10 Easy & Flavor-Packed Chicken Drumstick Recipes in the Instant Pot
Introduction: Why Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks Are a Game-Changer
If there’s one cut of chicken that never disappoints, it’s the drumstick. Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly affordable. Now imagine cooking chicken drumstick recipes in the Instant Pot—fast, mess-free, and packed with flavor. Sounds like a dream, right?
Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep lover, or someone who just wants dinner on the table now, these Instant Pot chicken drumstick recipes will save your day. No dry chicken. No long marinating hours. Just tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness every single time.
Why Cook Chicken Drumsticks in an Instant Pot?
Faster Cooking Time
Traditional oven-baked drumsticks take 40–50 minutes. In the Instant Pot? You’re looking at about 10–12 minutes of pressure cooking. That’s dinner at lightning speed.
Juicy, Fall-Off-the-Bone Texture
Pressure cooking locks in moisture like a sealed vault. The result? Chicken so tender it practically slides off the bone.
Budget-Friendly & Meal-Prep Ready
Chicken drumsticks are one of the cheapest protein options. Cook a big batch, store leftovers, and enjoy stress-free meals all week.
Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Fresh vs Frozen Drumsticks
Good news—you can cook both!
Fresh drumsticks: 10 minutes on high pressure
Frozen drumsticks: 13–15 minutes on high pressure
No thawing required. Instant Pot for the win.
How Long to Cook Drumsticks
Average size: 10 minutes (fresh)
Large drumsticks: 12 minutes
Always allow 5 minutes of natural pressure release for juicy results.
How to Get Crispy Skin
Pressure cooking makes chicken tender, not crispy. For crispy skin:
Place cooked drumsticks under the oven broiler for 5 minutes
Or air-fry at 200°C (400°F) for 6–8 minutes
Top 7 Chicken Drumstick Recipes Instant Pot
1. Classic Garlic Butter Chicken Drumsticks
Rich, savory, and comfort-food approved.
Ingredients
Chicken drumsticks – 6
Butter – 3 tbsp
Garlic – 5 cloves (minced)
Chicken broth – ½ cup
Salt & pepper
Instructions
Add butter and garlic to Instant Pot (Sauté mode).
Add drumsticks and broth.
Pressure cook on High for 10 minutes.
Quick release, then broil for crispiness.
Why You’ll Love It
Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and kid-friendly.
2. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks (Sticky & Juicy)
Finger-licking goodness without the grill.
Ingredients
Chicken drumsticks – 6
BBQ sauce – 1 cup
Water – ½ cup
Paprika – 1 tsp
Instructions
Add water and drumsticks to Instant Pot.
Pressure cook for 10 minutes.
Coat with BBQ sauce and broil until sticky.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for parties and weeknight cravings.
3. Honey Soy Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet, salty, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
Drumsticks – 6
Soy sauce – ¼ cup
Honey – 3 tbsp
Garlic – minced
Ginger – grated
Instructions
Mix sauce ingredients.
Pour over drumsticks in Instant Pot.
Cook on High for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
Asian-inspired flavors with minimal effort.
4. Spicy Cajun Chicken Drumsticks
Bold heat with smoky depth.
Ingredients
Drumsticks – 6
Cajun seasoning – 2 tsp
Oil – 1 tbsp
Chicken broth – ½ cup
Instructions
Rub seasoning onto drumsticks.
Add broth and chicken to pot.
Pressure cook for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for spice lovers.
5. Lemon Herb Chicken Drumsticks
Fresh, light, and aromatic.
Ingredients
Drumsticks – 6
Lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Italian herbs – 2 tsp
Garlic – minced
Broth – ½ cup
Instructions
Add all ingredients to Instant Pot.
Cook on High for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
Bright flavors that pair well with salads.
6. Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet and glossy perfection.
Ingredients
Drumsticks – 6
Teriyaki sauce – ¾ cup
Water – ¼ cup
Instructions
Add everything to the pot.
Pressure cook for 10 minutes.
Broil for caramelization.
Why You’ll Love It
Better than takeout.
7. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Drumsticks
Rich, cozy, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Drumsticks – 6
Mushrooms – sliced
Cream – ½ cup
Garlic – minced
Broth – ½ cup
Instructions
Sauté mushrooms and garlic.
Add chicken and broth.
Cook 10 minutes, stir in cream after.
Why You’ll Love It
Comfort food in a bowl.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Q1: How long do chicken drumsticks take in the Instant Pot?
Usually 10–12 minutes on High pressure.
Q2: Can I cook frozen drumsticks in the Instant Pot?
Yes, add 3–5 extra minutes.
Q3: Do I need to brown drumsticks first?
Optional, but it adds extra flavor.
Q4: How do I keep drumsticks from drying out?
Use enough liquid and allow natural pressure release.
Q5: Are Instant Pot chicken drumsticks healthy?
Yes, they’re high in protein and require less oil.
Conclusion
Chicken drumstick recipes Instant Pot style are the ultimate combination of speed, flavor, and comfort. Whether you love spicy, sweet, or creamy dishes, these recipes prove that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. Toss in the ingredients, press a button, and let the magic happen.
Which Instant Pot chicken drumstick recipe will you try tonight?
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