Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks wafting through the kitchen. One evening, after a long day, I found myself craving something comforting yet exciting, something that would remind me of family gatherings where delicious meals were the highlight. As I tossed the tender chicken drumsticks with seasonings, I could already envision the smiles around the table, each bite bursting with flavor. The pressure cooker made it remarkably easy to achieve perfect tenderness, while the glaze of BBQ sauce added a touch of sweet stickiness that made them irresistible. This recipe has become a go-to in my household, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking is all about the ingredients you use, and the Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks recipe features some fantastic ones. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delicious meal. The star of this dish is of course the chicken drumsticks, which provide a rich and juicy base. The seasoning mix brings depth of flavor, while the BBQ sauce adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chicken.

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks – The main ingredient, providing protein and heartiness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Brings a savory depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a wonderful smoky flavor.
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth – Helps to create steam in the Instant Pot for cooking.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce – Gives a sweet and tangy coating that completes the dish.

Making Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Let’s dive right into the cooking steps that will have your kitchen smelling divine. Follow these simple directions, and you’ll have a dish to impress!

1. Start by tossing the chicken drumsticks in a bowl with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure they are well-coated, as this is where the flavor begins.
2. Next, pour water or chicken broth into the bottom of your Instant Pot. If you have a trivet or steaming rack, place it inside for added convenience.
3. Carefully add the seasoned chicken drumsticks into the pot. Spread them out a bit to ensure even cooking.
4. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing.” This is crucial for building pressure.
5. Set your Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. This short cook time is perfect for tenderizing the chicken.
6. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes. This helps retain the moisture in the chicken.
7. After the natural release, carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
8. Open the lid, and you’ll find beautifully cooked chicken drumsticks. Remove them from the pot and let them rest for a moment.
9. Finally, toss the warm chicken drumsticks in BBQ sauce until they are fully coated. The glaze will enhance the flavor and add a delightful stickiness.

Recipe Notes about Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Cooking is an adventure, and here are some tips to enhance your Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks experience. Each suggestion aims to help you master this dish and impress your loved ones.

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Freezing: These chicken drumsticks freeze well. Just ensure they’re properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of coleslaw or cornbread for a classic combination that compliments the BBQ sauce.
• Experiment: Try different BBQ sauces to switch up the flavor profile. Each sauce can give a new twist to the dish.
• Different cuts: If you can’t find drumsticks, chicken thighs or wings can be used as great alternatives.

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

• Serve hot: These Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are best enjoyed warm right after cooking.
• Family dinners: Perfect for a cozy family dinner during the week, they’re quick and satisfying.
• Game days: A great choice for game day gatherings; just serve them alongside your favorite sides.
• Picnics: Pack them for a picnic; they’re easy to transport and taste great cold or at room temperature.
• Fun with friends: Great for casual gatherings with friends and family, making entertaining easier.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks offer a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making weeknight dinners a breeze. With their tender texture and delicious BBQ glaze, they are bound to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try making them tonight; your taste buds will thank you!

Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are tender, flavorful, and covered in a delicious BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, these drumsticks promise to satisfy your cravings. Make them tonight and enjoy an easy yet impressive dish!

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Prep Time 3 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 290 kcal

Equipment

• Instant Pot

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

 

• In a bowl, toss the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• Pour water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot. If desired, place a trivet or steaming rack inside.
• Add the seasoned chicken drumsticks to the Instant Pot. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing.”
• Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. Let it naturally release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
• Remove the drumsticks and toss them in BBQ sauce.

Notes

• Use other cuts of chicken: When I can’t find drumsticks, I’ll use chicken thighs or large chicken wings.
• Brown sugar: For a touch of sweetness, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the spice mixture.
• Use a spice rub: Swap the spices I listed for your favorite spice rub, or experiment with thyme, oregano, onion powder, or cayenne pepper for some heat.

Keyword BBQ chicken drumsticks, chicken drumsticks recipe, easy chicken recipe, Instant Pot Chicken

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.