Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Look no further! With your Instant Pot, you can create a variety of delicious and flavorful chicken leg dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Instant Pot chicken leg recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, these recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic comfort food or an international-inspired dish, your taste buds will thank you. So grab your Instant Pot and get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Chicken Legs
Succulent chicken legs smothered in a sticky honey garlic sauce, cooked to perfection with the help of your Instant Pot. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken legs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the inner pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken legs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the honey mixture over the chicken legs, ensuring they are fully coated.
5. Add chicken broth to the pot, making sure the chicken is covered by about 1/2 inch of liquid.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press “MEAT/STEW” or “Manual Mode” for 10-12 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy!
Spicy Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Legs
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple and flavorful recipe for Spicy Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Legs. This spicy take on classic BBQ chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken legs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
4. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken legs.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEAL”. Cook on “MEAT/STEW” mode for 15 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Lemon Herb Chicken Legs
A bright and citrusy twist on traditional chicken legs, this recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken legs in a single layer, skin side up. Cook for 5 minutes, or until browned.
3. Add the lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including natural release)
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Legs
This recipe is a twist on traditional teriyaki chicken, using the convenience of an Instant Pot to cook fall-off-the-bone tender chicken legs. With its sweet and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chicken legs to the pot in a single layer.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the chicken legs.
4. Add water to the pot and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Creamy Mushroom Chicken Legs
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and creamy Instant Pot recipe, featuring chicken legs smothered in a savory mushroom sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the chicken legs to the pot, followed by the heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme.
5. Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-25 minutes
Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Legs
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken legs with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the paprika, cayenne pepper, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chicken legs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and close the lid.
7. Pressure cook on “High” for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped scallions and a side of your favorite Cajun-style rice and beans.
Instant Pot Greek-Style Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Greece with the convenience of the Instant Pot, resulting in tender and juicy chicken legs infused with feta cheese, kalamata olives, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add garlic, oregano, thyme, olives, and chicken legs. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Pressure cook at high pressure for 15 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot, then stir in feta cheese. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice (if using).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Instant Pot Soy Ginger Chicken Legs
Get ready for a deliciously savory and aromatic dish with this simple recipe using your Instant Pot. Soy ginger chicken legs are a perfect combination of Asian-inspired flavors and tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat it up.
2. Add sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
3. Add chicken legs and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour in water and close the lid. Make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Legs
Add a kick to your mealtime with this simple and flavorful recipe for Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Legs. Tender chicken legs smothered in spicy buffalo sauce, ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken legs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Frank’s RedHot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the chicken legs.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese crumbles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Chicken Legs
This recipe is a flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chicken legs, infused with the richness of coconut milk and the warmth of Indian spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chicken legs to the pot in a single layer. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields tender, smoky legs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken legs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 12-15 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (plus 10-minute natural release)
Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs
Ready in under 30 minutes, these Instant Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are a flavorful and satisfying meal for any day of the week. With minimal prep work and simple cooking instructions, you’ll be enjoying juicy and aromatic chicken legs with melted parmesan cheese in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken legs, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “Sealing”.
4. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Remove the chicken legs from the Instant Pot and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes (including natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Sweet and Sour Chicken Legs
Transform your chicken legs into a tangy and savory delight with this simple Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or party appetizer, this sweet and sour chicken legs dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Add the chicken legs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the sweet and sour mixture over the chicken legs in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Stir into the sauce in the Instant Pot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Instant Pot Mediterranean Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and tender Mediterranean-inspired recipe, cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the chicken legs to the pot, in a single layer if possible. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
5. Carefully open the lid, then transfer the chicken to a plate. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot Maple Dijon Chicken Legs
Transform chicken legs into a flavorful treat with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe combines the richness of maple syrup, tanginess of Dijon mustard, and tenderization from pressure cooking.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the olive oil, then brown the chicken legs in batches (about 3-4 minutes per batch). Remove the browned chicken from the pot.
3. In the same pot, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Return the chicken legs to the pot, making sure they’re coated with the glaze.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on “MANUAL” mode at high pressure for 12 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally (NPR) for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Instant Pot Thai Peanut Chicken Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make Instant Pot recipe that combines chicken legs, creamy peanut sauce, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish!
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken legs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Pour the peanut sauce over the chicken legs in the Instant Pot.
5. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Ranch Chicken Legs
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and delicious Instant Pot recipe! Tender chicken legs smothered in creamy ranch goodness are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning (dry or mix with sour cream/mayo)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt the butter.
2. Add the chicken legs in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping.
3. Sprinkle ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the chicken is covered.
5. Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing”, and press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 12-15 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that yields tender, juicy legs smothered in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the chicken legs and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned on all sides.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the glaze over the chicken legs, then sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
6. Release any remaining pressure and open the lid. Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (10 minutes cooking + 5 minutes natural release)
Instant Pot Pineapple Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken dinner game with this easy and flavorful Instant Pot recipe! Juicy chicken legs are infused with the sweetness of pineapple and spices, making it a perfect meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken legs in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pineapple chunks, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken legs.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (includes natural pressure release)
Instant Pot Herb Butter Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken leg game with this flavorful and tender recipe that combines the richness of butter, herbs, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and melt butter with olive oil.
2. Add garlic, thyme, and rosemary; cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
3. Add chicken legs in a single layer; season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth; close lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes + 10-minute natural release.
6. Quick-release any remaining pressure; open lid and remove chicken.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight meals with these 20 mouthwatering Instant Pot chicken leg recipes! From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, there’s something for everyone. Try making Honey Garlic Chicken Legs, Spicy BBQ Chicken Legs, or Creamy Mushroom Chicken Legs. Or go international with Teriyaki, Cajun, or Thai Peanut flavors. Each recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy families or meal prep, these Instant Pot chicken leg recipes are sure to become new favorites. Dive in and discover your new go-to dishes!
