(GUIDE) How To Cook Chicken Legs In Pressure Cooker?

Cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker is a convenient and efficient way to prepare a delicious and flavorful meal. Pressure cooking locks in moisture and flavors while significantly reducing cooking time. Whether you’re looking for tender and juicy chicken legs for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing recipe for a special occasion, using a pressure cooker is a game-changer.

This comprehensive guide will take you through the process of cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker, covering preparation tips, cooking times, optimal techniques, troubleshooting, and variations to add flavor and excitement to your dish.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Chicken Legs In Pressure Cooker

The cooking time for chicken legs in a pressure cooker will vary depending on the specific recipe, the size of the chicken legs, and the desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, chicken legs usually require approximately 8 to 10 minutes of cooking time under pressure.

Preparation

Before cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker, there are a few important steps to take:

1. Thaw the chicken legs: If using frozen chicken legs, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking. This can be done by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the defrost function on your microwave.
2. Season the chicken legs: Season the chicken legs with your desired spices and seasonings. This can be as simple as salt and pepper or a more elaborate blend of herbs and spices. Allow the seasoning to sit on the chicken legs for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
3. Prepare the liquid: Add liquid to the pressure cooker to create steam and maintain the necessary pressure. Common options include chicken broth, water, or a mixture of both. Aim for about 1 cup of liquid, but adjust the amount based on your recipe and pressure cooker instructions.

Pressure Cooker Basics For Chicken Legs

Using a pressure cooker requires understanding a few key components and techniques:

1. The lid: The lid of the pressure cooker must be properly sealed during cooking to create the necessary pressure. Ensure the rubber gasket is clean and in good condition before placing the lid on the pressure cooker.
2. The valve: Pressure cookers have a pressure release valve that regulates pressure and releases excess steam. This valve must be in the proper position for pressure cooking.
3. Pressure release methods: There are two main methods to release pressure after cooking: natural release and quick release. Natural release allows pressure to decrease naturally over time, while quick release involves manually releasing steam using the pressure release valve. The method you choose depends on your recipe and desired results.
4. Safety precautions: Always read and follow the instructions provided with your pressure cooker to ensure safe operation. Avoid overfilling the pressure cooker, as this can lead to dangerous situations. Additionally, never open the pressure cooker until all pressure has been released.

Cook Times For Chicken Legs In Pressure Cooker

The recommended cooking time for chicken legs in a pressure cooker varies depending on the size of the legs, the level of tenderness desired, and whether bone-in or boneless chicken is being used. Here is a general guideline for cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker:

• Bone-in chicken legs: Cook for 8 to 10 minutes under pressure. For more tender meat and falling-off-the-bone results, increase the cooking time to 12 to 15 minutes.
• Boneless chicken legs: Cook for 5 to 8 minutes under pressure. Boneless chicken legs cook faster than bone-in legs, so be cautious not to overcook them.

Keep in mind that these cooking times are approximate and may vary depending on the specific pressure cooker being used. It is crucial to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for precise cooking times and safety guidelines.

How To Cook Chicken Legs In Pressure Cooker

Now that you have a general understanding of the preparation and cooking times for chicken legs in a pressure cooker, let’s dive into the step-by-step process:

1. Add liquid to the pressure cooker: Pour about 1 cup of liquid (e.g., chicken broth, water) into the pressure cooker. This will create the necessary steam and maintain pressure during cooking.
2. Place the chicken legs in the pressure cooker: Arrange the seasoned chicken legs in a single layer in the pressure cooker. Be mindful not to overcrowd the cooker, as this can affect the cooking time and results.
3. Seal the pressure cooker: Place the lid on the pressure cooker and ensure it is properly sealed, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Set the cooking time: Select the appropriate cooking time for your chicken legs based on their size, tenderness desired, and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or the general guideline mentioned earlier.
5. Start the pressure cooker: Turn on the heat and bring the pressure cooker to full pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves heating the cooker until it reaches the desired pressure level, indicated by a pressure valve popping up, steam escaping, or a built-in pressure indicator.
6. Cook under pressure: Once the pressure cooker has reached full pressure, start the timer and allow the chicken legs to cook for the recommended cooking time.
7. Release the pressure: After the cooking time has elapsed, release the pressure using your desired method. Either use the natural release method by allowing the pressure to decrease over time or opt for quick release by manually releasing steam through the pressure release valve. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pressure cooker model.
8. Check doneness: Carefully open the pressure cooker and check the internal temperature of the chicken legs using a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the chicken leg should reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If further cooking is needed, you can return the chicken legs to the pressure cooker for a few more minutes.

