Name: Instant Pot Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 4 pounds chicken wings (bone-in); 2 packets buffalo wings seasoning mix ((1 ounce each)); 1 ½ cups buffalo sauce ((divided)); Ranch or bleu cheese dressing (for dipping (optional)); celery or carrots (for serving (optional))

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, flavorful wing, especially when it’s made in an Instant Pot. Instant Pot Chicken Wings are a staple for any gathering, from game day to a cozy movie night at home. The first time I made them, I was amazed at how quickly I could whip up a batch that rivaled my favorite restaurant’s. The secret? The Instant Pot’s magic! It locks in all the moisture, making the chicken wings incredibly tender and juicy. Plus, the convenience of having the wings ready in no time means that I can focus on enjoying the moment with friends and family instead of being stuck in the kitchen. After that first try, I knew I had to keep this recipe in my rotation. It’s just that good!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
23 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
18 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
27 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Wings

They’re Incredibly Easy to Make

With just a few simple steps, you can have delicious Instant Pot Chicken Wings ready to serve. The Instant Pot does most of the work for you, allowing you to focus on other party preparations or just relax and unwind.

Perfectly Crispy Every Time

Thanks to the pressure cooking method, your wings turn out perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. The broiling step at the end adds that extra crunch that everyone loves.

Customizable Flavors

You can easily switch up the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you prefer spicy buffalo, tangy barbecue, or a zesty lemon pepper, you can make it your own. The versatility of the Instant Pot Chicken Wings makes them a hit at any event!

Quick Cleanup

Who doesn’t love minimal cleanup after a big meal? The Instant Pot means fewer dishes to wash, and you can enjoy the delicious results without the hassle of complicated cookware.

Great for Entertaining

These wings are perfect for gatherings. They disappear quickly, and everyone loves a good finger food! Just set out some dipping sauces and sides, and you’re all set.

What to Buy for Instant Pot Chicken Wings

When it comes to making Instant Pot Chicken Wings, the choice of ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect flavor and texture. The key players include fresh, high-quality chicken wings and a robust buffalo sauce. These ingredients complement each other beautifully, creating a delightful dish that’s sure to impress.

1 cup water
4 pounds chicken wings (bone-in)
2 packets buffalo wings seasoning mix (1 ounce each)
1 ½ cups buffalo sauce (divided)
Optional: Ranch or bleu cheese dressing for dipping
Optional: celery or carrots for serving

Recipe Steps for Instant Pot Chicken Wings

Making Instant Pot Chicken Wings is a fun and straightforward process that brings delicious results. Let’s dive into the steps to create this tasty dish!

Begin by adding 1 cup of water to the bottom of your Instant Pot. This water is crucial as it creates the steam needed for pressure cooking.
Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to separate the wingette from the drumette of each chicken wing. This step might take a bit of practice, but it will make for a more uniform cooking experience.
Gently dry the chicken wing pieces with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning stick better. Sprinkle the buffalo seasoning all over the wings, ensuring you rub it in well for maximum flavor.
Place the coated wings in an Instant Pot trivet or steamer basket. Make sure they sit just above the water you added earlier, allowing them to steam perfectly.
Seal your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook the wings on manual pressure for 8 minutes. You’ll hear the familiar hiss as it builds pressure.
Once the cooking time is complete, perform an instant release of the pressure. Wait until all the air has escaped and then carefully open the Instant Pot.
Gently remove the chicken wings from the basket and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Be cautious as they will be extremely tender and may come apart easily.
Pour 1 cup of buffalo sauce over the cooked wings and toss gently until they are well coated. If you want more spice, feel free to add additional sauce in tablespoon increments until they reach your desired flavor.
Place the wings on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spread out nicely.
Broil the wings on high for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred level of crispiness. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
If you’d like extra sauce, now’s the time. Toss the wings in any remaining sauce before serving them hot with ranch or bleu cheese dressing on the side.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Time Variations: Depending on the size of your wings, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Larger wings may need an additional minute or two.
Safety First: Always ensure that the wings are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.
Flavor Infusion: For an even more robust flavor, marinate the wings in the seasoning overnight before cooking.
Serving Temperature: Let your wings rest for a few minutes after cooking; they’ll be easier to handle and the flavors will settle in.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Instant Pot Chicken Wings turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings for easy future meals. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Pairing: Serve your wings with fresh celery and carrots for a crunchy side that complements the spicy flavors.
Dip Choices: Experiment with different dips like honey mustard or garlic aioli to switch it up.
Cooking in Batches: If you’re feeding a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. Just cook in batches and keep the first batch warm in the oven.
Flavor Tweaks: Adjust the amount of seasoning and sauce based on your spice tolerance—add more for a fiery kick!
Keep It Tender: Avoid crowding the pot; cook in smaller batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.

