Introduction
These Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Thighs are the weeknight dinner magic you’ve been waiting for! With every tender bite, you’ll experience a flavor party in your mouth that makes meal times exciting and enjoyable. The combination of a savory marinade, high-pressure cooking, and succulent chicken thighs guarantees a delightful culinary experience that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- Chicken Marinade:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For Cooking:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: Serves 6
Mix It Up
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Moment
Toss the chicken thighs in this lovely mix and let them chill out in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Instant Pot Time
On sauté mode, melt the butter and sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until golden brown. Flip them to love the other side!
Flavor Boost
Remove the chicken and pour in the chicken broth. Place a trivet over the liquid, then cozy up the chicken thighs on top.
Cook Magic
Secure the lid, set to high pressure for 8 minutes, and let it work its speedy magic! Quick-release, then carefully remove the lid.
Serve and Shine
Dish up these tasty thighs and bask in the compliments that are sure to come your way! Enjoy your weeknight dinner with ease and delight.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Mix It Up
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Moment
Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade and ensure they are evenly coated. Let them chill out in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Instant Pot Time
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the butter and let it melt. Once melted, sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until they are golden brown. Flip the thighs to sear the other side for a minute or two.
Flavor Boost
Remove the chicken thighs and pour in the chicken broth. Place a trivet over the liquid, then arrange the chicken thighs on top of the trivet.
Cook Magic
Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is finished, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully remove the lid, ensuring to avoid steam burns.
Serve and Shine
Plate the juicy chicken thighs and enjoy the meal, ready to receive compliments from everyone!
Notes
Marinating Time
For best results, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours if you have the time, as this enhances the flavor even more.
Butter Replacement
You can substitute the butter with olive oil if you prefer a lighter option or want to keep it dairy-free.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, paprika, or pepper according to your personal taste preferences for a milder or spicier dish.
Leftover Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken thighs allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Ensure to let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or longer for an even deeper flavor.
Searing
Searing the chicken thighs skin-side down in butter on sauté mode creates a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step enhances the overall flavor and texture of the thighs, making them more appetizing.
Pressure Cooking
Using the Instant Pot to pressure cook the chicken thighs helps retain moisture, making the meat incredibly tender. Cooking under high pressure for 8 minutes ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and infused with broth flavor.
Quick Release
Performing a quick release of pressure after cooking allows you to access your chicken thighs without overcooking them. It helps maintain the juiciness and prevents the meat from becoming dry.
Serving
Serve the chicken thighs immediately after cooking to enjoy their optimal flavor and tenderness. Pair with your favorite sides for a well-rounded meal.
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Just reduce the cooking time to about 6 minutes.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use coconut aminos or tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe using a regular pot instead of an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for the stovetop. Sear the chicken in a regular pot, add the broth, and cover to simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
What sides pair well with these chicken thighs?
These chicken thighs go well with rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
These juicy Instant Pot chicken thighs not only make for a quick and easy weeknight meal but also deliver big on flavor, ensuring a delightful dining experience for you and your family. Enjoy the magic of cooking with ease!