Optimal Pressure Cooking Techniques For Chicken Legs

To achieve the best results when cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker, consider the following tips and techniques:

1. Searing the chicken legs: For an added depth of flavor, sear the chicken legs in a hot skillet or directly in the pressure cooker before starting the pressure cooking process. This will create a beautiful golden brown color and enhance the taste of the final dish.
2. Browning in the pressure cooker: Some modern pressure cookers offer a browning or sauté function, allowing you to brown the chicken legs directly in the pressure cooker before pressure cooking. This saves time and reduces the need for extra pans.
3. Using the trivet: Placing a trivet or a steamer basket in the pressure cooker can elevate the chicken legs, preventing them from sticking to the bottom or sitting directly in the liquid. This promotes even cooking and keeps the chicken legs moist.
4. Adding aromatics and vegetables: Enhance the flavors of your chicken legs by adding aromatic herbs, spices, and vegetables directly to the pressure cooker. This will infuse the chicken legs with delicious notes while creating a flavorful cooking liquid.
5. Broiling or air frying for crispy skin: After pressure cooking, if you desire crispy skin on your chicken legs, you can transfer them to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven or use an air fryer for a few minutes. This step adds a delightful crispy texture to the dish.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues when cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker, here are some common troubleshooting tips:

1. Chicken legs are not tender enough: If the chicken legs are not as tender as desired after the recommended cooking time, you can return them to the pressure cooker for a few more minutes under pressure. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to overly dry meat.
2. Insufficient liquid: If you receive a "Burn" or "Food Burn" error from your pressure cooker, it may indicate that there is insufficient liquid in the cooker. Ensure that you have added enough liquid before starting the cooking process.
3. Adjusting the seasoning: If you find that the seasoning of the chicken legs is not as flavorful as desired, you can always add more seasonings to the cooking liquid after pressure cooking. Simply unlock the lid, adjust your seasonings, and continue cooking for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations And Flavoring Options

While pressure cooking chicken legs alone can yield delicious results, there are numerous variations and flavoring options to explore. Here are a few ideas to enhance the taste and appeal of your dish:

1. BBQ chicken legs: After pressure cooking the chicken legs, baste them with your favorite barbecue sauce and finish them under the broiler or on the grill for a smoky and caramelized flavor.
2. Asian-inspired chicken legs: Prepare a marinade using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. Marinate the chicken legs for at least 30 minutes before pressure cooking, then garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.
3. Lemon and herb chicken legs: Season the chicken legs with fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and a blend of Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. This combination will infuse the chicken legs with bright and aromatic flavors.
4. Spicy chicken legs: Coat the chicken legs in a mixture of chili powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper for a kick of spice. For an extra layer of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cooking liquid.
5. Creamy chicken legs: After pressure cooking, switch to the sauté function and stir in a creamy sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Simmer the chicken legs in the sauce for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

Feel free to experiment with different spices, herbs, sauces, and cooking techniques to find the flavors that appeal to your taste buds. The versatility of pressure cooking allows for endless possibilities in creating delicious chicken leg dishes.

In conclusion, cooking chicken legs in a pressure cooker is a convenient and efficient method that produces tender, juicy, and flavorful results in a fraction of the time. With proper preparation, cooking times, and techniques, you can enjoy a variety of delicious chicken leg dishes that will please family and friends alike. So, dust off your pressure cooker and get ready to elevate your chicken leg cooking game to new heights!

FAQS

How Long Does It Take To Cook Chicken Legs In A Pressure Cooker?

The cooking time for chicken legs in a pressure cooker is generally 10-12 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural release of 5-10 minutes.

What Is The Recommended Liquid Amount For Cooking Chicken Legs In A Pressure Cooker?

It is important to have enough liquid in the pressure cooker to create the steam needed for cooking. For chicken legs, 1 cup of liquid is recommended.

Should I Use A Trivet When Cooking Chicken Legs In A Pressure Cooker?

Using a trivet or steamer basket can help prevent the chicken legs from sticking to the bottom of the pressure cooker. It also allows for more even cooking.

Can I Cook Frozen Chicken Legs In A Pressure Cooker?

Yes, it is safe to cook frozen chicken legs in a pressure cooker. However, it may take longer to come to pressure and the cooking time may need to be increased by a few minutes.

How Can I Ensure That The Chicken Legs Are Fully Cooked In The Pressure Cooker?

The internal temperature of chicken should reach 165°F to be considered fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken legs before serving.