Fried chicken is a classic dish that is loved by many for its crispy and flavorful coating. While traditionally fried in hot oil, there is another method that can produce the same delicious results in a fraction of the time – pressure cooking!

Pressure cooking is a cooking technique that uses steam and high pressure to cook food quickly. This method not only saves time, but also helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

So, if you’re looking to enjoy a plate of crispy fried chicken without the hassle of frying, then pressure cooking is the way to go. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of pressure cooking fried chicken, from preparing the chicken to achieving that perfect golden crust.

The Benefits of Pressure Cooking Fried Chicken

Pressure cooking fried chicken offers a range of benefits that make it a popular cooking method among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Here are a few key advantages:

  • Time-saving: Pressure cooking fried chicken significantly reduces the cooking time compared to traditional methods. The high-pressure environment created inside the cooker helps to cook the chicken at a faster rate, saving you precious time in the kitchen.
  • Tender and juicy texture: The pressure cooking process helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in a moist and flavorful meat. The increased pressure circulates the moisture throughout the chicken, ensuring a juicy texture that is hard to achieve with other cooking methods.
  • Improved flavors: Pressure cooking enhances the flavors of fried chicken. The sealed environment prevents the escape of flavors and nutrients, allowing the chicken to marinate in its own juices and absorb the seasonings more effectively. This results in a more intense and delicious taste.
  • Nutritional value: Pressure cooking is a healthier alternative to deep frying as it requires less oil. The high pressure and steam help to cook the chicken evenly, reducing the need for excessive oil. This results in a lower calorie content and a healthier meal option.
  • Convenience: Pressure cooking fried chicken is a convenient way to prepare a delicious meal. Once you set the pressure cooker, you can leave it unattended, allowing you to focus on other tasks or spend quality time with your family. This makes it a perfect choice for busy individuals or those who want to reduce their cooking effort.
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With all these benefits, pressure cooking fried chicken is a great technique to try if you want to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Step-by-Step Guide to Pressure Cooking Fried Chicken

Pressure cooking fried chicken is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious dish without all the excess oil and grease. With the help of a pressure cooker, you can achieve the same crispy, golden exterior and tender, juicy interior that you would get from traditional deep frying. Follow these simple steps to make mouthwatering pressure-cooked fried chicken:

  1. Prepare the chicken: Start by selecting your chicken pieces of choice, such as drumsticks, thighs, or breasts. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
  2. Preheat the pressure cooker: Place your pressure cooker on the stovetop and preheat it over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil to the pressure cooker and allow it to heat up.
  3. Add the chicken: Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot oil in the pressure cooker. Be cautious as the oil may splatter. Cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side until browned.
  4. Add liquid: Once the chicken is browned, pour in a small amount of liquid, such as chicken broth or water, to create steam. This will help create pressure in the cooker.
  5. Seal and cook: Secure the lid on the pressure cooker and set it to cook at high pressure. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific cooker. Cook the chicken for the recommended amount of time, usually around 10-15 minutes.
  6. Release pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure from the cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure to wait until all the pressure has been released before opening the lid.
  7. Crisp the chicken: To achieve that classic fried chicken texture, transfer the cooked chicken to a baking sheet. Place it under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely, until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Remove the chicken from the broiler and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and enjoy your pressure-cooked fried chicken!
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With these simple steps, you can enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness of fried chicken using your pressure cooker. It’s a healthier and faster method that still delivers on taste and texture. Give it a try and impress your family and friends with your pressure cooking skills!

Choosing the Right Pressure Cooker for Fried Chicken

When it comes to cooking fried chicken using a pressure cooker, choosing the right one is essential for achieving the desired results. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting a pressure cooker for frying chicken:

  1. Size: The size of the pressure cooker is an important consideration, especially if you plan on cooking large batches of fried chicken. Look for a pressure cooker that can accommodate the quantity of chicken you typically fry.
  2. Material: Pressure cookers are typically made from stainless steel or aluminum. Stainless steel is a durable option and provides even heat distribution. Aluminum pressure cookers are lightweight and heat up quickly.
  3. Safety Features: Look for pressure cookers with safety features such as a locking lid and pressure release valves. These features ensure that the pressure cooker is easy and safe to use.
  4. Pressure Settings: Different pressure cookers offer different pressure settings. For fried chicken, it’s best to choose a pressure cooker with high-pressure settings to achieve crispy and well-cooked chicken.
  5. Additional Functions: Some pressure cookers come with additional functions such as browning or sautéing, which can be useful for preparing the chicken before pressure cooking it.

