Name: Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 chicken legs, thawed with skins on; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; ¾ tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 ½ tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 1 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (cornstarch slurry)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting dinner that comes together quickly but doesn’t skimp on flavor, then you’re going to love this Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe. Picture juicy, tender chicken legs cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, sealed in all those delicious juices, then finished off under the broiler for that irresistible crispy skin. Add a luscious, homemade gravy made from the flavorful cooking liquid, and you have a dish that feels both elegant and completely satisfying, perfect for any weeknight or casual get-together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A speckled white round plate holds seven raw chicken drumsticks that are pale pink with smooth skin and light fat showing. Around the plate are six small white speckled bowls: one with thick white yogurt, one with light brown sauce, one with a dollop of pale yellow mayonnaise, one with golden yellow oil, and one with a mix of red, green, white, and black spices arranged in small piles on the surface. All bowls and plate are set on a white marbled textured surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with ingredients that you likely have on hand and each one plays a vital role. From the spices that build a warm, aromatic coating to the chicken broth that transforms into a rich, silky gravy, every component contributes layers of taste, texture, and color.

Chicken legs, skins on: The star of the show, providing juicy meat and crispy skin when broiled.
Paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with deep, savory notes.
Ground black pepper: Offers a subtle heat that brightens the flavors.
Dried parsley: Brings a hint of herbal freshness.
Sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the dish.
Olive oil: Helps the spices cling and aids in browning the skin.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the base of the rich, luscious gravy.
Butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the gravy.
Cornstarch mixed with water: The magic thickener turning cooking liquids into velvety gravy.

How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by giving those chicken legs a good rinse and patting them dry. This is important to get your skin nice and crispy later. Next, mix paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and sea salt into the olive oil to create a flavorful paste. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken, making sure every piece is well-coated for maximum taste.

Step 2: Set Up Your Instant Pot

Pour the chicken broth into the steel insert of your Instant Pot and place the trivet inside. The broth not only adds moisture but also forms the base for your gravy later on. Stack the seasoned chicken legs on the trivet—this keeps them out of the liquid so they cook evenly without getting soggy.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Drumsticks

Secure the lid and set the pressure valve to sealing. Hit the high pressure cook button and set the timer to 10 minutes. This method ensures your chicken becomes tender and juicy, locking in all those savory juices.

Step 4: Pressure Release and Prep for Broiling

When the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully open the lid. Move the chicken onto a greased baking sheet and remove the trivet. Don’t throw away the liquid left behind—that’s the key to your gravy!

Step 5: Broil for Crispy Skin

Preheat your oven’s broiler on high and place the tray of drumsticks on the middle rack. Let them broil for 4-5 minutes until the skin turns gorgeous golden brown and crisps up beautifully. This finishing touch elevates the texture from tender to downright crave-worthy.

Step 6: Make the Rich Gravy

While the chicken crisps up, switch your Instant Pot to the sauté function and bring the cooking liquid back to a gentle boil. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and watch the sauce thicken into a glossy gravy in just a couple of minutes. Stir in the butter for extra richness before transferring it to a serving bowl.

How to Serve Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe

The image shows a white round plate filled with a thick layer of creamy mashed potatoes, light yellow in color with a smooth and slightly lumpy texture. On top of the mashed potatoes, there are two grilled chicken drumsticks, dark brown with crispy edges and a shiny glaze of sauce. Small green herb flakes are sprinkled over both the potatoes and chicken. A silver spoon is placed on the edge of the plate, touching the food. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a light beige cloth partially visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled over the top add a bright, fresh contrast and a pop of color. A few lemon wedges on the side can bring a pleasant zing that cuts through the richness if you want to brighten each bite even more.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up every bit of that luscious gravy. For a lighter touch, consider a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the drumsticks family-style on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of gravy for dipping, perfect for casual gatherings. Or plate each portion individually on elegant dishes with a drizzled pool of gravy to impress your guests without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and gravy separate if possible to maintain the crispiness of the skin.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and gravy separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven to help crisp the skin back up—around 350°F for 10-15 minutes works great. Warm the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and silky again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe?

Yes, you can start with frozen drumsticks. Just increase the pressure cook time to about 15 minutes and ensure the chicken is fully thawed before broiling for crispy skin.

What if I don’t have a broiler, can I get crispy skin another way?

If you don’t have a broiler, a hot skillet with a little oil or a quick blast in an air fryer can help crisp the skin after pressure cooking. Just watch carefully to avoid burning.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on thighs work wonderfully with this recipe and will be just as juicy and flavorful. Adjust the broiling time slightly if needed to get the skin crispy.

Is it necessary to use the trivet in the Instant Pot?

Yes, the trivet keeps the chicken elevated above the broth, allowing it to steam and stay intact without boiling in the liquid, which is key for the texture and later crisping stage.

How thick should the cornstarch slurry be for the gravy?

A smooth mixture of 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water creates a perfect consistency to thicken the gravy without lumps. Stir it in slowly and cook until it thickens beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I really can’t recommend this Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks with Crispy Skin and Rich Gravy Recipe enough. It’s a true weeknight hero, delivering juicy meat with that crave-worthy crispy skin and gravy that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re feeding family or treating yourself, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try soon—you won’t be disappointed!