Effortless weeknight delight: pressure cooker chicken drumsticks in 20 minutes or less

Chicken drumsticks are a versatile and budget-friendly cut of meat that can be cooked in countless ways. But if you’re looking for a quick and easy method that delivers tender, juicy results, nothing beats a pressure cooker. With its ability to rapidly create a high-pressure environment, a pressure cooker can cut down on cooking time while locking in flavor and moisture.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of cooking chicken drumsticks in a pressure cooker, from choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the cooking technique. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will empower you to create mouthwatering chicken drumsticks with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound chicken drumsticks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks

• Rinse the chicken drumsticks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• Season the drumsticks with salt and pepper to taste.

2. Heat the Pressure Cooker

• Add the olive oil to the pressure cooker and heat it over medium-high heat.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the onion and garlic to the hot oil and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.

4. Add the Herbs

• Stir in the oregano and thyme and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

5. Add the Chicken and Liquid

• Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks in the pressure cooker and pour in the chicken broth.

6. Seal and Cook

• Close the lid of the pressure cooker and lock it into place.
• Set the pressure to high and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

7. Quick Release

• Once the cooking time is complete, turn off the heat and perform a quick release of pressure by carefully opening the steam release valve.

8. Glaze (Optional)

• If desired, brush the chicken drumsticks with barbecue sauce and place them under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Drumsticks:

• For crispy skin, pat the chicken drumsticks dry before seasoning them.
• Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the pressure cooker for extra flavor.
• If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use water instead.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become tough.
• Let the pressure cooker naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes before opening the lid. This will help prevent the chicken from becoming dry.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• For a complete meal, pair the chicken drumsticks with a side of rice, beans, or pasta.
• Leftover chicken drumsticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations:

• Add a tablespoon of honey to the pressure cooker for a sweet and sticky glaze.
• Swap out the barbecue sauce for your favorite marinade, such as teriyaki or honey mustard.
• Add a handful of chopped vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to the pressure cooker for a more flavorful dish.

The Ultimate Chicken Drumsticks Recipe: A Culinary Masterpiece

This pressure cooker chicken drumsticks recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines ease of preparation with exceptional taste. The high-pressure environment of the pressure cooker tenderizes the chicken while locking in moisture and flavor, resulting in succulent drumsticks that fall off the bone.

Frequently Discussed Topics

• How do I know when the chicken drumsticks are done cooking?
• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

• Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks?
• Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes.

• What is the best way to reheat chicken drumsticks?
• Reheat the chicken drumsticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.