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Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

Juicy, seasoned chicken drumsticks cooked quickly in the Instant Pot and finished tossed in BBQ sauce.
Prep Time3 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time18 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika; toss the drumsticks in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
  • Pour 1/2 cup water or chicken broth into the Instant Pot and place the trivet or steaming rack inside if using.
  • Arrange the seasoned drumsticks on the trivet or directly in the liquid if not using a trivet.
  • Close the lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes.
  • Allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure; carefully open the lid.
  • Remove the drumsticks with tongs and place them in a bowl or on a tray, then toss evenly with 1 cup BBQ sauce before serving.

Equipment

  • Instant Pot or Electric Pressure Cooker
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring cup
  • Trivet or steaming rack (optional)

Notes

  • Substitute thighs or large wings if drumsticks are unavailable.
  • Add 1 tablespoon brown sugar to the spice mix for extra sweetness.
  • Use your favorite spice rub instead of the listed spices.
  • For heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the spices.