Effortless weeknight delight: pressure cooker chicken drumsticks in 20 minutes or less
What To Know
- 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.
- 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.
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.
