Olivia Carter
Do you love the smoky and tangy flavor of BBQ chicken, but don’t have access to an outdoor grill? No worries! With an electric pressure cooker, you can still enjoy delicious and juicy BBQ chicken right in the comfort of your own kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking BBQ chicken in an electric pressure cooker, so you can satisfy your cravings any time of the year.
Why use an electric pressure cooker?
Electric pressure cookers are versatile kitchen appliances that can cook a wide range of dishes quickly and efficiently. They use high pressure and steam to lock in flavors and tenderize meats in a fraction of the time it takes traditional cooking methods. This means you can have perfectly cooked BBQ chicken in just minutes, instead of hours.
Before we dive into the recipe, here are a few tips to ensure your BBQ chicken turns out amazing:
1. Choose the right cut of chicken: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like drumsticks, thighs, or whole chicken. They will stay moist and tender during the cooking process.
2. Use your favorite BBQ sauce: Whether you prefer a sweet and smoky flavor or a spicy kick, choose a BBQ sauce that complements your taste buds. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own.
3. Add a liquid for moisture: To prevent dryness, add a liquid like broth, water, or beer to the pressure cooker. This will help infuse flavor and keep the chicken moist.
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge, let’s get cooking and whip up some finger-licking BBQ chicken in your electric pressure cooker!
Cooking BBQ Chicken in Electric Pressure Cooker
Using an electric pressure cooker is a convenient and efficient way to cook BBQ chicken. It allows you to achieve tender and flavorful chicken in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.
Follow these simple steps to cook BBQ chicken in your electric pressure cooker:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarters
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Season the chicken quarters with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Select the “saute” function on your electric pressure cooker and heat the olive oil.
- Place the chicken quarters in the cooker and brown them on both sides for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Add the water to the cooker and scrape any browned bits from the bottom to deglaze the pot.
- Place a trivet or steamer basket in the pot and arrange the chicken quarters on top.
- Pour the BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set the cooking time to 12 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Remove the chicken from the cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Optional: For a charred and smoky flavor, you can place the chicken on a preheated grill or under the broiler for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken cooked in the electric pressure cooker!
Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken
When it comes to cooking BBQ chicken in an electric pressure cooker, choosing the right cut of chicken is essential for a delicious and tender result. Here are a few popular cuts of chicken to consider:
1. Chicken Drumsticks: Drumsticks are a popular choice for BBQ chicken because they are flavorful and juicy. They also tend to have more fat, which helps keep the meat moist during cooking.
2. Chicken Thighs: Thighs are another great option for BBQ chicken. They have a higher fat content than chicken breasts, making them ideal for cooking in a pressure cooker. The dark meat of thighs is also more flavorful and tender.
3. Chicken Wings: If you’re looking for a finger-licking BBQ chicken appetizer, chicken wings are a fantastic choice. They are smaller in size but pack a big punch of flavor. Plus, the pressure cooker can make the meat so tender that it falls off the bone.
4. Chicken Breasts: While chicken breasts tend to be leaner than other cuts, they can still be used for BBQ chicken in an electric pressure cooker. However, it’s important to keep in mind that they have a tendency to dry out more easily. To prevent this, it’s recommended to use bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts to add moisture and flavor.
Whichever cut of chicken you choose, make sure it’s fresh, of good quality, and suitable for pressure cooking. Remember that each cut will have a slightly different cooking time, so adjust accordingly based on the recipe you’re following. Happy cooking!
Preparing the Chicken for Pressure Cooking
Before you start cooking your BBQ chicken in the electric pressure cooker, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken. This will ensure that the meat is tender, juicy, and flavorful.
1. Choose the Right Chicken
When selecting chicken for pressure cooking, it’s best to choose bone-in chicken pieces, such as drumsticks or chicken thighs. These cuts of chicken are more flavorful and will result in a better-tasting BBQ chicken.
2. Clean and Season the Chicken
Before cooking the chicken, rinse it under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Next, season the chicken with your favorite BBQ rub or spice blend. You can use a store-bought seasoning or make your own by combining spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Let the Chicken Marinate (Optional)
If you have time, you can marinate the chicken before pressure cooking it. This will help infuse the chicken with even more flavor. Simply place the seasoned chicken in a zip-top bag or a container with a lid. Pour your favorite BBQ sauce or marinade over the chicken, making sure it is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for even more flavor.
