How To Cook Frozen Chicken Thighs In Instant Pot: A Quick and Easy Guide
Are you tired of thawing chicken thighs every time you want to cook them? Look no further! We have the perfect solution for you – cooking frozen chicken thighs in an Instant Pot. With this quick and easy method, you can have deliciously tender and flavorful chicken thighs on your plate in no time.
Why Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a game-changer when it comes to cooking frozen chicken thighs. Its pressure cooking feature allows for faster cooking times and helps lock in the moisture, resulting in juicy and succulent chicken thighs. Plus, it eliminates the need for thawing, making it a convenient option for those busy weeknight dinners.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook frozen chicken thighs in an Instant Pot:
- Gather your ingredients: You will need frozen chicken thighs, your preferred seasonings, and a cup of chicken broth or water.
- Season the chicken thighs: Sprinkle your favorite seasonings over the frozen chicken thighs. Whether you prefer a simple salt and pepper seasoning or want to get creative with spices and herbs, it’s up to you.
- Preheat your Instant Pot: Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and let it heat up for a few minutes. This will help ensure even cooking.
- Add the chicken broth or water: Pour a cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot. This liquid will create steam, which is essential for proper pressure cooking.
- Place the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot: Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer inside the Instant Pot.
- Close and seal the Instant Pot: Securely place the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position.
- Cooking time: Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode and adjust the cooking time to 10 minutes. If the chicken thighs are extra large, you may need to increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
- Natural release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 5 minutes. Then, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
- Check the chicken thighs: Open the Instant Pot and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If they need a bit more cooking, you can always return them to the Instant Pot and cook for an additional few minutes.
- Serve and enjoy: Once fully cooked, transfer the chicken thighs to a serving platter and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help retain their moisture and ensure maximum tenderness.
And voila! You now have perfectly cooked frozen chicken thighs ready to be enjoyed. Serve them alongside your favorite side dishes or use them in recipes like salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Cooking frozen chicken thighs in an Instant Pot has never been easier. This convenient method saves you time and effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without the need for thawing. Give it a try and discover the wonders of cooking frozen chicken thighs in an Instant Pot!
Have questions or tips about cooking frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum and share your experiences with other home cooks.
FAQ:
Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can definitely cook frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. In fact, it’s one of the convenient features of this appliance. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function allows for cooking frozen meats without the need for thawing beforehand.
How long does it take to cook frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken thighs. On average, it takes about 12-15 minutes of cooking time under high pressure for frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot.
Do I need to add liquid when cooking frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, it’s essential to add liquid to the Instant Pot when cooking frozen chicken thighs. This is to ensure there is enough moisture to create steam and build pressure. Typically, 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid, such as broth or water, is sufficient.
Should I use the trivet when cooking frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Using the trivet is optional when cooking frozen chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. Placing the chicken directly into the liquid will help infuse it with flavor. However, if you prefer to keep the chicken elevated, you can use the trivet to prevent it from sitting directly in the liquid.
Can I season the frozen chicken thighs before cooking in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can season the frozen chicken thighs before cooking them in the Instant Pot. Seasoning the chicken will enhance its flavor. Just keep in mind that some seasonings may become more concentrated during the pressure cooking process, so adjust accordingly.
Is it possible to crisp the skin of the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Sadly, the Instant Pot does not crisp the skin of chicken thighs. However, you can achieve a crispy texture by placing the cooked chicken thighs under the broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking. This step is entirely optional and depends on personal preference.
Can I use the Instant Pot’s sauté function after pressure cooking frozen chicken thighs?
Absolutely! After pressure cooking the frozen chicken thighs, you can switch to the sauté function on the Instant Pot to brown or sear the chicken for added flavor and texture. This method can help make the chicken thighs more visually appealing as well.
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