Instant Pot Italian Chicken Drumsticks With Garlic and Thyme
Try this Instant Pot Italian Chicken Drumsticks With Garlic and Thyme recipe.
Try this Instant Pot Italian Chicken Drumsticks With Garlic and Thyme recipe.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
- zest of 1/4 lemon
- 8 cloves of garlic
- 1 1/2 red onions peeled halved and cut into wedges
- 8 chicken drumsticks (skin on)
- 1/4 teaspoon chilli powder or flakes (optional)
- handful of thyme sprigs or dried thyme leaves (abo
- 2/3 cup diced tinned tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons sweet balsamic vinegar (see notes)
- Carbohydrate 2.14159396634615 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0360541826923077 g
- Fiber 0.20581850532385 g
- Protein 0.403781610576923 g
- Saturated Fat 0.00696802884615385 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (7g)
- Sodium 1.10902884615385 mg
- Sugar 1.9357754610223 g
- Trans Fat 0.00987543269230769 g
- Calories 10 calories
Step-by-step
- Press the Sauté key on the Instant Pot (it should say Normal, 30 mins).
- Add the oil and once hot, add the onions and ½ teaspoon of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring a few times, until lightly golden.
- Add the chicken drumsticks and sprinkle with the rest of the salt, pepper and chilli, then add the thyme, lemon zest and whole garlic cloves.
- Follow with tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Spread ingredients evenly between the chicken drumsticks.
- Cancel the Sauté function by pressing Keep Warm/Cancel button.
- Place and lock the lid, make sure the steam releasing handle is pointing to Sealing.
- Press Poultry (High Pressure, 15 minutes).
- After 3 beeps the pressure cooker will start going.
- Once the timer goes off, allow the pressure to release for 2-3 minutes and then use the quick release method before opening the lid.
- Serve the chicken and the sauce over rice, pasta or potatoes or with a side of vegetables. I like to peel the meat off the bone and mix it in with the broth it cooked in.
Instant Pot Italian Chicken Drumsticks: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a constant uphill battle. Weeknights are a blur of school pick-ups, homework help, and the general chaos of family life. That's why I've become completely reliant on my Instant Pot – it's a lifesaver! This Instant Pot Italian Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a perfect example of how this amazing appliance can transform a simple weeknight meal into something truly special, without sacrificing precious time. The succulent, flavorful chicken practically cooks itself, leaving me with more time to focus on what really matters: my family.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a one-pot wonder, minimizing cleanup (another huge win for busy weeknights!). The combination of tender chicken drumsticks, aromatic garlic and thyme, and a touch of balsamic vinegar creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. My kids gobble this up faster than I can serve it. Honestly, the entire process, from prep to clean-up, takes less time than ordering takeout. And let's face it, takeout rarely matches this level of deliciousness and wholesome nutrition.
Beyond the Weeknight: This isn't just a weeknight hero; it’s also wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, while a dash of oregano brings a Mediterranean twist. You can also substitute other cuts of chicken, although drumsticks are my personal favorite for their juicy tenderness. Serve this over creamy polenta, alongside roasted vegetables or even a simple salad for a truly satisfying and complete meal.
Tips and Tricks for Instant Pot Success: One of the keys to perfectly cooked chicken in the Instant Pot is to ensure the chicken isn't overcrowded. If you're cooking a larger batch, consider using two batches to prevent steaming rather than browning. Remember, the natural pressure release is key to tender, juicy chicken; don’t rush the process. The longer you let the pressure release naturally the more tender your chicken will be. This seemingly small step makes a world of difference in the final result.
This recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy, flavorful meals don't have to be time-consuming. With a little planning and the help of a trusty Instant Pot, even the busiest of moms (like me!) can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals without the stress. So go ahead, try this recipe, and let me know how it turns out! I'm confident it will become a family favorite in your house too.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a side of roasted asparagus or green beans for a balanced dinner.
- Use the leftover sauce as a base for a pasta dish.
- Make it a complete meal by adding a simple green salad.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers.
- Use different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil.
- Add a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
- Make it spicier by adding more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Enjoy!
