Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and juicy chicken dinner that practically makes itself, then these Instant Pot chicken drumsticks are about to become your new favorite go-to recipe. Chicken drumsticks are naturally tender and packed with flavor, and when cooked in the Instant Pot, they come out perfectly moist every single time. The combination of paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper creates a simple yet mouthwatering spice blend that enhances the chicken without overpowering it. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a speedy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something comforting and delicious about chicken drumsticks, but they can sometimes be tricky to cook — dry meat or uneven seasoning can easily ruin the experience. The Instant Pot solves both problems effortlessly by locking in moisture and allowing the spices to fully penetrate the chicken. This recipe requires minimal prep work and no frying, baking, or grilling, making it perfect for busy home cooks.

The spice blend of paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper gives the drumsticks a warm, savory flavor profile that pairs beautifully with almost any side dish. Plus, the pressure cooking method means you get tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken in a fraction of the time it takes to bake.

If you haven’t yet embraced the Instant Pot for chicken drumsticks, this recipe will change your mind. It’s simple, delicious, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks (skin on for best flavor and texture)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for crisping the skin after cooking)

How To Make Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, combine the paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until the seasoning is evenly mixed.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick better and improves the final texture. Rub the spice blend all over the drumsticks, coating each piece thoroughly.

Step 3: Add Liquid to the Instant Pot

Pour 1 cup of chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot. This liquid is essential for creating the steam pressure that cooks the chicken quickly and evenly.

Step 4: Arrange the Drumsticks in the Instant Pot

Place the drumsticks on the trivet or directly in the liquid, depending on your preference. Using the trivet keeps the chicken elevated and allows steam to circulate better, but cooking them directly in the liquid will result in a more braised texture.

Step 5: Cook Under Pressure

Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the Pressure Cook or Manual setting and set the timer for 10 minutes at high pressure. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 6: Optional – Crisp the Skin

If you prefer crispy skin, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the Instant Pot and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until the skin is golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken drumsticks hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Expert Tips

• Dry chicken skin before seasoning: Removing moisture from the skin helps the spice rub stick better and results in a better texture, especially if you choose to crisp the skin after pressure cooking.
• Use a trivet for best texture: Cooking the drumsticks on a trivet keeps them out of the broth, yielding meatier, less soggy chicken.
• Natural pressure release is key: Allowing the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes prevents the chicken from drying out.
• Customize your spice blend: Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for heat or some smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
• Check your Instant Pot model: Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your model, so adjust accordingly if needed.

Variations and Customizations

• BBQ Style: After cooking, brush the drumsticks with your favorite barbecue sauce and broil for 3-5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
• Lemon Herb: Add lemon zest and juice to the spice rub along with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Spicy Cajun: Mix in 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or chili powder with the existing spices for a bold, spicy kick.
• Asian-Inspired: Substitute the broth with chicken broth infused with ginger and garlic, and serve with a drizzle of soy sauce and sesame seeds after cooking.
• Slow Cooker Alternative: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can slow cook the seasoned drumsticks on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken drumsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through, which helps maintain the texture better than microwaving. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the skin crispy. For longer storage, freeze cooked drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks in this recipe?

Yes! You can cook chicken drumsticks from frozen in the Instant Pot. Increase the pressure cooking time to 15 minutes and allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, water works just fine. You can also use vegetable broth or a low-sodium broth alternative to keep the flavors balanced.

How do I make the chicken skin crispy without an oven?

After pressure cooking, heat a skillet with a bit of oil over medium-high heat and sear the drumsticks for 2-3 minutes on each side until the skin crisps up nicely.

Is it necessary to use the spice rub, or can I season differently?

The spice rub is recommended because it creates a balanced flavor, but you can absolutely experiment with your favorite herbs, spices, or marinades to tailor the taste to your preferences.

Conclusion

Instant Pot chicken drumsticks are an effortless, flavorful meal that can fit into any busy lifestyle. With a simple spice blend of paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, these drumsticks come out tender, juicy, and packed with savory goodness every time. The Instant Pot not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in moisture, giving you the perfect bite with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy them as-is, crisp the skin afterward, or customize with different seasonings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a delicious, fuss-free chicken dinner!