Busy weeknights can be overwhelming, but cooking a delicious meal doesn’t have to be. That’s why Instant Pot chicken thighs are a game-changer – they’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep work, you can whip up a mouth-watering dish that’ll satisfy your cravings and impress your family.
In this article, we’ll share 20 of our favorite Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired dishes, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and make mealtime a breeze. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner or a hearty meal to impress your guests, we’ve got you covered.
From creamy sauces to bold flavors and savory spices, our Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes are sure to become new favorites. So why wait? Dive into this article and discover the magic of Instant Pot cooking!
Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the convenience of the Instant Pot. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 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 and cook until browned on both sides (about 5 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger.
4. Pour the honey-garlic mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready for tender, juicy chicken thighs smothered in a rich BBQ sauce – all in under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 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 thighs, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”. Cook at high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and brush with BBQ sauce.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and creamy Instant Pot recipe, featuring tender chicken thighs smothered in a flavorful Tuscan-inspired sauce. Serve with pasta or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Pressure cook on high for 10-12 minutes.
6. Allow pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the simplicity of cooking chicken thighs with the brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 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 chicken thighs and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
3. Add the lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Thighs in Instant Pot
This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang paste with the tenderness of slow-cooked chicken thighs, all achieved in under 30 minutes using your trusty Instant Pot. The result is a sweet and spicy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until hot.
2. Add the gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Mushroom Gravy
This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken thighs and rich mushroom gravy, all made possible by the Instant Pot. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, flour, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening the lid.
7. Serve the chicken thighs with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Teriyaki Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Pineapple
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of the Instant Pot with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. With the added tropical twist of pineapple, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken thighs, teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
4. Allow pressure to release naturally (NPR) for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Remove chicken from the Instant Pot and toss with pineapple chunks.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice
This recipe yields a flavorful and tender chicken dish with perfectly cooked rice, all in just 30 minutes! It’s an ideal solution for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, chicken thighs, rice, water, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
5. 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.
Cooking Time: 22-24 minutes total (12 minutes of actual cooking + 10-minute natural release)
Garlic Parmesan Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and tender recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the savory aroma of garlic. This Instant Pot chicken thighs dish is quick, easy, and perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Stir in the shredded parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe
Summary: A hearty and comforting one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and flavorful carrots, all cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 bag of baby carrots
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot with the olive oil.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, carrots, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set 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 steam.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Note: If using fresh herbs, add them on top of the dish before serving. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cajun-Style Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Spice up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and easy Cajun-Style Instant Pot Chicken Thighs recipe. This dish is perfect for busy households, as it’s quick to prepare and cooks in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Season the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Place the chicken thighs in the Instant Pot, along with the chicken broth.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
7. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, and tender chicken thighs in this easy and indulgent Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot. Add the garlic; cook for 30 seconds.
2. Add chicken thighs; cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode 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 steam.
6. Serve hot with cooked pasta, rice, or as a standalone dish.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Inspired Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Olives and Feta
Experience the Mediterranean flavors of Greece in this hearty, comforting dish that’s quick and easy to prepare using your Instant Pot. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with savory olives, crumbly feta, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced olives, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10-12 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Coconut Curry Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of India-inspired chicken thighs cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot, smothered in a creamy coconut curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot. Add oil, then chicken thighs; brown for 5 minutes.
2. Add diced tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Open the lid; add coconut milk. Stir well.
6. Return to saute mode; simmer until sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Smoky Paprika Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Summary: Savor the flavors of smoky paprika and tender chicken thighs, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the chicken thighs to the pot, in a single layer if possible.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
7. Set the valve to “Sealing” and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
8. Allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the lid.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Black Beans and Corn
This recipe is a perfect blend of protein, fiber, and flavor, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and nutritious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken thighs, black beans, corn kernels, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. 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.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 16-17 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken thighs, this recipe combines the convenience of instant pot cooking with the rich flavor of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 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 chicken thighs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the glaze over the chicken thighs and add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Artichokes
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on classic chicken thighs, with the added benefits of spinach and artichoke hearts. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
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. Add the chopped artichoke hearts, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir in the fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Thailand with the convenience of the Instant Pot, resulting in tender and juicy chicken thighs smothered in a creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of peanut butter.
2. Add the coconut cream, soy sauce, honey, ginger, curry paste, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the pot in a single layer. Pour the peanut sauce over them.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful Instant Pot recipe. This dish combines the richness of chicken thighs with the brightness of lemon and capers, all in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt butter.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken thighs in a single layer; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Remove chicken from pot; stir in capers.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with these 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes! From classic comfort foods like Honey Garlic and BBQ to international flavors like Spicy Korean Gochujang and Thai Peanut, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy sauces or bold spices, these easy-to-make dishes will satisfy your cravings and fill your belly. Discover new favorite recipes and make mealtime a breeze with these flavorful Instant Pot chicken thigh creations!
