Master the Art of Pressure Cooking: A Foolproof Guide to Perfectly Tender Chicken Legs

There’s nothing quite like the smell of dinner cooking in a pressure cooker. Not only does this appliance speed up the cooking process, but it also helps to lock in flavor and tenderness. And if there’s one dish that truly shines in a pressure cooker, it’s chicken legs. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this protein-packed meal. In this article, we’ll cover all the tips and tricks you need to know to make perfect chicken legs every time using your pressure cooker. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this foolproof method!

Cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker can be a game changer for any home cook. Not only does it save time, but it also ensures that the meat is tender and juicy every time. Pressure cooking also retains the flavor of the chicken legs, making them more delicious and nutritious. Plus, using a pressure cooker is also more energy efficient compared to other cooking methods. If you’re new to pressure cooking or looking for new ways to cook chicken legs, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker.

Why Use a Pressure Cooker?

Before we dive into the details of how to cook chicken legs in a pressure cooker, let’s first understand why it is an excellent choice for cooking this particular type of meat. The main reason for using a pressure cooker is its ability to cook food faster than traditional methods. A pressure cooker cooks food under high pressure and traps steam, which allows it to reach higher temperatures quickly. As a result, it cuts down on cooking time significantly.

When it comes to chicken legs, using a pressure cooker also helps in keeping the meat moist and tender. The high heat and moist environment created by the trapped steam help break down tough fibers in the meat, resulting in perfectly cooked and juicy chicken legs every time. Additionally, using a pressure cooker for cooking chicken legs also saves energy as it uses less water and cooks food faster.

Preparing Chicken Legs for Pressure Cooking

Now that you know why using a pressure cooker is beneficial let’s move on to preparing your chicken legs before putting them in the pot.

1) Start by cleaning the chicken legs under cold water.
2) Pat them dry with paper towels.
3) Trim off any excess fat or skin from the chicken legs.
4) You can choose to marinate your chicken legs if you prefer. This step is optional, but it can add more flavor to your dish.
5) If you decide to marinate, make sure to do it at least 30 minutes before cooking and keep it in the fridge.
6) Once the chicken legs are cleaned and prepped, they are ready to be cooked in the pressure cooker.

Steps for Cooking Chicken Legs in a Pressure Cooker

The beauty of using a pressure cooker is that there are not many steps involved. It’s a simple process that delivers fantastic results every time. Here’s how you can cook chicken legs in a pressure cooker:

1) Heat up your pressure cooker on medium-high heat.
2) Add a tablespoon of oil to the pot and wait for it to become hot.
3) Carefully place your chicken legs into the pot. You may need to do this in batches so as not to overcrowd the pot.
4) Brown each side of the chicken legs for 2-3 minutes, until they have a golden-brown color.
5) Once all the chicken legs are browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
6) Add aromatics such as onions, garlic, or herbs to the pot (optional).
7) Pour in liquid such as broth, stock, wine or water to help create steam inside the pot.
8) Place a trivet inside the pot. This will keep the chicken legs from sticking to the bottom of the pot and allow them to cook evenly.
9) Carefully place the browned chicken legs on top of the trivet.
10) Put on the lid and seal it tightly.
11) Set your pressure cooker on high heat and wait for it to reach high pressure. You will know it has reached this level when steam begins escaping from the valve or when an indicator pops up.

Cooking Time and Release Methods

Now that your pressure cooker has reached high pressure, it’s time to start cooking your chicken legs. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your chicken legs. As a rule of thumb, you can cook them for 8 minutes on high pressure for small or average sized chicken legs and 10 minutes for larger ones. If you are cooking frozen chicken legs, add an extra minute to the cooking time.

Once the cooking time is up, you have two options for releasing the pressure in your cooker:

1) Natural Release: In this method, you let the pressure release naturally by leaving the valve closed. This can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes depending on your unit.
2) Quick Release: If you are short on time, you can use the quick release method. To do this, carefully turn the valve to release the pressure manually.

Once all the steam is released, open the lid and check if your chicken legs are fully cooked with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F.

Serving and Storing Chicken Legs

Take out your perfectly cooked chicken legs from the pot and serve them hot with your preferred sides. You can also

When it comes to cooking delicious meals, chicken is a versatile and popular choice. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and can be cooked in many different ways. One method that has gained popularity in recent years is using a pressure cooker to cook chicken legs. Not only does this cut down on cooking time, but it also helps to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the chicken. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker.

What is a Pressure Cooker?

A pressure cooker is a sealed pot that uses steam and high pressure to cook food quickly. By applying heat and pressure, the boiling point of water increases, which speeds up the cooking process. This ingenious invention has been around for centuries but has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its efficiency and convenience.

Why Use a Pressure Cooker for Chicken Legs?

Traditionally, cooking chicken legs would involve either baking or frying them until they are golden and crispy on the outside. However, these methods can often lead to dry and tough meat on the inside. By utilizing a pressure cooker, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken legs in a fraction of the time it takes for traditional cooking methods.

