How to Prepare Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot

Fresh vs. Frozen Chicken Thighs: Instant Pot Tips

One of the major benefits of using the Instant Pot is that you can cook chicken thighs directly from frozen—no need to thaw. If you're cooking frozen thighs, increase the cooking time to about 14 minutes (compared to 10-12 minutes for fresh chicken thighs). See the table below for specific cooking durations.

Bone-In vs. Boneless Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot

Both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs cook beautifully in the Instant Pot. The key difference lies in the cooking time. Bone-in thighs need an extra two minutes of pressure cooking compared to boneless, totaling 12 minutes. Check the chart below for precise cooking times.

Skinless vs. Skin-On Chicken Thighs in the Instant Pot

For skin-on chicken thighs, start by browning the skin side using the Instant Pot’s "saute" function. Season the skin, add a little oil to the pot, and once it reads "hot," place the chicken skin-side down. Brown for up to three minutes, flip, and brown for another minute. Then, you’re all set to pressure cook!

If you’re cooking skinless chicken thighs, you can skip the browning step. Not browning skin-on chicken thighs results in limp, soggy skin, which is usually best removed before serving.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

What You'll Need:

• 6-8 chicken thighs (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-4 cups water (depending on whether you want broth or not)
• Optional: minced garlic, paprika, oregano, onion, etc.

Instant Pot Chicken Thigh Cooking Times

• 6-8 Fresh, Bone-In Chicken Thighs (Skin-On or Skinless): 12 minutes on high pressure
• 6-8 Fresh, Boneless Chicken Thighs (Skin-On or Skinless): 10 minutes on high pressure
• 6-8 Frozen Chicken Thighs, Any Kind: 14 minutes on high pressure

Step-by-Step Instructions:

How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs

Let any remaining chicken cool before storing it in an airtight container or securely wrapping it in plastic or foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Creative Ways to Use Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, get creative with a variety of Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes. Try a flavorful twist with this Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe, or explore other options like barbeque or bacon-ranch flavors. For something simple yet tasty, try this Instant Pot Pepper Chicken recipe. And if you’re aiming to impress, chicken cacciatore becomes a breeze in the Instant Pot. Don’t forget to check out our top Instant Pot chicken recipes for more ideas.