When the week drags on, and my craving for something flavorful yet uncomplicated kicks in, I turn to my trusty Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs. The moment I unwrap the vibrant apricot preserves and whisk together their sticky sweetness with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, my kitchen begins to transform. The delightful aroma wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy dinner table filled with laughter and good food. Each tender bite of chicken, glazed to perfection and packed with savory and sweet notes, wraps you in a comforting hug.
Whether it’s a hectic weekday or a special gathering, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion. With minimal prep and a comforting, crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s an easy way to elevate your dinner experience without the fuss. So, if you’re ready to escape fast food and embrace a home-cooked sensation, let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’ll leave everyone wanting seconds!
Why will you love Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and the magic of the Instant Pot, you can create a remarkable meal in no time.
Tender Texture: These chicken thighs come out succulent and juicy, perfectly glazed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet apricot glaze perfectly balances with savory notes, making each bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Serving: Pair with rice, quinoa, or steamed veggies for a complete and satisfying dinner. Need a quick fix? Check out my recipe for Savory Maple Glazed!
Time-Saving: Enjoy an impressive homemade dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe definitely brings smiles to the table!
Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Apricot Preserves – Provides sweetness and rich flavor; substitute with peach or mango preserves for a twist.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth to the glaze; use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
• Minced Garlic – Introduces savory notes; fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
• Grated Ginger – Enhances aromatic quality and offers a slight spice; ground ginger can be used if necessary.
• Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; adjust to your taste preference.
• Sesame Oil – Contributes nuttiness and richness; can be replaced with olive oil if desired.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Main protein source that stays juicy under pressure; skin-on thighs are recommended for crispy texture.
How to Make Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs
- Combine IN A BOWL: Start your journey by mixing the apricot preserves, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and sesame oil. This marinade brings a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will coat the chicken beautifully.
- Marinate THE CHICKEN: Coat the chicken thighs generously with the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, making it irresistibly juicy.
- Sear INSTANT POT: Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add a drizzle of oil, and place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This browning creates a delicious layer of flavor!
- Deglaze THE POT: With the chicken removed, pour in the remaining marinade to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. This ensures your dish is bursting with flavor.
- Cook UNDER PRESSURE: Return the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up. Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 10 minutes, sealing in all the delicious juices.
- Release PRESSURE: After the cooking time, allow a 5-minute natural pressure release, then carefully vent to release any remaining pressure. This process will keep your chicken super tender.
- Optional – Thicken THE SAUCE: If desired, switch back to “Sauté” mode to simmer and thicken the sauce for 2-3 minutes before drizzling it generously over the chicken for that perfect finishing touch!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flair.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs Variations
Feel free to make this delicious dish your own with these fun and flavorful twists!
- Fruit Swap: Replace apricot preserves with peach or mango preserves for a delightful change in sweetness. Both options will give your chicken a unique flavor profile!
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free soy sauce to ensure everyone can enjoy this meal without worry. This small swap opens the dish to more palates while keeping all the flavor intact.
- Low-Carb Delight: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb, satisfying meal. It soaks up the sauce beautifully and adds a lovely texture.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh or frozen mixed vegetables like snap peas and bell peppers during the cooking process for a colorful, nutritious twist. They’ll add fabulous crunch and nutrition to each bite!
- Spicy Kick: Introduce heat by adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an exciting kick. It’s a great way to spice things up for those who love a bit of fire in their dishes!
- Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of orange or lime juice to the marinade for a zesty brightness. This will enhance the glaze with a fresh, tangy note that really compliments the chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the marinade for a wonderful aromatic touch. These herbs will elevate the flavors to new heights, giving you a fragrant dining experience.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika in the marinade for that extra depth of flavor. It adds a unique smokiness that perfectly balances with the sweetness of the apricot glaze.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure to give each chicken thigh enough space in the Instant Pot to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the thighs before pressure cooking enhances deep, rich flavors, making your meal even tastier.
- Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors of the apricot glaze to penetrate deeply.
