Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks – Juicy Flavor!

Looking for an easy, no-fail way to cook chicken drumsticks? This Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks recipe delivers juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken in just 30 minutes!

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a quick protein-packed meal, this dish is versatile, customizable, and packed with flavor.

Serve them crispy, saucy, or as-is, with rice, mashed potatoes, or veggies. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes!

✔ Juicy & Flavorful: Perfectly cooked drumsticks every time.

✔ Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and store for easy meals.

✔ Customizable: Choose from different seasonings and sauces.

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

For the Chicken:

• 6-8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

For the Dry Rub:

• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning or cajun seasoning (optional)

For Crispy Finish (Optional):

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for broiling)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or teriyaki glaze

Equipment You’ll Need

• Instant Pot (6qt or 8qt)
• Trivet or steamer rack (for even cooking)
• Tongs (for handling chicken)
• Baking sheet (for broiling, optional)

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1 – Prep the Chicken

• Pat drumsticks dry with a paper towel.
• Rub them with olive oil or butter, then coat with the dry rub seasoning.

Step 2 – Pressure Cook the Drumsticks

• Add chicken broth or water to the Instant Pot.
• Place the drumsticks on the trivet or steamer rack.
• Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 12 minutes (fresh) or 15 minutes (frozen).
• Let pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick release.

Step 3 – Crisp the Skin (Optional but Recommended!)

• Preheat oven broiler to 450°F (230°C).
• Transfer drumsticks to a baking sheet, brush with olive oil or sauce, and broil for 3-5 minutes until crispy.

Step 4 – Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds.
• Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Seasoning Variations

BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

• Brush with BBQ sauce after cooking and broil for extra caramelization.

Garlic Butter Drumsticks

• Melt butter with garlic and drizzle over drumsticks before serving.

Buffalo-Style Drumsticks

• Toss in buffalo sauce and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Ways to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks

✔ With Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – A comforting meal.

✔ Over Rice or Quinoa – A healthy, protein-packed dish.

✔ With Steamed Veggies – A light, low-carb option.

✔ As a Party Appetizer – Serve with dipping sauces!

Storage & Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.

How to Reheat Chicken Drumsticks

• Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, covering with a damp paper towel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cook Frozen Drumsticks in the Instant Pot?

Yes! Increase cooking time to 15 minutes on HIGH pressure.

How Can I Make the Skin Extra Crispy?

After pressure cooking, broil for 3-5 minutes or air-fry at 400°F for 5 minutes.

Can I Stack Chicken Drumsticks in the Instant Pot?

Yes! Arrange in layers, ensuring even spacing for better cooking.