In my quest for quick and convenient meals, my Instant Pot has become my new kitchen companion. There's something about the ease and efficiency of cooking with it that makes every meal enjoyable.
One-pot dishes have become my go-to, and today, I'm excited to share a recipe that not only requires minimal effort but also delivers a hearty and delicious family meal.

The Teriyaki Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a game-changer, especially for busy days when you can use frozen drumsticks straight from the freezer – no defrosting required! Paired with some steamed broccoli and a batch of rice, this recipe promises to be a family favorite in no time.
What's In This Recipe?
Chicken Drumsticks
Using frozen drumsticks not only adds convenience by eliminating the need for thawing but also ensures a juicy and succulent outcome. If you opt for fresh drumsticks, then you won't need to cook them as long.
Soy Sauce
Opting for reduced sodium soy sauce allows for better control over the dish's salt content. The soy sauce forms the base of the marinade, providing depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar brings sweetness to the Teriyaki sauce, balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce. Its caramel undertones contribute a delightful complexity to the marinade, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Garlic
The minced garlic infuses the marinade with its bold essence, creating a harmonious blend with the other ingredients. It is absolutely essential in this dish.
Ginger
Whether using powdered or fresh ginger, this ingredient imparts a distinct flavor that complements the other components. Fresh ginger can bring a zesty and vibrant note, while powdered ginger ensures convenience without compromising on taste.
Chicken Broth
The addition of chicken broth serves to enhance the overall liquid content of the Teriyaki sauce as enough liquid is essential to create steam so the Instant Pot can work. I prefer to use chicken broth instead of plain water as it introduces an extra layer of savory depth.
Ingredients:
- 10 frozen chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup soy sauce (opt for reduced sodium, or adjust if using regular)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger powder (or fresh if available)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
Step by Step Directions:
1. In a bowl or measuring cup, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger powder, and chicken broth (or water).

2. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Adjust the soy sauce quantity based on your preference for sodium levels.
3. Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the frozen chicken drumsticks on top. This elevates the chicken, preventing it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Drizzle the prepared Teriyaki sauce over the chicken drumsticks, ensuring each piece is well coated with the flavorful mixture.

5. Secure the Instant Pot lid and close the pressure valve. Select the Meat/Stew function and pressure cook for 40 minutes. The pressure inside the Instant Pot will work to infuse the flavors into the drumsticks while keeping them moist and tender.
6. Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release to release the pressure. You could stop here if you only want to make the chicken. To add cooked broccoli, continue to the next step.
7. When the initial cooking is complete at step 6, release the pressure, open the lid, and add some washed bite-sized broccoli.

8. Seal the Instant Pot again and pressure cook for an additional 1 minute. This quick and easy step adds vibrant color and nutritional value to your meal.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with vegetables and steamed rice for a complete meal.
With minimal prep and hands-on time, the Teriyaki Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks are a testament to the Instant Pot's culinary prowess.
Whether you're a newbie to this versatile kitchen gadget or a seasoned pro, this recipe will surely make its way into your regular meal rotation.
Enjoy the simplicity of cooking and the rich flavors of this delightful dish that brings the family together around a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Instant Pot Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
Equipment
Ingredients
- 10 frozen chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup soy sauce opt for reduced sodium, or adjust if using regular
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoons ginger powder or fresh if available
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions
- In a bowl or measuring cup, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger powder, and chicken broth (or water).
- Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Adjust the soy sauce quantity based on your preference for sodium levels.
- Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the frozen chicken drumsticks on top.
- Drizzle the prepared Teriyaki sauce over the chicken drumsticks, ensuring each piece is well coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Secure the Instant Pot lid and close the pressure valve. Select the Meat/Stew function and pressure cook for 40 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release to release the pressure. You could stop here if you only want to make the chicken. To add cooked broccoli, continue to the next step.
- When the initial cooking is complete at step 6, release the pressure, open the lid, and add some washed bite-sized broccoli.
- Seal the Instant Pot again and pressure cook for an additional 1 minute. This quick and easy step adds vibrant color and nutritional value to your meal.
Nutrition information is estimated and does not adhere to U.S. FDA NLEA guidelines.
