Instant Pot Chicken Thighs: Perfect Cooking Times Revealed

Boneless chicken thighs need 10-12 minutes at high pressure with a 10-minute natural release, while bone-in chicken thighs require 12-15 minutes at high pressure with a 10-minute natural release. Always verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Discover exactly how long to cook chicken thighs in Instant Pot for perfectly tender, juicy results every time. This comprehensive guide delivers precise timing for both boneless and bone-in varieties, plus essential preparation steps, safety checks, and professional cooking techniques you won't find elsewhere.

Why Instant Pot Chicken Thighs Work Perfectly

Chicken thighs are ideal for pressure cooking because their higher fat content withstands high pressure without drying out. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs become incredibly tender while maintaining moisture—making them the perfect candidate for Instant Pot cooking. The sealed environment locks in juices while dramatically reducing cooking time compared to traditional methods.

Your Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Follow this sequence for foolproof results, whether you're using fresh or frozen chicken thighs:

Preparation Essentials

Before setting your timer, ensure proper preparation:

• Pat thighs dry with paper towels (critical for proper browning)
• Season generously with salt and pepper (add spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor)
• Add 1 cup minimum liquid (broth, water, or sauce) to prevent burn notices
• Arrange thighs in single layer without overlapping

Actual Cooking Time Guidelines

These times apply to fresh or thawed chicken thighs. Cooking from frozen requires additional time—more details in the troubleshooting section.

Type	High Pressure Time	Natural Release	Total Time	Internal Temp
Boneless, skinless	10-12 minutes	10 minutes	30-35 minutes	165°F (74°C)
Bone-in, skin-on	12-15 minutes	10 minutes	32-37 minutes	165°F (74°C)

This fact comparison table reflects USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service guidelines requiring poultry to reach 165°F for safe consumption. The natural release period is crucial—rushing this step causes juices to escape, resulting in dry chicken.

Critical Safety Considerations

Food safety must never be compromised when cooking poultry. According to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, chicken thighs must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria like salmonella. Always use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding contact with bone.

Pressure cooking doesn't automatically guarantee safe temperatures. Factors like starting temperature (frozen vs. fresh), quantity, and pot calibration affect final results. Never rely solely on timer settings—always verify with a thermometer.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"Burn" Message Solutions

If your Instant Pot displays a "Burn" message:

• Ensure adequate liquid (minimum 1 cup)
• Scrape bottom thoroughly after sautéing
• Use trivet to elevate chicken above sauce
• Reduce thick sauces that can scorch

Frozen Chicken Thighs Adjustment

When cooking frozen chicken thighs, add 5-7 minutes to the pressure cooking time. The USDA recommends no additional time for frozen poultry in pressure cooking since the extended natural release compensates for the temperature difference. However, bone-in frozen thighs may need the full 7 minutes added to ensure thorough cooking.

Overcooked or Undercooked Fixes

Undercooked chicken (below 165°F): Return to high pressure for 2-3 minutes with quick release.

Overcooked chicken (dry texture): Shred and toss with sauce or broth to restore moisture. For future batches, reduce cooking time by 2 minutes.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Sear first: Use the sauté function to brown thighs before pressure cooking for enhanced flavor
• Stack carefully: If layering thighs, rotate top and bottom pieces halfway through cooking
• Rest properly: Allow full 10-minute natural release—don't skip this critical step
• Check strategically: Test multiple pieces since pressure distribution varies in the pot

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Properly stored Instant Pot chicken thighs maintain quality for:

• Refrigeration: 3-4 days in airtight container
• Freezing: 2-3 months when wrapped tightly

Reheat gently to preserve moisture:

• Stovetop: Simmer in sauce for 3-5 minutes
• Microwave: Cover with damp paper towel, heat in 30-second intervals
• Oven: 325°F for 10-15 minutes with broth splash

When Standard Times Don't Apply

These cooking guidelines assume standard conditions. Adjust when:

• Using extra-large thighs (add 2-3 minutes)
• Cooking with thick sauces (may require additional liquid)
• High altitude locations (add 5% cooking time per 1,000 feet above sea level)
• Overfilling the pot (never exceed 2/3 capacity with liquid foods)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook chicken thighs without liquid in Instant Pot?

No, Instant Pots require at least 1 cup of liquid to build proper pressure. Without sufficient liquid, you'll get a burn notice and potentially damage your appliance. Use broth, water, or sauce as your cooking liquid.

Why are my chicken thighs dry after pressure cooking?

Dry chicken usually results from insufficient natural release time or overcooking. Always allow the full 10-minute natural release—rushing this step forces juices out of the meat. For boneless thighs, reduce cooking time to 10 minutes. Verify temperature with a thermometer rather than relying solely on timer settings.

How do I know when chicken thighs are done in Instant Pot?

The only reliable method is checking internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. Chicken thighs must reach 165°F (74°C) at their thickest point. Visual cues like clear juices aren't sufficient for food safety. Never rely solely on timer settings as factors like starting temperature and quantity affect final results.

Can I stack chicken thighs in the Instant Pot?

Yes, but with precautions. Stack no more than two layers deep, placing larger pieces on bottom. Rotate pieces halfway through cooking if possible. For best results, cook in batches to ensure even pressure distribution. Stacking too many thighs increases cooking time unpredictably and risks uneven results.

Do I need to adjust cooking time for different Instant Pot models?

No significant adjustments are needed between standard Instant Pot models (Duo, Ultra, Lux). All function similarly for pressure cooking. However, older models with less precise pressure control may require an extra minute of cooking time. Always follow the same safety protocols regardless of model.