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December 10, 2024
Chicken thighs are a versatile and delicious protein addition to any meal. Whether you prefer them grilled, baked, or fried, cooking chicken thighs in an instant pot can save you time and effort in the kitchen. Instant pots are known for their convenience and ability to cook food quickly, and chicken thighs are no exception.
When cooking chicken thighs in an instant pot, it is important to ensure they are fully cooked to a safe internal temperature. The recommended cooking time for chicken thighs in an instant pot is approximately 10-15 minutes on high pressure. However, the exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the thighs and the desired level of doneness.
Before cooking the chicken thighs, you can season them with your preferred spices and herbs to enhance the flavor. Additionally, adding a liquid such as chicken broth or water to the instant pot will help create a flavorful and moist cooking environment.
Once the cooking time is up, it is important to allow the instant pot to naturally release the pressure for at least 5-10 minutes before opening the lid. This will help ensure that the chicken thighs are fully cooked and tender. Finally, you can serve the cooked chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes or use them as a tasty protein in various recipes.
How to Cook Chicken Thighs in an Instant Pot
Cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot can be a quick and easy way to enjoy a tasty and moist chicken dish. The Instant Pot, with its pressure cooking function, helps to lock in flavors and cook the chicken thighs to perfection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook chicken thighs in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
Instructions:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and add the olive oil.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs in the pot, skin side down, and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and set aside.
- Add the chicken broth or stock to the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Place the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin side up.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to the sealing position.
- Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 12 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer. It should register at least 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the chicken thighs to a serving plate and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Now you can enjoy tender and flavorful chicken thighs cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot. Serve them with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Preparing Chicken Thighs
Before cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, it is important to properly prepare them. Follow these simple steps to ensure your chicken thighs are ready to be cooked:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the chicken thighs from their packaging and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps to remove any excess moisture from the chicken, which can prevent it from browning properly. |
| 2 | Season the chicken thighs with your desired spices and herbs. This adds flavor to the chicken and enhances its taste. You can use a pre-made seasoning blend or create your own mixture using salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and other spices. |
| 3 | Optional step: Marinate the chicken thighs. If you have time, you can let the chicken thighs marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with more flavor. |
| 4 | Preheat the Instant Pot by selecting the “Saute” function and setting it to medium heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil, to the pot. |
| 5 | Once the Instant Pot is hot, add the chicken thighs to the pot. Cook them for a few minutes on each side until they are browned. This step helps to develop a nice caramelized crust on the chicken. |
Now that your chicken thighs are properly prepared, you can proceed to cook them in the Instant Pot using your preferred recipe.
Seasoning the Chicken Thighs
Before cooking the chicken thighs in the instant pot, it’s crucial to season them properly to enhance their flavor. Here is a simple and delicious seasoning option:
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon olive oil | 1. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the selected seasonings. |
| 2 teaspoons garlic powder | 2. Combine the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and any additional spices you prefer in the same bowl with the olive oil. |
| 1 teaspoon salt | 3. Once the seasoning mixture is well combined, rub it all over the chicken thighs, making sure to cover each piece evenly. |
| 1/2 teaspoon black pepper | 4. Allow the seasoned chicken thighs to sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. |
| Additional spices (optional) | 5. After seasoning, proceed to cook the chicken thighs in the instant pot according to your preferred recipe. |
By seasoning the chicken thighs properly, you’ll create a delicious base flavor that will complement any recipe you choose to cook in the instant pot.
Setting up the Instant Pot
Before you can start cooking your chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, you need to make sure it is set up properly. Follow these steps to correctly set up your Instant Pot:
- Place the inner pot into the Instant Pot base.
- Ensure the sealing ring is properly inserted into the lid.
- Attach the lid to the Instant Pot and ensure it is securely in place.
- Make sure the steam release handle is in the sealing position.
- Connect the power cord to your Instant Pot and plug it into an electrical outlet.
- You are now ready to start cooking!
Cooking the Chicken Thighs
Once you have seasoned your chicken thighs to your liking, it’s time to cook them in the Instant Pot. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Preparing the Instant Pot
Before you start cooking the chicken thighs, ensure that the Instant Pot is clean and in good working condition. Place the inner pot inside the Instant Pot and make sure it is properly secured.
Step 2: Browning the Chicken Thighs
Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add a small amount of oil to the inner pot. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the pot. Sear the thighs for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Adding Liquid
Once the chicken thighs are browned, remove them from the Instant Pot and set them aside. It’s time to add liquid to the pot to create the necessary steam and pressure. You can use chicken broth, water, or any other cooking liquid of your choice. Pour enough liquid into the pot to cover the bottom and create a thin layer.
Step 4: Pressure Cooking
Place the browned chicken thighs back into the Instant Pot, arranging them in a single layer if possible. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode. Adjust the cooking time to approximately 10-12 minutes for boneless chicken thighs, or 12-15 minutes for bone-in thighs.
Step 5: Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time has elapsed, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the chicken thighs to remain juicy and tender. After the natural pressure release, you can perform a quick release by carefully turning the venting knob to “Venting” position.
Step 6: Checking the Internal Temperature
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs. They should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. If the thighs have not reached the desired temperature, you can put them back in the Instant Pot for a few more minutes of pressure cooking.
Step 7: Serving the Chicken Thighs
Once the chicken thighs are cooked and have reached the proper temperature, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them whole or shred the meat for various dishes like tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
Follow these steps to cook delicious and juicy chicken thighs in the Instant Pot every time!
Releasing Pressure and Checking for Doneness
Once the cooking time is complete, it’s important to release the pressure before opening the Instant Pot. This can be done in two ways:
Natural Pressure Release
In this method, you allow the Instant Pot to release the pressure naturally. After the cooking time is up, do not immediately open the valve. Instead, wait for the pressure to naturally decrease, which can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes depending on the recipe and the amount of food in the pot. You’ll know that the pressure has been fully released when the float valve drops down. Once the float valve drops, it is safe to open the Instant Pot.
Quick Pressure Release
If you’re short on time and can’t wait for the pressure to naturally release, you can use the quick pressure release method. Carefully turn the steam release valve from the sealing to the venting position using a long spoon or a pair of tongs. Be cautious as the steam being released is very hot, so make sure to keep your hands and face clear of the steam. The pressure will release quickly, usually within a few minutes. Once the float valve drops, it is safe to open the Instant Pot.
After releasing the pressure, it’s important to check if the chicken thighs are fully cooked. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. If the chicken is not fully cooked, you can return it to the Instant Pot and cook for a few more minutes using the sauté function or by pressure cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked, you can serve them immediately or let them cool before storing or using in other recipes.
Questions and answers
How long should I cook chicken thighs in my Instant Pot?
The recommended cooking time for chicken thighs in an Instant Pot is 10 minutes on high pressure. However, make sure to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I cook frozen chicken thighs in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken thighs in an Instant Pot. It is recommended to add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time when using frozen chicken.
What seasonings can I use for cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot?
You can use a variety of seasonings for cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or a simple salt and pepper seasoning.
Do I need to brown the chicken thighs before cooking them in the Instant Pot?
While browning the chicken thighs before cooking them in the Instant Pot can add extra flavour, it is not necessary. You can simply season the thighs and place them directly in the pot.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. The cooking time for boneless thighs is usually the same as bone-in thighs.
How long should I cook chicken thighs in the instant pot?
The cooking time for chicken thighs in the instant pot is typically around 10-12 minutes on high pressure.