Easy Instant Pot Honey Chicken Drumsticks

These Easy Instant Pot Honey Chicken Drumsticks are sweet, sticky, and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re a hands-off dinner that the whole family will love.

If you’re craving tender, flavorful chicken that practically melts in your mouth, these Easy Instant Pot Honey Chicken Drumsticks are a game-changer.

Sweet honey, savory seasonings, and a touch of garlic create a sticky, irresistible glaze that coats each drumstick perfectly. Best part? The Instant Pot does most of the work, making this a quick, hands-off dinner that’s ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing chicken dish without the fuss.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick & Easy: The Instant Pot cooks drumsticks in record time, saving you hours in the kitchen.
• Tender & Juicy: Pressure cooking locks in moisture, giving perfectly succulent chicken every time.
• Sweet & Savory Flavor: The honey glaze balances sweetness with a touch of savory seasoning for irresistible taste.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pot does it all, so less scrubbing and more enjoying.
• Family-Friendly: Kid-approved, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken Drumsticks, fresh or fully thawed for cooking
• Yellow Onions, peeled and sliced for savory flavor
• Minced Garlic, fresh or jarred for aromatic taste
• Salt, to season chicken and enhance overall flavor
• Black Pepper, freshly ground for mild heat and spice
• Honey, adds natural sweetness and glossy coating
• Soy Sauce, for salty umami depth in sauce
• Chicken Broth, liquid base to keep chicken moist
• Olive Oil, for searing and adding rich flavor

How To Make Instant Pot Honey Chicken Drumsticks

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, salt, black pepper, honey, and soy sauce. Add the chicken drumsticks, toss to coat, and let marinate for about 1 hour to maximize flavor.

Step 2: Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onions and cook for about 2 minutes, or until softened.

Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and any remaining marinade. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Add the marinated chicken drumsticks to the Instant Pot. Secure the lid and lock it in place. Set to high pressure for 30 minutes. Manually release the pressure, carefully remove the lid, and transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, plate, and enjoy!

Instant Pot Honey Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Tips

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken soak in the honey-soy-garlic marinade for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, to really infuse the flavors.
• Brown the Onions: Sautéing the onions before pressure cooking adds depth and sweetness to the sauce, boosting overall flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the drumsticks evenly in the Instant Pot so they cook consistently and the sauce can circulate.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
• Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you like a thicker glaze, remove the chicken after cooking and set the Instant Pot to sauté to reduce the sauce slightly before serving.
• Check Internal Temperature: For perfectly cooked chicken, ensure drumsticks reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.
• Serve Immediately: The chicken is best enjoyed fresh, though leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated without losing much flavor.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the drumsticks’ texture.
• Freezing: Arrange cooled drumsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, then store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave on medium power for 2–3 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to maintain crispy edges and keep the chicken juicy.

Instant Pot Honey Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks? Yes! You can cook frozen drumsticks in the Instant Pot. Increase the cooking time slightly and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How long should I marinate the chicken? About 1 hour is ideal to let the honey, garlic, and seasonings penetrate. If you’re short on time, even 20–30 minutes will add flavor.

Can I make this recipe without honey? Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the sauce from burning in the Instant Pot? Always deglaze the pot after sautéing onions and before adding the chicken. This prevents the “burn” warning and ensures a smooth sauce.

Can I double the recipe? Yes! Just make sure the drumsticks fit in a single layer if possible, and you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to maintain pressure.

Can I serve this with sides? Absolutely! These drumsticks pair perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.

More Easy Instant Pot Recipes

• NINJA FOODI CHICKEN PAD THAI
• INSTANT POT CHICKEN FAJITA PASTA
• INSTANT POT BUFFALO CHICKEN QUESADILLAS
• EASY INSTANT POT CHICKEN PICCATA
• INSTANT POT CHICKEN FRIED RICE

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