Instant Pot Chicken Thighs (Fresh or Frozen)

This Instant Pot chicken thighs recipe is a quick and easy method for cooking juicy chicken using fresh or frozen thighs. Made with simple ingredients like oil, chicken broth, and seasonings, it works for bone-in or boneless chicken. Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, and family-friendly meals, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken in minutes, perfect to serve with vegetables, rice, or potatoes.

Ingredients

• 900 g – 1,3 kg (2–3 lbs) chicken thighs*, skin on, fresh or frozen
• 2 tablespoons oil (canola or vegetable)
• 1 cup liquid (water, chicken broth, apple juice, or pineapple juice)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

*Bone-in or boneless, adjust cooking time accordingly.

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Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional for Frozen Thighs)

1. Set the Instant Pot to the Sauté function and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Deglaze the Pot
5. Add 1 cup of liquid to the Instant Pot, scraping the bottom to remove any browned bits from searing.

3. Pressure Cook
6. Place the trivet inside the pot and arrange the chicken on top.
7. Close the lid and set the valve to Sealed.

• Boneless thighs: Fresh – 8 minutes, Frozen – 12 minutes
• Bone-in thighs: Fresh – 10 minutes, Frozen – 15 minutes

8. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to Venting to release any remaining steam.
9. Check internal temperature; chicken should reach 74°C (165°F). If not fully cooked, reseal and cook 1–3 more minutes on high pressure.

4. Rest and Serve
10. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

5. Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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Tips

• Searing adds flavor and color but can be skipped for frozen chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
• Keep the chicken juicy by allowing a natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or boneless chicken breasts (adjust cooking time).
• Add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning for more flavor.
• Use coconut water or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a different taste.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen chicken directly?
Yes, increase the cooking time as indicated (boneless – 12 min, bone-in – 15 min).

Is it safe to pressure cook chicken with skin on?
Yes, skin helps retain moisture. Remove before serving if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
• Pair with a simple salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot chicken thighs recipe is quick, reliable, and yields juicy, tender meat every time. It works with both fresh and frozen chicken, making it a practical solution for busy weeknights and meal prep.