Instant Pot chicken thighs with gravy

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Are you weary of dry, bland chicken? These Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Gravy will revolutionize your meals! Incredibly simple to prepare and virtually foolproof!

Instant Pot chicken thighs with gravyPin

Chicken thighs are a versatile and flavorful part of the bird, offering a juicy and succulent taste when cooked properly. Chicken thighs are a versatile and flavorful part of the bird, offering a juicy and succulent taste when cooked properly. Using an Instant Pot, we can enhance the flavors and tenderness of chicken thighs, ensuring a perfect meal every time. Our comprehensive guide will take you through the step-by-step process of making Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Gravy. Accordingly, we’ll highlight the key ingredients, preparation techniques, and cooking tips to create a dish that stands out.

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Ingredients for Instant Pot chicken thighs with gravy

To create the most delicious Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Gravy, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Chicken Thighs: 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Chicken Broth: 1 cup
  • Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
  • Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
  • Rosemary: 1 teaspoon, dried
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
  • Water: 2 tablespoons
Preparing the Chicken ThighsPin

Preparation

1. Preparing the Chicken Thighs

Firstly, Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps to achieve a crispier skin. Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. The combination of these spices will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.

2. Sautéing the Ingredients

Then, Set your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices and adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Remove the chicken thighs and set them aside.

3. Cooking the Aromatics

Finally, In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and the onion becomes translucent. This creates a flavorful base for the gravy.

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Cooking Process

4. Pressure Cooking

So, Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Place the seared chicken thighs back into the Instant Pot; ensure they are partially submerged in the liquid. Secure the lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the Pressure Cook (Manual) setting and adjust the time to 10 minutes. Additionally, adjust the cooking time accordingly if needed.

5. Natural Release

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for about 10 minutes. This gradual release process helps to keep the chicken moist and tender. After 10 minutes, carefully switch the valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.

6. Making the Gravy

firstly, Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set them aside. To make the gravy, turn the Instant Pot back to the sauté setting. Then, In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the pot, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Serving SuggestionsPin

Serving Suggestions

7. Plating the Dish

So, Place the chicken thighs on a serving platter and generously pour the gravy over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or thyme, for an added touch of color and flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.

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Tips for the Best Instant Pot Chicken Thighs

8. Choosing the Right Chicken Thighs

Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they retain more moisture and flavor during the cooking process. The skin also becomes deliciously crispy when seared properly.

9. Enhancing the Gravy

For a richer gravy, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a knob of butter just before serving. This adds a velvety texture and enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

10. Storing and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the chicken rubbery.

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Instant Pot chicken thighs: Conclusion

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Gravy is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken thighs and rich, flavorful gravy is sure to impress your family and friends. By following our detailed guide, you can create a dish that is not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare. Enjoy the convenience of the Instant Pot and the delectable results it offers.

So, If you enjoyed making these instant pot chicken thighs, be sure to check out our other delicious recipes like Easy Instant Pot Chicken FajitasInstant Pot Tuscan ChickenMarry Me Chicken recipeChicken Chow Mein With Best Chow Mein Sauce!Chicken Fried Rice recipe, and Chicken Stir Fry Recipe. Each of these dishes is packed with flavor and perfect for any meal!

More Great Instant Pot Recipes

Instant Pot chicken thighs FQs

Is 40 minutes long enough to cook chicken thighs?

Yes, 40 minutes is more than enough time to cook chicken thighs. In fact, when using an Instant Pot, chicken thighs typically require only about 10-15 minutes of cooking time under pressure, with additional time for pressure build-up and release. If you’re cooking them using other methods like baking or simmering on the stove, 40 minutes is usually sufficient to ensure they are cooked through and tender. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Why is my chicken tough in Instant Pot?

In fact, it’s easy to overcook chicken in a pressure cooker since you can’t check its doneness while it’s cooking. Overcooked chicken from a pressure cooker turns out dry and chewy.

Do chicken thighs get more tender the longer you cook them?

Unlike chicken breasts, chicken thighs and drumsticks become more tender with extended cooking. This is due to their composition; dark meat has plenty of connective tissue that breaks down into gelatin as it cooks, making the meat juicy and tender.

How many minutes per chicken thigh?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs cook quickly, taking about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on their size. Bone-in thighs require a bit more time, around 25 to 30 minutes. Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thighs.

Instant Pot chicken thighs with gravyPin

Instant Pot chicken thighs

5 from 2 votes
Tired of dry, boring chicken? These Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Gravy will transform your meals! They're incredibly easy to make and nearly impossible to mess up!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
CourseAppetizer, Main Course
CuisineAmerican
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings6 Servings
Calories229kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 teaspoons herb and garlic seasoning or any chicken seasoning blend
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

  • Season both sides of the chicken with the seasoning blend.
  • Heat butter and oil in the Instant Pot on sauté.
  • Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
  • Turn off the pot and add the broth.
  • Cover, seal, and set to high pressure for 8 minutes.
  • Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then quick release the remaining pressure.
  • Remove the chicken and set aside.
  • Mix cornstarch with an equal amount of water until smooth.
  • Switch the pot to sauté and whisk in the cornstarch mixture.
  • Continue whisking for 2-3 minutes until the gravy has thickened.
  • Serve the chicken topped with gravy.

Notes

If using frozen chicken thighs, skip the browning step and set the pot to 12 minutes on high pressure.
If using thawed bone-in chicken thighs, set the pressure to 10 minutes on high.

Nutrition

Serving: 6serving | Calories: 229kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 149mg | Sodium: 295mg | Potassium: 422mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 120IU | Vitamin C: 2.7mg | Calcium: 42mg | Iron: 1.9mg
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5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

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