- Cooking Time Adjustments: If you decide to swap chicken thighs for breasts or turkey, be mindful to adjust the cooking time accordingly for perfect tenderness.
- Check for Doneness: If your chicken isn’t fully cooked after the initial pressure cooking, simply return it to the Instant Pot for a few extra minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: For a glossy finish, don’t hesitate to sauté the sauce briefly after cooking to perfectly coat the chicken in the sticky apricot glaze.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs?
A delightful meal deserves equally charming accompaniments that enhance flavor and texture.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Acts as a perfect canvas for the apricot glaze, allowing you to savor every drop of the sticky sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and slightly bitter flavor balance nicely with the sweet chicken, adding depth to the meal.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these mashed potatoes soak up the glaze beautifully, making each bite a heavenly experience.
- Simple Cucumber Salad: A refreshing counterpart, this salad adds a crisp crunch and light acidity, cleansing the palate between bites of savory chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Its bright color and tender crunch complement the glazed chicken, while also adding a nutritious element that’s easy to prepare.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted until caramelized, these savory-sweet morsels echo the apricot’s flavor, making them a fantastic pairing.
- Mango Chutney: A fruity condiment can add an extra layer of sweetness and spice, enhancing the overall experience with every forkful.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, fruity white wine adds a refreshing touch to the meal, perfectly matching the vibrant flavors of the dish.
- Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this-rich, indulgent treat provides a luxurious end to a meal that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs
- Fridge: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain their juicy texture and delicious apricot glaze.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain tenderness.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist and enhance the flavors of the apricot glaze.
Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe apricot preserves for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing apricot preserves, look for ones that are vibrant in color and free of dark spots. The preserves should have a sweet aroma and a smooth consistency. If you can’t find apricot preserves, peach or mango preserves can make delicious substitutes.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs?
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them juicy, make sure the lid fits snugly without letting air in. A bonus tip: adding a bit of the glaze on top before sealing will help maintain moisture.
Can I freeze the chicken thighs, and what’s the best way to do it?
Yes, you can freeze the Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs! For best results, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to write the date on the container. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if my chicken thighs turn out undercooked?
Very! If your chicken is undercooked after the initial pressure cooking, you can easily fix this. Just return the thighs to the Instant Pot, close the lid, and cook on high pressure for an additional 2-3 minutes. Always check the internal temperature of chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! The Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs can easily be adjusted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free soy sauce. If you have any allergies, always check your ingredients and try using alternatives like coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for similar umami flavor.
How can I enhance the sweetness of the glaze further?
If you prefer a sweeter glaze, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade before cooking. Just mix it in along with the apricot preserves for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the savory notes beautifully.
Irresistibly Juicy Instant Pot Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 cup Apricot Preserves Provides sweetness and rich flavor; substitute with peach or mango preserves for a twist.
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Adds umami depth to the glaze; use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- 2 cloves Minced Garlic Introduces savory notes; fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Grated Ginger Enhances aromatic quality; ground ginger can be used if necessary.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds mild heat; adjust to your taste preference.
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Contributes nuttiness and richness; can be replaced with olive oil if desired.
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs Main protein source that stays juicy under pressure; skin-on thighs are recommended for crispy texture.
Instructions
Instructions
- Combine in a bowl: Start by mixing the apricot preserves, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and sesame oil.
- Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken thighs generously with the marinade, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Sear in Instant Pot: Set your Instant Pot to 'Sauté' mode, add oil, and place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Deglaze the pot: With the chicken removed, pour in the remaining marinade to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
- Cook under pressure: Return the chicken thighs back into the pot, skin-side up. Close the lid and set your Instant Pot to 'Manual' on high for 10 minutes.
- Release pressure: After cooking, allow a 5-minute natural pressure release, then carefully vent to release any remaining pressure.
- Optional - Thicken the sauce: Switch back to 'Sauté' mode to simmer and thicken the sauce for 2-3 minutes before drizzling it over the chicken.
Notes
Nutrition
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