By considering these factors, you can choose a pressure cooker that suits your needs and helps you achieve perfectly fried chicken every time.

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Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Pressure Cooked Fried Chicken

Pressure cooking fried chicken can be a quick and convenient way to achieve crispy, juicy results. But to ensure that your chicken comes out perfect every time, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:

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1. Choose the Right Cut of Chicken

For pressure cooking, it’s best to use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like drumsticks, thighs, or wings. The bones add flavor and help the meat retain moisture, while the skin becomes wonderfully crispy.

2. Pre-cook the Chicken

To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat before frying, it’s important to pre-cook it in the pressure cooker. Add the chicken pieces to the cooker with enough water or broth to cover the bottom. Cook on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. This step also helps tenderize the meat.

3. Marinate for Extra Flavour

If time allows, marinating the pre-cooked chicken can add an extra depth of flavor. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using a combination of herbs, spices, and your choice of liquids like vinegar, lemon juice, or soy sauce. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

4. Add Breading or Batter

To get that classic fried chicken texture, you will need to add a breading or batter to the pre-cooked chicken. This can be a simple mixture of flour, salt, and pepper, or you can get creative and add spices or herbs to suit your taste. Dredge the chicken in the breading or dip it in a batter before frying.

5. Use the Right Oil and Temperature

For pressure cooking fried chicken, it’s important to use an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil or peanut oil. This ensures that the oil doesn’t burn during the frying process. Heat the oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to around 350°F (175°C), and carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil.

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6. Fry in Batches

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken. Fry the chicken in batches, allowing enough room for each piece to cook evenly and for the oil to maintain its temperature. Turning the chicken halfway during the cooking process will help achieve an even, crispy golden brown crust.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to pressure cooking the perfect batch of crispy, juicy fried chicken. Enjoy!

Variations and Flavor Enhancements for Pressure Cooked Fried Chicken

Pressure cooked fried chicken is a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional fried chicken. While the basic recipe is tasty on its own, there are many variations and flavor enhancements you can try to take your pressure cooked fried chicken to the next level.

1. Spicy kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your chicken marinade or seasoned flour mixture. This will give your fried chicken a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds tingling.

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2. Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs and spices to add a unique flavor profile to your pressure cooked fried chicken. Try adding dried thyme, rosemary, or sage to the marinade or seasoned flour for a fragrant and savory twist.

3. Citrus zest: For a vibrant and tangy flavor, add some citrus zest to your chicken marinade. Lemon or orange zest works particularly well and adds a refreshing taste to the crispy coating of the fried chicken.

4. Sweet and savory: Create a delicious sweet and savory combination by adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to your marinade mixture. This will give your pressure cooked fried chicken a unique and irresistible flavor.

5. Asian-inspired: Give your pressure cooked fried chicken an Asian twist by incorporating flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic into the marinade. This will result in a savory and flavorful chicken that pairs well with stir-fried vegetables or rice.

6. Buttermilk brine: Soak your chicken in a buttermilk brine for a few hours before pressure cooking to achieve tender and juicy meat. The acidity in the buttermilk helps to break down the proteins, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fried chicken.

Remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly when trying out different variations and flavor enhancements. It’s all about experimenting and finding your favorite combination! Enjoy the flavorful and juicy pressure cooked fried chicken.

Q&A

What is pressure cooking and how does it work?

Pressure cooking is a method of cooking food using high pressure steam that is trapped inside a pressure cooker. The high pressure increases the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook at a faster rate. This speeding up of the cooking process helps to retain the food’s nutrients and flavors.

Can fried chicken be cooked in a pressure cooker?

Yes, fried chicken can be cooked in a pressure cooker. However, the pressure cooker will not give the chicken the same crispy texture that traditional frying would. Instead, it will result in a tender and moist chicken with a slightly different taste.

What are the benefits of pressure cooking fried chicken?

Pressure cooking fried chicken can help to reduce the cooking time and retain the flavors of the chicken. It can also make the chicken more tender and moist compared to other cooking methods. Additionally, pressure cooking can be a healthier alternative to deep frying as it requires less oil.

What is the recommended cooking time for pressure cooking fried chicken?

The recommended cooking time for pressure cooking fried chicken can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general guideline, bone-in chicken pieces usually require around 8-10 minutes of cooking time, while boneless chicken pieces may only need around 5-7 minutes. It is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and reaches a safe internal temperature to prevent any foodborne illnesses.