Keto Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks
Tender, juicy chicken drumsticks cooked quickly in the Instant Pot with a simple seasoning blend, then finished under the broiler for crispy, golden skin. This two-step method delivers perfectly cooked chicken with the best of both worlds - moist meat from pressure cooking and crispy exterior from broiling. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want flavorful chicken without the long roasting time. The basic spice rub of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika creates a well-balanced flavor that appeals to the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt in a mixing bowl
- 2
Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels and place in mixing bowl
- 3
Using clean hands, spread seasoning evenly onto chicken legs
- 4
Preheat oven to broil setting
- 5
Place trivet and water into Instant Pot
- 6
Place seasoned chicken onto trivet and cover
- 7
Turn valve to sealing and set to high pressure for 15 minutes
- 8
Perform quick release when cooking time is complete
- 9
Place cooked chicken legs onto wire rack-lined baking sheet
- 10
Broil for 3-4 minutes until golden brown
- 11
Serve hot
Tips
Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning to help spices adhere better and achieve crispier skin during broiling.
Use a wire rack on the baking sheet when broiling to allow air circulation for even browning.
Watch closely during broiling as chicken can go from golden to burnt quickly under high heat.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked drumsticks up to 3 days in covered container
Season chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate
Best served immediately while skin is crispy
Common Mistakes
Don't skip quick release or chicken will overcook from residual pressure
Avoid opening Instant Pot valve manually during cooking to prevent steam burns
Don't broil too long or skin will burn while meat stays tough
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I cook frozen chicken drumsticks in the Instant Pot?
Yes, add 5 more minutes to cooking time and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F before broiling.
What if I don't have a wire rack for broiling?
Place drumsticks directly on baking sheet but turn once halfway through broiling for even browning.
How long will these keep in the refrigerator?
Cooked drumsticks stay fresh up to 3 days refrigerated in covered container. Reheat in oven to restore crispiness.