Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Use this easy recipe to make Bone-In Chicken Thighs or Boneless Chicken Thighs. The chicken comes out so juicy with the best flavor. With the extra liquid make a delicious gravy to serve over top for a complete main dish recipe.

The instant pot has been a game changer for my family. You can easily cook frozen chicken for a quick and easy meal. If you love this chicken thigh recipe, try Instant Pot Chicken Breast Cacciatore, Instant Pot Chicken and Rice and 45 Instant pot Chicken Recipes.

Why We Love Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

These chicken thighs turn out so flavorful and juicy for an easy instant pot recipe. The combination of the spices makes every bite is bursting with flavor. Making chicken thighs take minimal prep time, taste amazing and cooks quick and easy.

If you like to meal prep, make these tender and juicy chicken thighs. Use the chicken to make Chicken Tacos, Chicken Quesadilla Recipe, serve on top of salads and Oven Nachos.

Ingredients

• Bone-in Skin-on Chicken Thighs – We like to cook chicken thighs that are about the same size so they cook evenly. You can also make boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Dried Oregano – You can also use ½ tsp of fresh oregano. Fresh thyme is also a great addition. Any type fresh herbs can be used for even more flavor
• Paprika – If you are out see, Best Paprika Substitute
• Garlic Powder – See The Best Garlic Powder Substitute if you are out. You can also use minced garlic
• Kosher Salt – You can also use regular salt or pink salt
• Butter – Feel free to substitute with Olive Oil
• Chicken Broth – See Chicken broth substitutes if you are out
• Cornstarch Slurry – To thicken the gravy mix cornstarch and cold water together.

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe in the recipe card.

How to Make Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot

Step 1 – In a small bowl, stir together the oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.

Step 2 – Rub this seasoning mixture on both sides of the bone-in thighs. 

Step 3 – Turn the instant pot on the sauté setting.  Add the butter and cook until the butter is melted. 

Step 4 – Place the chicken thighs into the bottom of the Instant Pot, skin side down) and sear for 4-5 minutes per side until they are browned. 

Step 5 – Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot to a separate plate. 

Step 6 – Turn the instant pot valve off and scrape off any brown bits from the bottom of the instant pot.  Pour the chicken broth into the instant pot and add the chicken thighs back to the instant pot. 

• Step 7 – Seal and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.  After the pressure cook time, allow the pressure to release from the Instant pot naturally for 10 minutes and then move the knob on the lid to the venting position to release the remaining pressure from the Instant Pot.  
• Step 8 – Remove the chicken from the instant pot.  Turn the instant pot to the sauté setting.  
• Step 9 – In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until the cornstarch is dissolved.  Stir this mixture into the instant pot and cook for 3-5 minutes, whisking continually, until the sauce thickens.  
• Step 10 – Serve the chicken with the gravy poured on top and enjoy! 

Recipe Tips

• Boneless Chicken Thighs – You can make this recipe with boneless chicken thighs if you prefer.  If using boneless thighs, cook on high pressure for 8 minutes with a 5 minute natural release after the cook time.  
• Searing Chicken – If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the browning of the chicken thighs.  Season the chicken thighs and add 3 minutes to the cook time if you do not brown. However, I recommend browning as it adds a lot of flavor to the chicken. 
• Cooking Time – Use an instant read meat thermometer to make sure that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. If this temperature is not reached, continue to cook in 5 minute increments until this internal temperature is reached. 
• Trivet – When cooking the chicken thighs, we did not add the trivet. But if you prefer and have the one that the instant pot came with you can add it to your instant pot.

What to Serve with Chicken Thighs?

Cooking chicken thighs in the instant pot makes a delicious meal idea. You can serve with many side dish recipes to complete a meal. These are some of our favorite side dishes.

• Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes
• Roasted Cauliflower
• Peas
• Sautéed Green Beans
• 30 Minute Dinner Rolls
• Teriyaki Vegetables
• Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
• The Best Sautéed Mushrooms Recipe

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storing – Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing – Once the chicken thighs has cooled to room temperature, place in a freezer safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating – Reheat the leftovers in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through. You can also place on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and reheating in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes or heated through.