Looking for a foolproof way to make perfectly tender chicken drumsticks? This Instant Pot chicken drumsticks recipe delivers incredibly juicy, flavorful results in just 30 minutes. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, these pressure-cooked drumsticks will become your new go-to chicken recipe. The Instant Pot works its magic by sealing in moisture while infusing the meat with savory seasonings.
Why You'll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot are a game-changer for busy cooks. The pressure cooking method ensures the meat stays tender and juicy while significantly cutting down on cooking time compared to traditional methods. Plus, drumsticks are one of the most economical cuts of chicken, making this recipe both budget-friendly and delicious. The hands-off cooking process means you can focus on preparing side dishes or helping kids with homework while dinner practically makes itself.
Jump to:
- Why You'll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- The Secret to Irresistibly Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
- Equipment Needed
- Storage Instructions
- Serving Suggestions
- Recipe Variations
- Dietary Modifications
- FAQ
- Wrap Up Your Meal with Flavor – Your New Go-To Chicken Recipe!
- Related
- Pairing
- Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Ingredients
the Main Dish:
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, diced (optional)
the Seasoning Mix:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
Prepare the Drumsticks
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This ensures the seasonings stick better and helps achieve a better sear.
- In a small bowl, combine all seasoning mix ingredients.
- Rub the olive oil all over the drumsticks, then coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Pressure Cook
- Select the Sauté function on your Instant Pot and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Once hot, brown the drumsticks in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Don't skip this step – it adds incredible flavor!
- Remove the drumsticks and set aside.
- Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent (about 2 minutes).
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Return the drumsticks to the pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to "Sealing."
- Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for 5 minutes natural release, then carefully perform a quick release.
Optional Broiling
- For crispy skin, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
The Secret to Irresistibly Juicy Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly seasoned, fall-off-the-bone chicken drumstick, and the secret to getting that deep, rich flavor starts before the cooking even begins. The trick? Choosing drumsticks of similar size ensures they cook evenly, so you won’t end up with some overcooked and others underdone. But here’s the real game-changer: letting the seasoned drumsticks rest in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
This extra step allows the spices to fully penetrate, creating layers of flavor that make every bite unforgettable. When placing them in the Instant Pot, be careful not to stack them directly on top of each other—this small detail ensures even cooking and maximum juiciness. And don’t let that flavorful cooking liquid go to waste! Save it to make a rich, savory gravy or use it as a base for soups—it’s liquid gold that elevates future meals. With these simple but powerful tricks, you’ll take your Instant Pot chicken drumsticks from ordinary to extraordinary—every single time.
Equipment Needed
- 6-quart Instant Pot or larger
- Tongs for handling the chicken
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings
- Paper towels
- Baking sheet (if broiling)
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cooled drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Place in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes
Serving Suggestions
These Instant Pot chicken drumsticks pair perfectly with:
- Steamed rice or mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh garden salad
- Corn on the cob
- Coleslaw
Recipe Variations
- BBQ Style: Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce before broiling
- Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest to the seasoning mix and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked drumsticks
- Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix
- Asian-Inspired: Replace the seasoning mix with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil
Dietary Modifications
- Keto/Low-Carb: This recipe is naturally keto-friendly
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free
- Dairy-Free: Recipe is naturally dairy-free
- Paleo: Use coconut oil instead of olive oil and check your seasonings for compliance
FAQ
How long to cook drumsticks in an Instant Pot?
Chicken drumsticks take about 10 minutes on high pressure in an Instant Pot, followed by a natural release for 5 minutes, then a quick release. If you want crispier skin, you can broil them in the oven for a few minutes after pressure cooking.
How many minutes does it take to cook drumsticks?
In an Instant Pot, drumsticks typically cook in 10 minutes on high pressure. If cooking on the stovetop, they take about 30-40 minutes on medium heat, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How long does chicken take in the Instant Pot?
The cooking time depends on the cut. Boneless chicken breasts take 8-10 minutes, bone-in thighs take 10-12 minutes, and whole chicken takes about 25-30 minutes on high pressure. Always allow at least 5 minutes of natural pressure release for best results.
How to cook chicken drumsticks in a pot?
If using an Instant Pot, season the drumsticks, add 1 cup of broth or water, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let the pressure release for 5 minutes naturally before quick-releasing the rest. For stovetop cooking, simmer the drumsticks in a covered pot with broth or water for 30-40 minutes until tender, or pan-sear them first for extra flavor.
Wrap Up Your Meal with Flavor – Your New Go-To Chicken Recipe!
Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken and hello to perfectly juicy, flavor-packed Instant Pot chicken drumsticks—ready in just 30 minutes! With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these drumsticks will have everyone coming back for seconds.
But why stop here? If you're craving more incredible chicken recipes, try our Alice Springs Chicken Recipe for a cheesy, honey-mustard delight that’s just as easy to make. Or take your taste buds on a trip to the Philippines with our Instant Pot Chicken Adobo—a savory, tangy dish that’s packed with deep, comforting flavors.
Don’t forget to save this recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments! What’s your favorite way to season chicken drumsticks? We’d love to hear your tips and variations. Happy cooking!
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Equipment
- 6-quart Instant Pot Or larger
- Tongs for For handling the chicken
- Measuring spoons For seasoning mix
- Small bowl for mixing seasonings
- Paper towels To dry drumsticks
- Baking sheet If broiling for crispy skin
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks 2-3 lbs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion diced
Seasoning Mix
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
Prepare the Drumsticks
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This ensures the seasonings stick better and helps achieve a better sear.
- In a small bowl, combine all seasoning mix ingredients.
- Rub the olive oil all over the drumsticks, then coat them evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Pressure Cook
- Select the Sauté function on your Instant Pot and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Once hot, brown the drumsticks in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden. Don't skip this step – it adds incredible flavor!
- Remove the drumsticks and set aside.
- Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent (about 2 minutes).
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
- Return the drumsticks to the pot.
- Close the lid and set the valve to "Sealing."
- Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for 5 minutes natural release, then carefully perform a quick release.
Optional Broiling
- For crispy skin, transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
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