14 Instant Pot Chicken Thigh Recipes That Save Weeknight Dinners

14 Instant Pot Chicken Thigh Recipes That Save Weeknight Dinners are the ultimate solution for busy evenings when time is short but a delicious, hearty meal is still a must. Chicken thighs, with their rich flavor and tender texture, are the perfect protein for quick-cooking pressure cooker meals that don’t sacrifice taste for speed. Whether you’re juggling work, school, or family responsibilities, these recipes are designed to bring simplicity and satisfaction back to your dinner routine. From comforting stews to bold, globally inspired dishes, each recipe is packed with flavor and ready in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

These Instant Pot recipes are ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks looking to make the most of their pressure cookers. Each dish is crafted to maximize flavor with minimal effort, making them perfect for anyone who wants a warm, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find options for every craving—from creamy sauces and savory broths to spicy, tangy glazes—all tailored to make your chicken thighs shine. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this list is your new go-to guide for weeknight dinner success.

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs

Mediterranean Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, zesty olives, and fresh herbs creates a flavor explosion that is both satisfying and comforting. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

With just a few ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can have a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The tender chicken pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of olives and tomatoes, making it a dish everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4-6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black olives, pitted
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme. Set aside.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for approximately 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and chopped bell pepper. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooked, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Serve the chicken thighs warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!

Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs

Spicy Cajun Chicken Thighs are perfect for a weeknight dinner that brings a punch of flavor without taking up too much of your time. The dish combines juicy chicken thighs with a bold Cajun seasoning blend, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

This recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. The Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, ensuring the chicken stays tender while infusing it with a rich, spicy sauce. Pair it with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a delicious dinner ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 3 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder to the pot. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. After the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
5. Carefully remove the chicken thighs and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs are a delightful and simple dish perfect for busy weeknights. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor and aromatic herbs, this recipe transforms your chicken into a juicy, zesty meal that everyone will love.

Using the Instant Pot makes cooking a breeze, ensuring that your chicken is tender and infused with flavor in no time. It’s a quick dish that brings a refreshing twist to your dinner table, making it a favorite for families looking for something both easy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook in the Instant Pot: Add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Place the marinated chicken thighs in the pot. Seal the lid and set the pressure cooker to high for 10 minutes.
3. Release Pressure: After cooking, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
4. Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy the burst of lemony goodness!

BBQ Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes

BBQ chicken thighs with sweet potatoes are a delicious weeknight meal that combines the savory flavor of grilled chicken with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes. This recipe is simple to make, using the Instant Pot to lock in flavors while keeping the thighs tender and juicy.

The blend of smoky BBQ sauce and sweet potatoes creates a satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 4-5 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside. Add the sweet potato cubes to the pot, followed by the chicken broth.
4. Place the chicken thighs on top of the sweet potatoes and pour the BBQ sauce over everything.
5. Close the lid, set the pressure valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
6. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
7. Serve the chicken thighs with the sweet potatoes drizzled in BBQ sauce, and enjoy!

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that make for a perfect weeknight dinner. This dish features tender chicken thighs marinated in a delicious sauce made of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. The result is a mouthwatering meal that is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying.

With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is ideal for busy evenings. The Instant Pot ensures that the chicken remains juicy while absorbing all those incredible flavors. Serve it up with a side of rice or steamed veggies, and you’ve got a wholesome dinner that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a sealable bag or bowl, and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the fridge.
3. Prepare the Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add a little oil and sear the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Add the Marinade: Once the chicken is browned, pour the remaining marinade into the pot. Close the lid and set to ‘Manual’ mode for 10 minutes.
5. Release Pressure: After cooking, allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid.
6. Serve: Plate the chicken thighs, drizzle with any leftover sauce from the pot, and garnish with chopped green onions. Enjoy!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs are a delightful weeknight dinner option that’s both rich and comforting. This dish features tender chicken thighs smothered in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly simple to make, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time.

The combination of creamy sauce and savory garlic creates a wonderful taste that pairs perfectly with rice or pasta. With just a few ingredients and the help of your Instant Pot, you can enjoy a delicious meal that the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot for about 5 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
3. Return the chicken thighs to the pot and close the lid. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 12 minutes.
4. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken thighs and set aside. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning into the pot. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Return the chicken to the creamy sauce, garnishing with fresh parsley before serving.

Chicken Thighs in Mushroom Cream Sauce

This Chicken Thighs in Mushroom Cream Sauce is a warm and comforting dish that brings a burst of flavor to your weeknight dinners. The tender chicken thighs are coated in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce that pairs beautifully with a side of rice or mashed potatoes. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy evenings.