How to Enjoy Instant Pot Chicken Wings

When it comes to serving your Instant Pot Chicken Wings, there are countless ways to do so. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

As a Party Snack: Wings are a classic party food. Set up a platter with various dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.
Game Day Essential: Serve them during any sports event for a fun, casual meal that everyone loves.
Casual Dinner: Pair with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Family Gatherings: They make for a great dish to pass around the table, allowing everyone to grab a few and dive in.
Outdoor BBQ: Consider grilling them outside after pressure cooking for an extra smoky flavor.
Seasonal Pairings: Adapt your sides based on the season; think coleslaw in summer or mashed potatoes in the winter!
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers properly to enjoy them the next day. They can be reheated in the oven for that crispy texture again!

FAQ

Absolutely! If you love heat, you can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce you use or even add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning. The beauty of Instant Pot Chicken Wings is that they’re easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Try experimenting with different sauces or spices to find your perfect flavor!

When it comes to serving Instant Pot Chicken Wings, the options are plentiful! Classic pairings include fresh celery and carrots with dipping sauces like ranch or bleu cheese. You could also serve them alongside some crispy fries or a refreshing salad to balance the heat of the wings.

The best way to reheat Instant Pot Chicken Wings is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, spread the wings out on a baking sheet, and warm them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method helps maintain their crispy texture, ensuring they taste just as delicious as when they were first made!

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. For frozen wings, cook them for about 12 to 15 minutes under pressure. Make sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure food safety!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Instant Pot Chicken Wings offer a fantastic combination of flavor, convenience, and fun. They’re a delicious way to enjoy wings without the extensive cooking time, making them perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Instant Pot Chicken Wings

The ultimate comfort food, Instant Pot Chicken Wings are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make! Perfect for game day or any occasion, these wings will satisfy your cravings. Make them tonight for a deliciously quick treat!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 18

Total Time 23

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Instant Pot

Ingredients

1 cup water
4 pounds chicken wings bone-in
2 packets buffalo wings seasoning mix (1 ounce each)
1 ½ cups buffalo sauce (divided)
Ranch or bleu cheese dressing for dipping (optional)
celery or carrots for serving (optional)

Instructions

Begin by adding 1 cup of water to the bottom of your Instant Pot. This water is crucial as it creates the steam needed for pressure cooking.
Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to separate the wingette from the drumette of each chicken wing. This step might take a bit of practice, but it will make for a more uniform cooking experience.
Gently dry the chicken wing pieces with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning stick better. Sprinkle the buffalo seasoning all over the wings, ensuring you rub it in well for maximum flavor.
Place the coated wings in an Instant Pot trivet or steamer basket. Make sure they sit just above the water you added earlier, allowing them to steam perfectly.
Seal your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook the wings on manual pressure for 8 minutes. You’ll hear the familiar hiss as it builds pressure.
Once the cooking time is complete, perform an instant release of the pressure. Wait until all the air has escaped and then carefully open the Instant Pot.
Gently remove the chicken wings from the basket and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Be cautious as they will be extremely tender and may come apart easily.
Pour 1 cup of buffalo sauce over the cooked wings and toss gently until they are well coated. If you want more spice, feel free to add additional sauce in tablespoon increments until they reach your desired flavor.
Place the wings on a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spread out nicely.
Broil the wings on high for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred level of crispiness. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
If you’d like extra sauce, now’s the time. Toss the wings in any remaining sauce before serving them hot with ranch or bleu cheese dressing on the side.