Name: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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Table of Contents: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce

Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce

INSTANT POT CHICKEN THIGHS WITH BALSAMIC SAUCE: A Flavorful & Effortless Dinner

Remember when a delicious, home-cooked meal felt achievable every night? Life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. This Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce recipe brings back that ease, delivering tender, juicy chicken with a rich, tangy glaze in under an hour. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave comfort food without the fuss.

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels a little special, or a simple yet impressive dish for a casual gathering, you’ve found it. This recipe utilizes the magic of the Instant Pot to create incredibly tender chicken thighs, and the balsamic sauce elevates the flavor profile to something truly memorable.

Forget dried-out chicken – this method locks in moisture, resulting in a succulent meal your whole family will enjoy. We’ll explore how to make this balsamic glazed chicken thighs a regular part of your rotation, and even answer some common questions about using your pressure cooker for chicken.

This isn’t just another pressure cooker chicken recipe; it’s a gateway to quick, flavorful, and stress-free cooking. The combination of savory chicken, sweet balsamic, and aromatic garlic is a classic for a reason. It’s a dish that feels both familiar and sophisticated, making it ideal for everything from a cozy family dinner to a relaxed holiday meal.

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might also find it referred to as:

* Pressure Cooker Balsamic Chicken
* Instant Pot Balsamic Chicken and Veggies (easily add more vegetables!)
* Balsamic Chicken Thighs
* Easy Instant Pot Chicken Dinner
* Sweet and Tangy Chicken Thighs

For a slight variation, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the balsamic sauce for an extra layer of tang. You can also swap the red wine for chicken broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.

Ingredients: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

* 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (Note 1)
* 1 medium carrot, diced
* 1/4 medium onion, diced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup red wine (Note 2)
* 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
* 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 tablespoon butter
* Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy – this is your base flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and heat until shimmering. Sear the chicken thighs in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. This step adds a beautiful depth of flavor, but can be skipped if you’re short on time. Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and carrot to the Instant Pot and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the Instant Pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. This is crucial to prevent the “Burn” error. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
5. Add the Sauce & Chicken: Pour in the balsamic vinegar. Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot, nestling them among the vegetables.

6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 10 minutes.
7. Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
8. Finish the Sauce: Remove the chicken thighs from the Instant Pot and set aside. Turn the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function. Add the butter to the sauce and whisk until melted and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

9. Serve: Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot and coat them with the balsamic sauce. Serve immediately over rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (plus pressure build-up and release)
Total Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes
Servings: 4
Approximate Calories: 350-400 per serving (depending on side dish)

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce recipe works because the pressure cooking method breaks down the connective tissues in the chicken thighs, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy meat.

The searing step (while optional) adds a Maillard reaction, creating complex flavors that elevate the dish. The balsamic vinegar, with its natural sweetness and acidity, creates a beautiful glaze that complements the savory chicken perfectly.

This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners. A key tip is to always deglaze the pot thoroughly. Those browned bits on the bottom are packed with flavor, but they can also cause the dreaded “Burn” error.

Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing; work in batches to ensure proper browning. And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with the sauce! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, while a teaspoon of honey can enhance the sweetness.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Storage: Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. It’s best to freeze them without the sauce, as the sauce can sometimes become watery upon thawing.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken thighs in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop. If reheating with sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat to crisp up the chicken slightly. This is a great way to enjoy instant pot balsamic chicken even days later!

Conclusion: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce

So there you have it – a foolproof recipe for incredibly flavorful and tender Instant Pot Chicken Thighs with Balsamic Sauce. I hope you’ll give it a try and experience the magic of pressure cooking for yourself. Don’t hesitate to share your creations with me! I love seeing how you adapt and enjoy my recipes. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!