If you love crispy chicken wings that are juicy inside, these Instant Pot Chicken Wings are a must-try! They cook up quickly and are perfect for any game day or snack time.
What I really appreciate is how you can go from zero to delicious wings in no time at all. Plus, they’re great with your favorite dipping sauce—who can resist that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings are the star here! If you can’t find wings, drumsticks or thighs work as a tasty substitute, though cooking times may vary.
Seasonings: The blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika creates great flavor. If you want something less spicy, omit the smoked paprika, or use mild paprika instead for a milder taste.
Chicken Broth: I use chicken broth for moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, low-sodium broth works well. Vegetable broth is a great choice for a vegetarian alternative.
Wing Sauce: The sauce you choose can change the whole dish! Buffalo, BBQ, or teriyaki are all popular. For a healthier option, try a homemade sauce or even a spice rub to skip the extra calories.
Olive Oil: Drizzling olive oil before baking helps get those crispy wings. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter, depending on your preference.
How Do I Get the Wings Extra Crispy?
Crispy chicken wings require a little extra effort, but it’s worth it! After using the Instant Pot, pop them in the oven to add that golden crunch.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cooked wings in your favorite wing sauce before baking. This ensures they soak up flavor.
- Spread the wings out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Drizzle with olive oil for added crispness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning. Flip halfway if you want an even crisp.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup your favorite wing sauce (e.g., buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or teriyaki sauce)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for optional crisping)
For Serving:
- Fresh vegetables (carrots, celery)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook in the Instant Pot, plus additional time (about 10-15 minutes) if you choose to crisp the wings in the oven. Get ready for some quick and tasty chicken wings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by taking the chicken wings and placing them in a large bowl. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika over the wings. Now, toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated with the seasonings. It will smell amazing!
2. Set Up the Instant Pot:
Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of your Instant Pot. This broth is important as it helps cook the wings and keeps them juicy. Make sure the pot is set up and ready for cooking!
3. Cook the Wings:
Carefully place the seasoned chicken wings into the Instant Pot. Close the lid securely and make sure to seal it. Set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure and cook for 10 minutes. You can use this time to clean up your prep area or get the veggies ready!
4. Release Pressure:
When the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully do a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the steam; it can be very hot!
5. Crisp the Wings (Optional):
If you love your wings crispy, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the cooked wings and toss them in your favorite wing sauce. Then, spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil on top if you like. Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until they are crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve:
Once the wings are out of the oven (if you crisped them), it’s time to serve! Place the wings on a platter with fresh vegetables like crunchy carrots and celery sticks. Don’t forget to add ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy your incredibly tasty Instant Pot chicken wings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just increase the cooking time to 15 minutes at high pressure. Be sure to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) after cooking. You may want to add an extra minute of natural pressure release for best results.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No worries! You can substitute chicken broth with water or vegetable broth. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a bouillon cube dissolved in water.
How to Store Leftover Wings?
Store leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave them, but the oven will help maintain their crispiness!
Can I Make My Own Wing Sauce?
Absolutely! You can easily make your own wing sauce by mixing melted butter with hot sauce for a classic buffalo flavor, or combine soy sauce, honey, and sriracha for a sweet-spicy twist. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and enjoy your personalized wing sauce!
