If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors yet requires minimal fuss, the Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Peri Peri Sauce Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe combines succulent, tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection with a tangy, spicy peri peri sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfectly balanced between zesty citrus, smoky paprika, and just the right kick of heat, this dish delivers a comforting, flavorful meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this recipe fits the bill for a delightful, satisfying dinner that feels elevated without the hassle.

Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Peri Peri Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Peri Peri Sauce Recipe is in its simplicity—the ingredients list is straightforward but essential for layering the bold and bright flavors that make this dish unforgettable. Each component plays a vital role, from the citrusy brightness of lemon and orange to the smoky warmth of paprika and the punch of garlic.

1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: The star of the dish, these deliver juicy and tender meat that soaks up the sauce perfectly.
1 teaspoon all-purpose seasoning: Adds a foundational savory boost that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Brings moisture and depth, creating a flavorful cooking liquid for the Instant Pot.
1 lemon, zested and juiced: Offers fresh acidity that brightens the sauce and balances the heat.
1 orange, juiced: Adds natural sweetness and complexity to the peri peri sauce.
1/4 cup olive oil: Infuses the sauce with richness and helps marry all the flavors beautifully.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a punchy aromatic base crucial to authentic peri peri flavor.
2 teaspoons paprika: Smoky and warming, it boosts the depth of the sauce’s spice profile.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herbal note that complements the citrus and heat.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Brings the signature peri peri heat, adjustable to your spice tolerance.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, bright garnish that adds color and herbal lift to the finished dish.

How to Make Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Peri Peri Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry to ensure that the seasoning sticks evenly. Sprinkle the all-purpose seasoning on both sides of the chicken, rubbing it in gently. This step is important because it lays the flavorful foundation that makes every bite deliciously savory.

Step 2: Arrange Chicken in the Instant Pot

Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of your Instant Pot. Try as best as you can to keep them evenly spread out so that they cook uniformly. This helps each thigh absorb the peri peri sauce fully without overcrowding.

Step 3: Prepare and Pour the Peri Peri Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken broth, lemon zest and juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. This vibrant blend is your peri peri sauce base that will infuse the chicken with its unforgettable tang and warmth. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the pot.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Chicken

Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Choose the manual or high-pressure setting and set the timer for 13 minutes. This cooking time is perfect for the chicken to become tender while soaking up all those zesty peri peri flavors.

Step 5: Release Pressure Carefully

Allow your Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 5 minutes to keep the chicken juicy. Afterward, do a quick release for any remaining pressure before carefully opening the lid. This two-step method ensures your chicken is moist and perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Remove the cooked chicken and place it on a plate to rest. Switch the Instant Pot to the sauté function to simmer the remaining sauce for about 5 minutes. This concentrates and thickens the sauce, intensifying its bold flavor before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Arrange the chicken thighs on a serving platter and drizzle the thickened peri peri sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect balance of heat, acidity, and aroma.

How to Serve Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Peri Peri Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a must—it adds brightness and a lovely green contrast on the plate. Lemon wedges on the side can give an extra burst of citrus for anyone who wants to add another layer of zing.

Side Dishes

Pair this flavorful chicken with fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. For a fresher touch, a simple cucumber and tomato salad or steamed green beans serve as crunchy, cooling sides that complement the warm spice beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve the chicken in warm pita bread with pickled veggies and a dollop of cooling yogurt. It also shines atop a bed of couscous with roasted vegetables or tossed into a vibrant salad for a lighter meal option full of bold Mediterranean vibes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your delicious meal has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day portions even more delicious for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes exceptionally well. Place leftover chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave or stovetop pan with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the meat moist and the sauce luscious. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?

Absolutely! While this recipe is written with boneless thighs for quicker cooking, bone-in thighs can be used but may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

How spicy is the peri peri sauce in this recipe?

The amount of crushed red pepper flakes controls the heat—feel free to adjust the amount up or down depending on your spice preference. The sauce tends to have a lively kick but is balanced by citrus and herbs.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Whisking together the peri peri sauce ingredients ahead of time saves steps on cooking day. Just keep it refrigerated and bring it to room temperature before adding to the Instant Pot.

Is it necessary to use an Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot makes this recipe super quick and easy while locking in moisture and flavor, but it can be adapted for stovetop cooking with a covered pan, just allow more time for the chicken to become tender.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can work in a pinch, although using broth adds more depth to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Instant Pot Bone-In Chicken Thighs with Peri Peri Sauce Recipe, it will become a staple in your meal rotation. It hits every note—a little spicy, a little tangy, delightfully savory, and incredibly juicy—all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. Give it a go and watch how quickly it becomes a loved favorite at your table!