How To Cook Chicken Thighs In The Instant Pot

The Ultimate Guide to Cooking Delicious Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot

Chicken thighs are an incredibly versatile and flavorful cut of meat. They are perfect for creating a wide range of dishes, from comforting stews to crispy, golden-brown delights. If you’re a fan of using the Instant Pot for quick and convenient meals, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll show you the step-by-step process of cooking tender and juicy chicken thighs in the Instant Pot.

Why Choose Chicken Thighs?

Before we dive into the cooking steps, let’s talk about why chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for Instant Pot cooking. Here are a few reasons to consider:

• Flavor-packed: Chicken thighs have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, which means they are more flavorful and succulent.
• Tender and juicy: The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function helps break down the connective tissues in the chicken thighs, resulting in tender and moist meat.
• Versatile: From curries and soups to BBQ and stir-fries, chicken thighs can be used in various cuisines and recipes.
• Budget-friendly: Chicken thighs are often more affordable than other cuts of chicken, making them a budget-friendly option for delicious meals.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot

Now that we’ve covered the advantages of using chicken thighs let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 cup of chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs in the pot, skin side down, and sear them for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
3. Flip the chicken thighs and sear the other side for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set them aside on a plate.
5. Add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape off any browned bits from the bottom. This is important to prevent the “burn” warning.
6. Place the trivet that came with your Instant Pot inside the pot and arrange the chicken thighs on top of it.
7. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing” position.
8. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting, and adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes on high pressure.
9. Once the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot release the pressure naturally for 5 minutes, and then perform a quick release.
10. Open the lid carefully, and your perfectly cooked chicken thighs will be ready to be served, enjoyed, and savored.

These tasty and tender chicken thighs can be served as a main dish alongside roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or even in sandwiches or salads. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize the flavor to your liking.

Conclusion

With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, cooking delicious chicken thighs has never been easier. Their rich flavor, tenderness, and versatility make them a fantastic choice for various meals and occasions. So, grab your Instant Pot, follow the steps above, and get ready to enjoy mouthwatering chicken thighs that will leave you wanting more!

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun in the kitchen. So don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity and try new flavors and cooking techniques with chicken thighs and your Instant Pot.

Happy cooking!