Are you tired of cooking the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! The Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy home cooks, and when combined with juicy chicken thighs, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll be exploring 19 mouth-watering flavor combinations that will elevate your meal prep game.
From sweet and savory to spicy and smoky, these recipes have got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like honey garlic or teriyaki, or want to spice things up with some cajun flair, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste. So grab your Instant Pot and let’s get started on this culinary adventure!
Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
A sweet and savory twist on classic chicken thighs, this recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs, honey, soy sauce, and thyme. 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, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Remove the chicken from the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Teriyaki Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken thighs with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, all cooked to perfection in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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 honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken thighs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken thighs.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Brighten up your mealtime with this citrusy and flavorful recipe that’s ready in no time! This easy and delicious dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon 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, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is browned.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
BBQ Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Transform your chicken thighs into tender, juicy, and smoky BBQ delights with this Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 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 in a single layer, leaving some space between each thigh.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. When the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and stir in the BBQ sauce.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 18 minutes (includes natural release time)
Cajun Spiced Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the convenience of instant cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 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 until shimmering.
2. Add the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the pot in a single layer. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until they are browned on both sides.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10-12 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a flavorful and effortless way to cook chicken thighs with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken thighs and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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 pot and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Mushroom Sauce
A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a rich mushroom sauce, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 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 the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chicken thighs, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the lid.
Serve: Remove the chicken from the pot and serve with the rich mushroom sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy!
Thai Coconut Curry Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe. Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add curry paste; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken thighs; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook on “High” for 8 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 18 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice
This comforting dish is a staple of home cooking, with tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection and served over flavorful rice. With minimal prep time and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 chicken thighs and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, garlic, salt, and pepper to 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 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots
A comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is a great way to get your family to eat their veggies in a delicious and creamy Instant Pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots, garlic, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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 steam.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Spicy Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chicken thighs, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot with the added sweetness of bell peppers. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, bell peppers, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken thighs to the pot, season with salt and pepper, then pour in chicken broth.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Creamy Dijon Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple and flavorful Instant Pot recipe. Juicy chicken thighs are cooked to perfection in a rich, creamy sauce infused with the tanginess of Dijon mustard.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and melt butter. Add garlic; cook until fragrant.
2. Add chicken thighs; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid; set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10-12 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Quinoa and Spinach
Prepare a nutritious and flavorful meal with this easy Instant Pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned.
4. Add the quinoa, water or broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” mode and cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Quick-release the pressure and open the lid.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Capers
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the rich flavor of chicken thighs, the brightness of lemon, and the savory tang of capers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 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. Add the lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and capers. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Sweet Chili Glaze
Elevate your chicken game with this sticky and savory recipe that’s ready in under an hour! This sweet chili glaze is the perfect combination of tangy, spicy, and sweet.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 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, skin side down, in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the glaze.
4. Pour the glaze over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 20 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Remove the chicken from the pot and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on your Instant Pot model)
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Black Beans and Corn
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken thighs, creamy black beans, and sweet corn come together in harmony to create a delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken thighs, black beans, corn kernels, and chicken broth to the pot.
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 before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes total
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Zucchini and Tomatoes
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional chicken thighs, packed with the freshness of zucchini and tomatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 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. Add the sliced zucchini and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Honey Mustard Sauce
Transform your chicken thighs into fall-off-the-bone tender, juicy delights with the added bonus of a rich and tangy honey mustard sauce. This Instant Pot recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken thighs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Cook on “HIGH PRESSURE” for 10 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
7. Open the lid and check that the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Herbed Butter
This recipe elevates classic chicken thighs to new heights by infusing them with aromatic herbs and rich butter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Herbed Butter are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter. Add the garlic, parsley, and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the pot in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 19 delicious and easy-to-make Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes! From classic flavors like honey garlic and BBQ, to international-inspired dishes like Thai coconut curry and Cajun spiced, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing chicken thighs with creamy sauces, herbed butters, or savory gravies for a truly satisfying meal. With the Instant Pot’s convenience and speed, you can cook up a flavorful feast in no time. Check out these mouth-watering recipes to get started!
