How do You pressure cook fried chicken?

How Do You Pressure Cook Fried Chicken?

Pressure cooking is a popular method for cooking a variety of dishes, including proteins like chicken. When it comes to pressure cooking fried chicken, it may seem counterintuitive, as fried chicken is typically cooked in oil. However, with the right techniques and equipment, you can achieve crispy, flavorful fried chicken using a pressure cooker.

What You Need

Before we dive into the process, let’s discuss the necessary equipment and ingredients:

• A pressure cooker (e.g., Instant Pot, Fagor, or other brand)
• 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken pieces (e.g., legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• Your favorite seasonings and spices (e.g., herbs, hot sauce)

The Pressure Cooking Process

Here’s a step-by-step guide to pressure cooking fried chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into your desired pieces (e.g., legs, thighs, wings, breasts).
• In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Toss the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Add 2 tablespoons of butter or oil to the pressure cooker.
• Place the chicken pieces in the pressure cooker, making sure they are not stacked on top of each other.
• Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to "sealing".
• Pressure cook on high for 5-7 minutes. Note: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of chicken pieces.

Step 3: Let it Cool

• Allow the pressure cooker to naturally release the pressure for 10-15 minutes. Do not open the lid yet!
• Once the pressure has been released, you can open the lid and carefully remove the chicken pieces.

Step 4: Crisp Up the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the cooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Drizzle with additional butter or oil, if desired.
• Sprinkle with your favorite seasonings and spices.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy and golden brown.

Tips and Variations

Here are some additional tips and variations to keep in mind:

• Don’t overcrowd the pressure cooker: Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken pieces to allow for even cooking.
• Adjust the cooking time: If you prefer your chicken more tender, cook for 7-8 minutes. If you prefer it crisper, cook for 5 minutes.
• Add flavor boosters: Try adding aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the pressure cooker for added flavor.
• Try different seasonings: Experiment with different seasoning blends, such as Cajun, Korean-style, or Indian-inspired.
• Make it crispy: For an extra crispy exterior, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after baking.

Benefits of Pressure Cooking Fried Chicken

So, why pressure cook fried chicken? Here are some benefits:

• Faster cooking time: Pressure cooking significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional deep-frying methods.
• Less oil: Pressure cooking uses minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep-frying.
• Easy to make: With the right equipment and ingredients, pressure cooking fried chicken is relatively easy and requires minimal effort.
• Consistent results: Pressure cooking ensures consistent results, with perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Conclusion

Pressure cooking fried chicken may seem unusual, but it’s a game-changer for those looking for a healthier, easier, and faster way to enjoy this popular dish. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve crispy, flavorful fried chicken using a pressure cooker. So, next time you’re in the mood for fried chicken, give pressure cooking a try!

Pressure Cooking Fried Chicken Recipe Table

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a pressure cooker with a non-stick coating?

  • Yes, but make sure to use a gentle release of pressure to avoid scratching the non-stick surface.

• Can I deep-fry chicken in a pressure cooker?

  • No, pressure cookers are designed for pressure cooking, not deep-frying.