Furthermore, when using a pressure cooker, you don’t have to worry about constantly monitoring and flipping over the chicken legs as they cook. The heat distribution within the cooker ensures even cooking throughout.

The Preparation Process

Before diving into how to cook chicken legs in a pressure cooker, let’s talk about the preparation process first. Start by selecting fresh or thawed chicken legs; frozen ones will not yield desirable results when cooked under high pressure. Rinse them well with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

Next, you can choose whether you want to season your chicken legs or marinate them before cooking. Some popular seasoning options for chicken legs include garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you choose to marinate the chicken, do it for at least an hour before cooking or overnight for maximum flavor.

Steps to Cook Chicken Legs in a Pressure Cooker

1. Pour about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil into the pressure cooker and heat on medium-high until hot.

2. Carefully place the chicken legs into the cooker, making sure not to overcrowd them.

3. Brown the chicken legs on each side for about 3-4 minutes until they have a golden crust.

4. Remove the chicken legs from the cooker and set them aside.

5. Add any additional ingredients, such as onions or garlic, to the cooker and sauté for a few minutes until they are fragrant.

6. Return the chicken legs back to the cooker on top of the onions or garlic.

7. Pour in desired liquid (ex: chicken broth or water) to just cover the bottom of the cooker.

8. Secure and lock the lid of your pressure cooker according to its manufacturer’s instructions.

9. Set your pressure cooker valve to ‘closed’ or ‘sealed’ position.

10. Turn heat up to high and wait until it reaches high pressure then reduce to low heat to maintain that pressure for about 10-12 minutes depending on size of chicken legs and amount of meat in your pot recipe liquid.

11. Once done cooking, turn off heat completely and allow pressure inside release naturally until pin drops (about 5-10 min.).

12. Unlock lid as per manufacture instructions; use caution when doing so as steam within is extremely hot!

13. Use tongs to carefully remove cooked chicken legs from pressure cooking device onto plate or cooling rack; let sit covered loosely with foil.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Legs

1. To prevent the chicken legs from sticking to the bottom of the pressure cooker, make sure to brown them first before adding any liquid.

2. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the cooking liquid can help tenderize the meat even more.

3. Do not overfill your pressure cooker; make sure to leave enough space for the steam to circulate during cooking.

4. The general rule of thumb for pressure cooking chicken legs is 10 minutes for every inch of thickness. If your chicken legs are thicker, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

5. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pressure cooker model and make sure to release all pressure before opening the lid.

Ways to Serve Pressure Cooked Chicken Legs

Once your chicken legs are cooked, you have many options for serving them. Here are a few ideas:

1. Serve as is with some steamed veggies and rice or potatoes on the side.
2. Shred or chop up the chicken meat and use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, sandwiches, salads, or even pizza.
3. Use it in soups, stews, or casseroles.
4. Toss with

Q: What is the advantage of using a pressure cooker to cook chicken legs?
A: Pressure cooking can significantly reduce cooking time, making it perfect for busy cooks. The high pressure also helps to retain moisture, resulting in tender and juicy chicken legs.

Q: Do I need to add water when cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker?
A: Yes, adding liquid is essential when pressure cooking chicken legs. It helps to create steam and maintain the required pressure level, ensuring the meat cooks evenly.

Q: How long does it take to cook chicken legs in a pressure cooker?
A: The cooking time varies depending on the size and type of pressure cooker you are using. However, on average, it takes about 10-12 minutes for boneless chicken legs and 15-18 minutes for bone-in chicken legs.

Q: Can I add seasoning or marinade before cooking the chicken legs in a pressure cooker?
A: Yes, seasoning or marinating the chicken before cooking adds flavor to the meat. However, be mindful of adding too much liquid as it may affect the pressure level and result in unevenly cooked meat.

Q: Is it safe to open a pressure cooker immediately after cooking chicken legs?
A: No, it is not safe to open a pressure cooker right after cooking. The steam inside is still under high-pressure and can cause burns. Allow the pressure indicator to drop down completely before opening the lid.

Q: How can I make sure my chicken legs are fully cooked?
A: To ensure your chicken legs are fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Alternatively, you can also check if the meat is easily falling off the bone.

In conclusion, cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker is a quick, convenient, and delicious method that can be utilized in any kitchen. By following the simple steps and tips discussed, one can achieve tender and juicy chicken legs in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. The pressure cooker not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps to retain the flavors and nutrients of the chicken. Additionally, it reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses by ensuring that the chicken is cooked thoroughly. Furthermore, with a variety of recipes and seasonings available, there are endless possibilities for creating flavorful and healthy meals using this cooking technique. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, utilizing a pressure cooker for cooking chicken legs is a game-changer. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you! Remember to always follow safety precautions while using a pressure cooker and experiment with different recipes to find your perfect flavor combination. With this method in your kitchen toolkit, enjoying succulent chicken legs has never been easier.

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.