The combination of savory mushrooms and creamy sauce makes this dish irresistible. Plus, cooking in the Instant Pot means you can have dinner ready in a flash without sacrificing taste!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Brown the chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, then remove and set aside.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and thyme, cooking for another 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the chicken thighs to the pot.
4. Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken and stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Return chicken to the sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Rice

Teriyaki chicken thighs bring a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it cooks quickly in the Instant Pot, leaving you with tender chicken coated in a glossy teriyaki sauce. The combination of juicy chicken and fluffy rice makes for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Not only is this recipe simple to follow, but it also results in a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. In just a matter of minutes, you can serve up a satisfying dinner that pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cups white rice
• 3 cups water (for rice)
• Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in the Instant Pot. Pour in the remaining marinade and close the lid. Set to manual high pressure for 8 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Open the Instant Pot, remove the chicken, and set it aside. Turn the pot to sauté mode, add the cornstarch mixture, and stir until the sauce thickens.
4. Cook the Rice: While the sauce thickens, rinse the rice under cold water. In a separate pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
5. Serve: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of rice. Drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce on top and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Buffalo Chicken Thighs

Buffalo Chicken Thighs are a quick and easy way to bring some spicy flavor to your weeknight dinners. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are coated in a zesty buffalo sauce that adds just the right kick, making them perfect for anyone who loves a little heat in their meals.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also versatile. You can serve them with crunchy celery sticks and a side of creamy ranch dressing for dipping. Whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting a gathering, these Buffalo Chicken Thighs will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Cook in Instant Pot: Add olive oil to the Instant Pot and set to sauté mode. Brown the chicken thighs for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
3. Add Sauce: Pour in the buffalo sauce and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Allow for a natural release for 5 minutes before doing a quick release.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with celery sticks and ranch dressing on the side.

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

These Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that make weeknight dinners a breeze. The chicken thighs become incredibly tender and juicy in the Instant Pot, soaking up all the delicious honey mustard goodness. It’s a simple and quick recipe that anyone can whip up, perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a hearty meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Coat the chicken thighs with the honey mustard mixture, ensuring they are well covered.
3. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a splash of oil. Brown the chicken thighs for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
4. Once browned, add any remaining honey mustard sauce to the pot. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 10 minutes.
5. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes, then manually release the rest of the pressure.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Italian Herb Chicken Thighs

Italian Herb Chicken Thighs are a quick and delicious option for weeknight dinners. With a mix of fresh herbs and savory spices, this dish brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. The chicken thighs become tender and flavorful as they cook in the Instant Pot, making it a breeze to prepare.

This recipe is not only simple but also quick, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy nights, you can serve these chicken thighs with pasta or a side salad for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture over the chicken thighs.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and brown for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Add Ingredients: Pour the chicken broth and diced tomatoes into the pot. Stir to combine, then add the chicken back in.
4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with pasta or your favorite side. Enjoy!

Coconut Curry Chicken Thighs

Coconut curry chicken thighs are a delightful weeknight dinner option that combines rich flavors and comforting aromas. The tender chicken thighs soak in a creamy coconut milk base infused with aromatic spices, delivering a mildly sweet and spicy taste that’s simply irresistible.

This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy nights. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a hassle-free dish that pairs wonderfully with rice or naan, giving you a bit of tropical flair right at your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the curry powder.
3. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are coated well in the mixture. Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
5. Remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, switch the pot back to the sauté setting and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken.
6. Serve the chicken over cooked rice, drizzling the coconut curry sauce on top. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Thighs

Balsamic glazed chicken thighs are a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors that can brighten up any weeknight dinner. This recipe features tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection, coated in a rich balsamic vinegar glaze that adds a tangy sweetness. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a go-to choice for busy evenings.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Serve it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, the Instant Pot ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful while cutting down on cooking time. You’ll want to add this recipe to your weeknight rotation!

Ingredients

• 4-6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and sear for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and dried rosemary. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release for any remaining pressure.
4. Once the pressure is released, remove the chicken and set it aside. If you want a thicker glaze, set the Instant Pot to sauté mode again and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
5. Serve the chicken thighs drizzled with the balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh rosemary, if desired.

Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Spinach and Feta

These stuffed chicken thighs are a delightful mix of juicy chicken, vibrant spinach, and creamy feta cheese. They make a tasty and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to whip up on a busy weeknight. The combination of flavors is fantastic, with the salty feta complementing the fresh spinach perfectly.

Cooking them in an Instant Pot ensures the chicken stays moist and tender while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Your family will love this dish, and you’ll appreciate how quick it is to prepare!

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix chopped spinach, feta cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Stuff the Chicken: Carefully loosen the skin of each chicken thigh and fill with the spinach and feta mixture. Secure the skin with toothpicks if necessary.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add chicken broth and lemon juice to the Instant Pot. Place the stuffed chicken thighs in the pot. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 12 minutes, then allow a natural release for 5 minutes.
4. Finish: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot. If you like a crispy skin, you can broil the thighs in the oven for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
5. Serve: Enjoy these flavorful stuffed chicken thighs with a side of your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad!

Final thoughts

When the clock is ticking and hunger hits, these Instant Pot chicken thigh recipes come to the rescue with flavor-packed results in record time. No more dinnertime stress or last-minute takeout decisions—just dependable, delicious meals your whole family will love. Add these 14 recipes to your weekly rotation and enjoy the ease, speed, and comfort of home-cooked food made simple.