4. Trimming the Chicken (Optional)
Some people prefer to trim excess fat and skin from the chicken before cooking. This can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish and result in a healthier meal. If desired, use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken pieces.
5. Preparing the Pressure Cooker
Before you start cooking the chicken, make sure your electric pressure cooker is clean and in good working condition. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preparing the pressure cooker for use.
Also, make sure to add the necessary amount of liquid to the pressure cooker. For BBQ chicken, you can use water, chicken broth, or a combination of both. The liquid will help create steam, which is essential for pressure cooking.
It’s important to note that the amount of liquid will depend on the size of your pressure cooker. Typically, you’ll need about 1-2 cups of liquid for a 6-quart electric pressure cooker.
Now that you’ve properly prepared the chicken and your pressure cooker, you’re ready to start cooking delicious BBQ chicken in your electric pressure cooker!
Marinating the Chicken for Flavor
Marinating the chicken is an essential step to infuse it with delicious flavors. It helps to tenderize the meat and enhance its taste. Here are the steps to marinate the chicken:
- Clean the chicken thoroughly under running water and pat it dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, combine your choice of marinade ingredients. This can include a variety of seasonings such as garlic, onion, paprika, soy sauce, honey, or BBQ sauce. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to suit your taste.
- Place the chicken in a ziplock bag or a container with a lid. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure that it is completely coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors and become more flavorful and tender.
Note: Make sure to discard the marinade after marinating the chicken to avoid any cross-contamination when cooking.
Setting up the Electric Pressure Cooker
Before you start cooking BBQ chicken in your electric pressure cooker, it’s important to properly set up the appliance to ensure safe and efficient cooking. Here are a few steps to help you get started:
- Place the electric pressure cooker on a stable and heat-resistant surface. Make sure there is enough space around it for ventilation.
- Check the rubber sealing ring and ensure it is properly seated inside the lid. This ring helps to create an airtight seal during the cooking process.
- Attach the pressure cooker lid securely to the pot by aligning the arrows on the lid and handle. Twist clockwise until the lid locks into place.
- Make sure the pressure release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. This will prevent steam from escaping during cooking and help build up pressure inside the cooker.
- Plug in the electric pressure cooker and ensure it is connected to a reliable power source. Check if the display is functioning properly.
- Add a sufficient amount of liquid, such as water or chicken broth, to the cooker. This liquid is necessary to create steam and build pressure inside the pot. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended amount of liquid.
Once you have set up your electric pressure cooker, you are ready to start cooking delicious BBQ chicken. Follow the recipe and cooking instructions specific to your cooker model for the best results.
Cooking and Finishing the BBQ Chicken
After marinating the chicken, it’s time to cook it in the electric pressure cooker. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Preparing the Pressure Cooker
Make sure the electric pressure cooker is clean and in good working condition. Place the chicken and the marinade in the cooker’s pot.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to cook at high pressure for 8 minutes per pound of chicken. For example, if you have a 2-pound chicken, set the timer to 16 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure in the cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Step 3: Finishing the BBQ Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. While the chicken is resting, preheat your barbecue grill or oven broiler to high heat.
Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce on all sides, making sure to coat it evenly. Place the chicken on the grill or under the broiler and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the BBQ sauce caramelizes and forms a delicious glaze.
Remove the chicken from the grill or broiler and let it rest for another couple of minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender and juicy BBQ chicken.
Now you can enjoy your homemade BBQ chicken straight from the electric pressure cooker. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the delicious flavors!
FAQ
What is an electric pressure cooker?
An electric pressure cooker is a kitchen appliance that uses pressure to cook food quickly and efficiently. It works by trapping steam inside a sealed pot, which increases the pressure and raises the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook faster.
Can I cook BBQ chicken in an electric pressure cooker?
Yes, you can cook BBQ chicken in an electric pressure cooker. The pressure cooker will help to infuse the chicken with the flavors of the BBQ sauce, resulting in tender and delicious chicken.
