Cooking chicken breasts and thighs together in an Instant Pot is absolutely possible. However, there are some important considerations to ensure both pieces come out cooked perfectly. In this article, we’ll look at whether you can cook chicken breasts and thighs together, timing differences, how to adjust cook times, recipe ideas, and tips for success.
Can You Cook Chicken Breasts and Thighs Together?
Yes, you can cook chicken breasts and thighs together in an Instant Pot or other multi-cooker. However, chicken breasts and thighs do have different cook times. Chicken breasts are leaner and generally take less time to cook than juicier, fattier thighs.
Chicken thighs need more time to become tender and reach a safe internal temperature. Chicken breasts are quick to overcook and can dry out easily if cooked too long. So cooking them together takes a bit of finesse.
The key is choosing a cook time and pressure release method that ensures the thighs are fully cooked while the breasts stay juicy. With the right techniques, you can absolutely achieve perfect results for both in one Instant Pot recipe.
Chicken Breast and Thigh Cook Time Differences
To understand how to cook breasts and thighs together, it helps to know the differences in their ideal cook times.
For boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the Instant Pot:
- 1/2-inch thick breasts: 5-8 minutes under pressure
- 1-inch thick breasts: 10-12 minutes under pressure
For bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs in the Instant Pot:
- Small/medium thighs: 15-18 minutes under pressure
- Large thighs: 20-22 minutes under pressure
As you can see, there’s quite a difference between the cook time chicken breasts need versus thighs. Simple recipes may call for cooking each for their ideal times in separate pots. But with a few adjustments, you can cook them together.
How to Adjust Instant Pot Cook Times for Chicken Breasts and Thighs
Here are 3 methods to adapt cook times when making chicken breasts and thighs in the same Instant Pot recipe:
1. Choose a Time in the Middle
Find a cook time approximately in the middle of the breast and thigh times. For example, cook 1-inch chicken breasts and medium thighs together for 12-15 minutes under pressure. This ensures the thighs reach a safe temperature while the breasts remain moist.
2. Quick Release Pressure for Breasts, Natural Release for Thighs
Cook for the amount of time needed for the thighs, such as 18 minutes under pressure. Quick release pressure immediately to prevent the breasts from overcooking. Let the thighs continue to cook and tenderize through the natural release method.
3. Stack Breasts on Top
Arrange chicken thighs on the bottom of the Instant Pot and breasts on top. Cook for the thigh time (around 18 minutes for medium thighs). The breasts will cook slightly less on top. Quick release if needed.
Tips for Cooking Chicken Breasts and Thighs Together
Follow these tips for foolproof results:
- Use similar sized breast and thigh pieces so they cook evenly.
- Cut breasts in half crosswise for quicker, more even cooking.
- Trim excess fat from thighs so they don’t interfere with the seal.
- Add broth or water to prevent burning and help conduct heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, especially of thighs.
- Let meat rest 5-10 minutes before serving for juicier results.
- Keep an eye on breasts and remove them early if needed.
Instant Pot Chicken Breast and Thigh Recipes
Here are some delicious recipes for cooking chicken breasts and thighs together in the Instant Pot:
Chicken Fajita Bowls
Spicy chicken seasoned with fajita seasoning, peppers, onions, rice, and beans. The quick release ensures tender chicken.
BBQ Chicken with Potatoes and Carrots
Chicken coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce cooks over flavorful potatoes and carrots.
Hawaiian Chicken with Pineapple
Chicken marinated in a pineapple-soy marinade creates a family-friendly Hawaiian meal.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken in a creamy, aromatic Indian-spiced curry sauce with rice or naan bread.
Jambalaya
A New Orleans-inspired dish with spicy chicken, ham, shrimp, peppers, rice, and Creole seasoning.
Chicken and Stuffing Bowls
Tender chicken served over stuffing and vegetables for an easy one-pot meal.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken breasts and thighs together in the Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker is certainly possible with the right techniques! Adjust cook times to suit both cuts of chicken. Quick release pressure as needed for juicy breasts while allowing thighs to continue cooking. Following basic tips will ensure both come out cooked to perfection.
| Chicken Cut | Instant Pot Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Boneless Chicken Breasts | 5-12 minutes |
| Chicken Thighs | 15-22 minutes |
With a wide range of recipe options for cooking chicken breasts and thighs together, you’ll never get bored. Enjoy favorites like chicken fajitas, BBQ chicken, chicken tikka masala, jambalaya, and more with perfectly cooked chicken every time.