Are you tired of the same old boring weeknight meals? Look no further! The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 flavorful Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting out, these recipes are easy to make and require minimal prep work. And the best part? They’re all quick and delicious, making them perfect for busy families or individuals on-the-go.
So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 20 mouth-watering chicken thigh recipes!
Garlic Butter Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
A flavorful and tender chicken dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend dinner. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, thanks to the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking capabilities.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until browned.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and serve with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken thighs, this recipe uses the power of the Instant Pot to deliver fall-off-the-bone tender results.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the chicken thighs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 12 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes + natural pressure release
Creamy Tuscan Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this effortless recipe that combines tender chicken thighs, creamy sauce, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10-12 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
7. Open the valve and quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spicy Cajun Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on classic chicken thighs, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the pot in a single layer; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and water; make sure the chicken is covered.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 22-27 minutes
Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a perfect blend of citrusy flavor and tender chicken, all achieved with minimal effort using your trusty Instant Pot. The lemon and herbs infuse the chicken with a delightful aroma and taste.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken thighs in batches (if necessary) and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove the chicken from the pot.
3. Add the lemon juice, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s covered with the lemon mixture.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Teriyaki Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the flavors of Japan with the convenience of an Instant Pot. Tender and juicy chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the pot in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, or until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs.
4. Add water to the pot and close the lid. Set the valve to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Get ready to enjoy fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy BBQ twist, all thanks to your trusty Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the BBQ mixture over the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook for 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and brush with additional BBQ sauce (if desired).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Mushroom Gravy
Quickly cook chicken thighs and a savory mushroom gravy in your Instant Pot, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning.
3. Add chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Open lid and stir; adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek-Style Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Greece with the convenience of Instant Pot cooking. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying tender and juicy chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the garlic, oregano, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chicken thighs, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
5. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice
A classic comfort food dish made easy with the Instant Pot! This recipe yields tender, flavorful chicken thighs paired with a creamy rice pilaf.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken thighs, rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Maple Dijon Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and chicken thighs is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the chicken thighs, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and serve with juices spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
Easy Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe
Quickly cook tender chicken, potatoes, and carrots in the Instant Pot for a hearty meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend lunches.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken, potatoes, carrots, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5-7 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Coconut Curry Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the flavors of coconut milk, curry powder, and tender chicken thighs for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tbsp of butter.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of butter to the pot. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, season with salt and pepper.
6. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: Approximately 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs in White Wine Sauce
This Instant Pot recipe yields fall-apart tender chicken thighs smothered in a rich and flavorful white wine sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the pot, leaving a small gap between each piece.
3. Pour in the white wine, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Serve the chicken thighs hot, spooning some of the white wine sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Smoky Paprika Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
A flavorful and tender take on classic chicken thighs, smothered in a rich paprika sauce and cooked to perfection with the help of your trusty Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chicken broth to the pot and stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, making sure they are covered with the sauce.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Black Beans and Corn
Savor the flavors of Latin-inspired cuisine with this easy and delicious Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken thighs, black beans, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of pesto, parmesan cheese, and tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, mix pesto, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread on the side (optional).
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Lemon Garlic Sauce
This recipe yields fall-off-the-bone tender chicken thighs smothered in a vibrant lemon garlic sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Quinoa Bowl
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken thighs with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all wrapped up in a flavorful Instant Pot dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken thighs, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the quinoa and water to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe transforms tender chicken thighs into a sweet and tangy masterpiece with the help of balsamic glaze and the pressure cooker. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the balsamic glaze and add 1 cup of chicken broth.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes! From garlic butter to teriyaki, and from creamy Tuscan to spicy Cajun, there’s something for everyone. These quick and easy recipes are perfect for busy households, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic comfort food or an exotic twist, this collection has got you covered.
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