Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs Made Easy

Alright, fam, buckle up because I’m about to share this gem that’s been saving our weeknight dinners for as long as I can remember. This Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs recipe isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s the holy grail of “I forgot to defrost the chicken” nights. We’re talking juicy, flavorful, lick-your-fingers chicken that’s super easy but doesn’t taste lazy. Pour yourself a glass of whatever and give this one a whirl.
Listen, whenever I whip this up, my husband suddenly finds his way to the kitchen like he’s summoned by some magical chicken aroma. And my kiddos clang their forks on the table because they know it’s about to go down! This recipe’s been passed around at family potlucks — and every time someone asks for it, I know I’ve hit a home run.
MORE OF OUR FAVORITE…
Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs Made Easy
– It’s faster than you can say “Takeout,” and trust me, I’m all about saving time these days.
– You can use it to bribe family to do chores. Just saying.
– It’s basically foolproof, which is ideal because I’m very forgetful (and ladders are hard).
How to Make It
Alright, picture this: you’ve got your big ol’ Instant Pot out, the kitchen’s a mess (or is that just mine?), and you’re ready to magic some chicken. Just throw in those bone-in thighs. Cuz let’s face it, boneless isn’t as fun. Add your flavors – I’m talking soy sauce, maybe a splish-splash of sesame oil, some ginger if you’re feeling fancy – but it’s your show, go wild! Set that Instant Pot and let the magic happen while you shuffle piles of mail. Once that lovely chime goes off, do a quick release (like when you move seats on a rollercoaster), pop that baby open, and boom! Dinner’s ready.
Ingredient Notes
– Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, because that’s where the magic is. It’s okay if you’ve only got boneless.
– Soy Sauce: It’s the soul of this thing. Low sodium if you’re feeling healthy-ish, but hey, live your best life!
– Sesame Oil: Adds that toasted dreaminess… skip it if you’re out; I have.
Recipe Steps
1. Grab your Instant Pot and place those trusty chicken thighs inside.
2. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other flavor companions you fancy—get creative!
3. Set to pressure cook and let it get to work while you catch up on life.
4. Once done, release the pressure carefully—don’t forget your towel trick.
5. Pop open the lid and dig into that tender, juicy goodness.
What to Serve It With
Tips & Mistakes
– Don’t forget to add liquid unless you love chicken jerky.
– Make sure the lid is sealed, or it’s going to be a long wait…
Storage Tips
Throw leftovers in a Tupperware, and in the fridge it goes — hello, lunch tomorrow! If you eat it cold standing by the open fridge, that’s between you and your hunger. My secret: it’s bomb for breakfast too. Who knew?
Variations and Substitutions
Listen, honey can swap for sugar when you’re out. Canned pineapple if you’re desperate, but pro tip: drain it like the drama that unfolds in my kitchen. And let’s not talk about the time I forgot garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions
There you have it, folks, my go-to Instant Pot pal in all its chaotic glory. Get those chicken thighs a-cookin’, and may your dinner table be chaos-free — or hilarious, because that’s real life, right?

Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs Made Easy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper freshly ground
- 1 cup chicken broth low sodium
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Season the chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Turn the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Brown the chicken thighs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
- Remove chicken thighs and add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
- Place the chicken thighs back inside the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and set to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
- Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure. Serve hot.
Notes
Featured Comments
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