Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This recipe for Chicken Legs in the Instant Pot is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Forget dry, overcooked chicken – this method guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken legs every single time, ready in under 30 minutes. It's a perfect example of healthy meals made simple with homemade cooking, and it's one of the best recipes for anyone who appreciates delicious dishes and easy recipes.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and once hot, brown the chicken legs on all sides. This step adds incredible flavor. Remove the chicken and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. This adds depth of flavor to your sauce.
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Add Seasonings and Chicken: Stir in the paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the chicken legs to the pot.
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Pressure Cook: Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the liquid level is at least halfway up the chicken legs. Close the lid, making sure the valve is set to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 12 minutes.
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Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
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Serve: Remove the chicken legs from the pot and serve immediately. You can thicken the remaining sauce by simmering it on the "Sauté" function for a few minutes, or serve it as is. This quick dinner idea is perfect served with rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Juicy Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space between the chicken legs for even cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken legs: The bone and skin help keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken legs. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Instant Pot Chicken Legs recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a testament to the power of homemade cooking and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!