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Did you know that cooking chicken drumsticks in an Instant Pot can cut your prep time considerably while still delivering tender, juicy results? With a variety of flavors like classic BBQ and zesty lemon herb, these recipes cater to every palate. If you're looking for easy meal ideas that impress, you'll want to explore these delicious options that transform simple ingredients into standout dishes.
Key Takeaways
- Classic BBQ and Lemon Herb recipes offer easy, flavorful options for juicy chicken drumsticks made in the Instant Pot.
- Honey Garlic and Teriyaki sauces create delicious glazes that enhance the natural moisture of the drumsticks.
- Unique flavors like Smoky Chipotle and Spicy Asian add variety to your meals while keeping the chicken tender.
- Searing drumsticks before pressure cooking enhances their flavor and texture, resulting in a juicier bite.
- Pair cooked drumsticks with sides like rice, vegetables, or salads for a complete and satisfying meal.
Classic BBQ Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Cooking chicken drumsticks in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you're looking to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
These Classic BBQ Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor thanks to a delicious homemade barbecue sauce. The pressure cooking method not only reduces cooking time but also locks in moisture, making these drumsticks irresistibly succulent.
With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a classic BBQ experience without the need for outdoor grilling. The drumsticks are seasoned to perfection and coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that caramelizes beautifully during the cooking process.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you want a comforting meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Confirm that each drumstick is evenly coated with the spices.
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the drumsticks for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they're browned. You may need to do this in batches. Once browned, remove the drumsticks and set them aside.
- Pour in the chicken broth or water to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will help prevent the burn notice.
- Return the drumsticks to the pot and pour in the BBQ sauce, making sure they're well coated. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam. Carefully remove the drumsticks and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Extra Tips:
For an added touch, you can finish the drumsticks under the broiler for a couple of minutes after cooking to achieve that classic grilled look and caramelization.
Just place them on a baking sheet, brush with more BBQ sauce, and broil on high for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender drumsticks with your favorite sides!
Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Honey Garlic Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic, creating a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for any occasion. The Instant Pot makes this recipe incredibly easy, allowing you to achieve tender, juicy chicken in a fraction of the time it would take to bake or boil.
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, these drumsticks are sure to impress your family and friends with their rich flavor and succulent texture.
Cooking chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also locks in moisture, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. The honey garlic sauce coats the chicken beautifully, creating a sticky glaze that enhances the overall taste.
Serve these drumsticks with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Place the chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot and pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is completed, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes before performing a quick release to let out the remaining steam.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the drumsticks and set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the sauce until it thickens.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
Additionally, if you'd like to achieve a crispy skin, you can place the cooked drumsticks under the broiler for a few minutes after cooking to crisp them up. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Spicy Asian Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Spicy Asian Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a flavorful and easy dish that brings a delicious kick to your dinner table. The Instant Pot guarantees that the chicken becomes tender and juicy, while the spicy Asian marinade infuses it with bold flavors. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or for impressing guests at your next gathering.
To make these drumsticks, you'll combine classic Asian ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili paste. The result is a mouthwatering dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. Let's plunge into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preparing the marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper.
Place the chicken drumsticks in a large resealable bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make certain the drumsticks are well-coated, then seal the bag or cover the bowl. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Once marinated, place the chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Close the lid, making sure the vent is in the sealing position.
Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and set the timer for 10 minutes on high pressure. After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the drumsticks and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor and a crispy texture, you can use the Instant Pot's sauté function to brown the chicken drumsticks for a few minutes before pressure cooking.
Additionally, if you prefer a milder dish, you can adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to suit your taste. Always verify that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Enjoy your Spicy Asian Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks!
Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Cooking Lemon Herb Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, juicy meal with minimal effort. The Instant Pot locks in moisture and infuses the chicken with a delightful blend of lemon and herbs, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prep. The tangy lemon combined with aromatic herbs creates a rejuvenating taste that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
This recipe isn't only easy to prepare but also quick to cook, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish. You'll love how the chicken drumsticks come out tender and bursting with flavor, making them a hit with both family and friends. Serving them with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad can enhance the meal even further.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. In your Instant Pot, set it to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, brown the chicken drumsticks on all sides for about 3-4 minutes. This step adds flavor and color to the drumsticks.
After browning, remove the drumsticks and set them aside. Next, pour the chicken broth into the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the drumsticks to the pot, then add the lemon juice and zest. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining pressure. The chicken should be tender and flavorful, ready for serving.
Extra Tips:
For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for a couple of hours or overnight before cooking. Additionally, if you prefer crispy skin, you can place the cooked drumsticks under a broiler for a few minutes after cooking in the Instant Pot. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
Teriyaki Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
This recipe isn't only easy to follow but also allows for customization to suit your taste. You can serve these drumsticks over rice or noodles, add steamed vegetables on the side, or even toss them into a stir-fry for a complete meal.
With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have a delightful dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper. In a mixing bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and water. Mix well until all the ingredients are blended together.
Pour the mixture into the Instant Pot and then add the seasoned drumsticks, ensuring they're well coated in the sauce.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Carefully remove the drumsticks and serve them topped with extra teriyaki sauce, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, marinate the chicken drumsticks in the teriyaki sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This will enhance the depth of flavor.
If you prefer crispy skin, you can broil the drumsticks in the oven for a few minutes after they've cooked in the Instant Pot. Just be sure to keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Enjoy your meal!
Smoky Chipotle Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
This recipe not only brings out the best flavors but also guarantees that the chicken remains incredibly moist and succulent. The smoky heat from the chipotle peppers adds a delightful kick, while the other spices enhance the overall taste profile.
Serve these delicious drumsticks with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, chipotle chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Make sure each drumstick is well-coated with the spice mixture. Next, set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and allow it to heat up.
Add the seasoned drumsticks in batches, browning them on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the drumsticks and set them aside.
After browning the chicken, pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pot by scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.
Stir in the adobo sauce, then return the drumsticks to the pot. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Serve the drumsticks hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, you can marinate the chicken drumsticks in the spice mix and adobo sauce for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat, resulting in even more deliciously smoky chicken.
Additionally, if you prefer crispy skin, you can pop the cooked drumsticks under the broiler for a few minutes after pressure cooking to achieve that perfect texture.
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Drumsticks in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot. Just increase the cooking time to guarantee they cook thoroughly. You'll still get juicy results, so don't worry about thawing them first!
How Long Should I Cook Chicken Drumsticks in the Instant Pot?
You should cook chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot for about 10 to 12 minutes on high pressure. Make sure you allow for a natural release for tender, juicy results that'll satisfy your taste buds.
What Can I Serve With Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks?
You can serve Instant Pot chicken drumsticks with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Adding roasted vegetables or coleslaw complements the dish nicely, and don't forget some crusty bread to soak up the juices!
How Do I Store Leftover Cooked Chicken Drumsticks?
To store leftover cooked chicken drumsticks, let them cool, then place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to four days or freeze for longer storage. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy!
Can I Adjust the Seasoning for Different Flavor Preferences?
Absolutely, you can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste! Experiment with different herbs and spices—add garlic powder for depth, or chili powder for heat. Just remember to taste as you go for the best results!
