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October 27, 2024
Chicken thighs are a tasty and versatile protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular method is using an Instant Pot, a convenient and fast cooking appliance that can help you get dinner on the table in no time. But how long should you cook chicken thighs in an Instant Pot to ensure they are tender and juicy?
The cooking time for chicken thighs in an Instant Pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the thighs, as well as personal preference for doneness. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook bone-in chicken thighs for around 10-12 minutes at high pressure, and boneless chicken thighs for around 8-10 minutes. This ensures that the thighs are fully cooked and reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer a more tender and fall-off-the-bone texture, you can increase the cooking time by a few minutes. On the other hand, if you prefer a crispier skin, you can finish the chicken thighs under the broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking. Just be sure to monitor them closely to prevent burning.
It’s important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly based on factors such as the altitude at which you are cooking, the specific model of your Instant Pot, and the size and thickness of your chicken thighs. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken thighs have reached a safe internal temperature before serving.
Pro tip: To add flavor to your chicken thighs, you can season them with your favorite herbs and spices before cooking. You can also experiment with using different liquids, such as chicken broth or marinade, to infuse even more flavor into the meat.
In conclusion, cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to enjoy tender and juicy chicken. By following the suggested cooking times and using a meat thermometer, you can ensure that your chicken thighs are perfectly cooked every time.
How to Cook Chicken Thighs in an Instant Pot
Cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot is quick and convenient, resulting in moist and flavorful meat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook chicken thighs in an Instant Pot:
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Select the “Saute” function on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
- Place the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, skin side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned.
- Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set aside.
- Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and scrape any browned bits from the bottom.
- Place a trivet or steamer basket into the Instant Pot and arrange the chicken thighs on top.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to the “Sealing” position.
- Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting, and set the cooking time to 8-10 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
With just a few simple steps, you can have tender and delicious chicken thighs ready in no time using your Instant Pot. Enjoy!
Perfectly Tender Chicken Thighs Every Time
When it comes to cooking chicken thighs in an Instant Pot, achieving the perfect level of tenderness can sometimes be a challenge. However, with the right technique and cooking time, you can ensure that your chicken thighs turn out tender and juicy every single time.
Choose the Right Cooking Time
The cooking time for chicken thighs in an Instant Pot can vary depending on their size and whether they are boneless or bone-in. As a general guideline, boneless chicken thighs usually take around 10-12 minutes to cook, while bone-in thighs may require an additional 2-3 minutes.
Prepare the Chicken Thighs
Before cooking, it is important to prepare the chicken thighs properly. Start by seasoning them with your desired spices and seasonings. This can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other herbs and spices that you prefer. For added flavor, you can also marinate the chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight.
Next, you will want to sear the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot to seal in the juices and enhance the flavor. Simply select the sauté function on your Instant Pot and heat a small amount of oil. Place the chicken thighs in the pot and brown them on both sides for a couple of minutes.
Once the chicken thighs are seared, you can remove them from the Instant Pot and set them aside. This step is optional but can help to achieve a more flavorful result.
Cooking the Chicken Thighs
After searing the chicken thighs, you can now add the desired liquid to the Instant Pot. This can include chicken broth, water, or any other type of cooking liquid that you prefer. You will want to add enough liquid to cover the bottom of the pot, but not so much that it covers the chicken thighs completely.
Once the liquid is added, you can return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and make sure the pressure valve is set to the “sealing” position. Select the manual or pressure cook function on your Instant Pot and set the cooking time according to the guidelines mentioned earlier.
After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for a few minutes before opening the lid. This will help to keep the chicken thighs moist and tender. You can then transfer the chicken thighs to a serving dish and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
By following these steps and cooking times, you can enjoy perfectly tender chicken thighs straight out of your Instant Pot every time. Whether you plan to enjoy them as a main dish, use them in recipes, or freeze them for future use, you can be confident that your chicken thighs will be flavorful and tender.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Thighs
Before cooking the chicken thighs in an instant pot, it’s important to properly prepare them. Follow these steps to ensure your chicken thighs are ready for cooking:
Gather Ingredients:
– Chicken thighs
– Salt
– Pepper
– Any other desired seasonings
Trim the Chicken Thighs:
Start by trimming any excess fat or skin from the chicken thighs. This will help prevent the chicken from becoming too greasy during cooking.
Season the Chicken Thighs:
Next, generously season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. This will help enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Let the Chicken Thighs Rest:
Allow the seasoned chicken thighs to rest at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.
By following these steps, you will have properly prepared chicken thighs ready to be cooked in an instant pot.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken Thighs
After cleaning the chicken thighs, it’s time to season them for maximum flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture.
- In a small bowl, mix together your desired seasonings. This can include simple salt and pepper, or you can get creative and use herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat to ensure it coats evenly.
- For an extra kick of flavor, you can also marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and your favorite seasonings. Simply place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag with the marinade and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Once the chicken thighs are seasoned to your liking, they are ready to be cooked in the Instant Pot. Move on to the next step to learn how to properly cook the chicken thighs using this versatile kitchen appliance.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken Thighs in an Instant Pot
Once your chicken thighs have been marinated and you’ve preheated your Instant Pot, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these steps to cook the chicken thighs perfectly:
- Start by adding a splash of oil to the Instant Pot and setting it to “Sauté” mode.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pot. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your Instant Pot.
- Sear the chicken thighs for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Next, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
- Add the chicken broth or cooking liquid of your choice to the Instant Pot.
- Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot, placing them on top of the liquid.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and make sure the vent is sealed.
- Select the “Pressure Cook” setting and set the timer for the appropriate cooking time. Generally, bone-in chicken thighs will need about 10-12 minutes, while boneless thighs will be ready in 8-10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 5-10 minutes, then use the quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid and check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to make sure they have reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a serving platter or individual plates.
- Let the chicken thighs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Now your chicken thighs are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as a main dish with your favourite sides, or use them in recipes like salads, wraps, or casseroles.
Q&A
What is an Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, yogurt maker, and more. It is known for its convenience and ability to quickly cook a variety of meals.
Can I cook chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. They cook relatively quickly and can be very tender and juicy when cooked in the pressure cooker.
How long should I cook chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time for chicken thighs in the Instant Pot can vary depending on the size and thickness of the thighs. Generally, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be cooked on high pressure for about 10-12 minutes, while bone-in chicken thighs may need 12-15 minutes of cooking time.
Do I need to add liquid when cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, it is recommended to add at least 1/2 cup of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, when cooking chicken thighs in the Instant Pot. The liquid helps create steam and build pressure to cook the chicken thighs.