This is especially helpful when searing the chicken thighs first to develop flavor and then cooking them under pressure.
Consistent Results
Unlike stove-top methods that require careful monitoring, the Instant Pot is consistent and hands-off. Once the cooking time is set, you can step away without worrying about burning or undercooking.
Best Type of Chicken Thighs to Use
Bone-In vs. Boneless
Both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs work well in the Instant Pot. Bone-in thighs offer slightly more flavor, especially if the skin is left on. However, boneless thighs cook a bit faster and are easier to shred or slice after cooking. The choice depends on your preferences and how you plan to serve the dish.
Skin-On vs. Skinless
Skin-on thighs will give you a richer taste and a bit more fat, which helps keep the meat moist. If you want a leaner meal or are planning to shred the meat for tacos or sandwiches, skinless is a great option. You can also remove the skin after cooking if desired.
Basic Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Here’s a simple list of common ingredients you can use to cook Instant Pot chicken thighs:
- 46 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Optional: chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, or BBQ sauce
These ingredients can be easily adjusted to match your favorite flavor profiles, such as Italian, Cajun, or Asian-style seasonings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better during sautéing. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and your herb of choice. You can marinate the chicken in advance if you want deeper flavor.
2. Sauté for Flavor (Optional)
Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down (if using skin-on) and sear for 23 minutes per side. This step is optional but adds extra flavor through caramelization.
3. Deglaze the Pot
After searing, remove the chicken and add a splash of broth to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This prevents the burn warning and incorporates delicious flavor into the cooking liquid.
4. Pressure Cook
Place a trivet or steamer rack in the pot (optional) and return the chicken thighs. Add the remaining broth. Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure:
- Boneless thighs: 8 minutes
- Bone-in thighs: 1012 minutes
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before performing a quick release to let out remaining steam.
5. Check for Doneness
Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If not, you can cook for an additional 12 minutes on high pressure. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
6. Optional: Finish with a Broil
If you want crispy skin, place the cooked thighs on a baking sheet and broil for 35 minutes in the oven. This step adds a nice texture contrast to the tender meat.
Flavor Variations and Recipe Ideas
Garlic Lemon Chicken Thighs
Add fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a few lemon slices before pressure cooking. Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a bright, fresh meal.
BBQ Chicken Thighs
Season the chicken with a smoky spice blend and add BBQ sauce to the broth. After cooking, brush with extra BBQ sauce and broil until slightly caramelized.
Honey Soy Chicken Thighs
Combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in the pot before cooking. Serve over steamed rice with green onions for an Asian-inspired dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Instant Pot chicken thighs pair well with a wide range of side dishes. Here are some easy and popular choices:
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Roasted or sautéed vegetables
- Salads with light vinaigrettes
- Pasta with light cream or tomato sauces
The juicy texture of the chicken works beautifully with starchy, creamy, or fresh sides.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
- Always deglaze the pot after sautéing to avoid the burn notice.
- Natural pressure release keeps the meat more tender and juicy.
- Use broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Shred leftover thighs and use them in tacos, wraps, or salads.
A Fast and Flavorful Chicken Option
Instant Pot chicken thighs are an incredibly versatile and reliable dish for any home cook. They require minimal prep and deliver maximum flavor in a short amount of time. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a comforting dinner, chicken thighs cooked in the Instant Pot are a go-to choice. With endless seasoning possibilities and side dish combinations, you’ll never get bored with this simple yet delicious recipe. It’s the kind of meal that’s both practical and satisfying ideal for busy lives and hungry appetites.