How Do I Fry Chicken in an Electric Pressure Cooker

Introduction

Fried chicken is a beloved classic that satisfies the taste buds with its crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat. Traditionally, frying chicken involved a lot of oil and often resulted in a greasy, unhealthy end product. However, with the advent of electric pressure cookers, frying chicken has become a much more convenient and healthier option.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker, from choosing the right equipment to achieving the perfect crispy skin. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook looking to explore new cooking techniques, using an electric pressure cooker to fry chicken can be a game-changer.

The electric pressure cooker offers several advantages when it comes to frying chicken. It significantly reduces the cooking time, locking in flavors and juices, while also cutting down on the amount of oil needed for frying. Additionally, the pressure cooker performs the dual function of pressure cooking and frying, making it a versatile kitchen appliance that can save you both time and space.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your fried chicken game, let’s delve into the world of frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker and discover how to achieve that irresistible golden crust with moist and delectable meat inside.

Choosing the Right Equipment

When it comes to frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker, selecting the right equipment is crucial for optimal results. Here are a few important factors to consider:

Electric Pressure Cooker: Look for a reliable and durable electric pressure cooker that has a “saute” or “browning” function. This feature is essential for achieving that crispy exterior. Also, ensure that the pressure cooker has a removable inner pot for easy cleaning.
Size: Consider the size of the electric pressure cooker based on the quantity of chicken you plan to fry. If you frequently cook for a large group, choose a larger capacity cooker. However, for smaller portions, a compact-sized cooker will suffice.
Accessories: Check if your electric pressure cooker comes with a trivet or a wire rack. These accessories elevate the chicken, allowing the hot air to circulate evenly and ensuring a uniform golden brown crust.

When selecting the right equipment, it’s essential to read reviews, compare different models, and choose one that fits your needs and budget. Once you have your electric pressure cooker, it’s time to move on to the next step – preparing the chicken.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start frying chicken in your electric pressure cooker, it’s important to properly prepare the chicken. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Cleaning: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps remove any excess moisture and ensures a crispier end result.
Trimming: Trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken pieces. This helps prevent excessive splattering during the frying process and promotes even cooking.
Brining (Optional): Brining the chicken is an optional step, but it can greatly enhance the flavor and juiciness. Soak the chicken pieces in a mixture of salt and water for a few hours, then rinse and pat dry before proceeding.
Cutting (Optional): If you prefer smaller pieces of chicken, you can cut larger pieces, such as chicken breasts, into smaller portions. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and reduces the cooking time.

Once the chicken is properly prepared, it’s time to add some flavors to make it truly delicious. Let’s explore different seasoning options in the next section.

Seasoning Options

Seasoning is the key to adding delicious flavors to your fried chicken. Here are a few seasoning options to consider:

Classic Seasoning: For a classic and timeless flavor, you can use a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust the quantities based on your personal taste preferences.
Spicy Seasoning: If you’re a fan of heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning mix. This will give your fried chicken a spicy kick that pairs well with the crispy exterior.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs to infuse your chicken with aromatic flavors. Popular choices include rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley.
Marinades: Consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and your favorite spices. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful chicken.

Whatever seasoning option you choose, ensure that you coat the chicken pieces evenly before placing them in the electric pressure cooker. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat and enhance the overall taste.

Now that your chicken is seasoned and ready to go, let’s move on to the next step – cooking the chicken in an electric pressure cooker.

Cooking the Chicken in an Electric Pressure Cooker

Now comes the exciting part – cooking the seasoned chicken in your electric pressure cooker to perfection. Follow these steps for a deliciously fried chicken:

Preheat and Saute: Preheat your electric pressure cooker by selecting the “saute” or “browning” function. Add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to the bottom of the cooker to prevent sticking.
Place the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer in the pressure cooker. The chicken should be well-spaced to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: Close the lid of the pressure cooker and set it to high pressure cooking mode. The cooking time depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general guideline, boneless chicken breasts may require around 8-10 minutes of cooking time, while bone-in pieces may take around 12-15 minutes.
Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is complete, use the quick-release method to release the pressure from the cooker. Carefully remove the lid when the pressure has fully released.

At this point, the chicken should be completely cooked and tender. However, the skin may not be crispy yet. To achieve that desired crispiness, follow the next step.

Now, let’s uncover the secret to achieving the perfect crispy skin on your electric pressure cooker fried chicken.

Achieving the Perfect Crispy Skin

While the electric pressure cooker does a fantastic job of cooking the chicken, achieving a crispy skin requires a few additional steps. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect crispy skin:

Transfer to Oven (Optional): After the chicken has finished cooking in the pressure cooker, you have the option to transfer it to a preheated oven. This step helps to further crisp up the skin and achieve that golden-brown color. Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the desired level of crispiness is reached.
Air Drying: If you prefer not to use the oven, you can achieve a crispy skin by air-drying the chicken for a short period. Simply transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a crispier skin.
Browning with Oil: Alternatively, you can achieve a crispy skin by using a separate pan and browning the chicken in oil. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the cooked chicken pieces in the hot skillet, skin-side down, and cook for a few minutes until the skin is browned and crispy. Flip the chicken pieces and cook for a few more minutes to ensure both sides are crispy.

The method you choose will depend on your preference and the desired level of crispiness. Whichever method you select, be sure to monitor the cooking process closely to prevent the chicken from becoming overcooked or burnt.

Now that you have achieved that crispy golden skin on your electric pressure cooker fried chicken, let’s move on to some safety precautions.

Safety Precautions

When using an electric pressure cooker to fry chicken, it is important to follow certain safety precautions to ensure a safe cooking experience. Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:

Read the Manual: Before using your electric pressure cooker, thoroughly read and understand the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer. Familiarize yourself with the specific safety guidelines and recommended settings for frying chicken.
Use Proper Venting Techniques: When releasing pressure from the electric pressure cooker, always follow the recommended venting techniques provided in the manual. Avoid quick-release methods without proper precautions to prevent any potential steam burns.
Be Mindful of Hot Surfaces: The outer surfaces of the pressure cooker can become extremely hot during cooking. Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the electric pressure cooker to avoid burns.
Properly Ventilate: Ensure that the cooking area is properly ventilated. Frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker can produce smoke and odor, so it’s important to have proper ventilation to avoid setting off smoke alarms or causing discomfort.
Handle Hot Oil with Care: Whether you are preheating the pressure cooker or browning the chicken in a separate pan, always use caution when working with hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan and be cautious of splattering oil to prevent any potential burns.

By following these safety precautions, you can minimize the risk of accidents or injuries while using an electric pressure cooker to fry chicken.

Now that we’ve covered safety precautions, let’s move on to the final step – serving and savoring your delicious fried chicken.

Serving and Enjoying Your Fried Chicken

After all the preparation and cooking, it’s finally time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Here are some tips for serving and savoring your homemade fried chicken:

Let it Rest: Allow the fried chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juiciness. This will also help the flavors to settle and the skin to become even crispier.
Garnish and Presentation: Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top of the chicken for a pop of color and a burst of flavor. You can also serve your fried chicken on a bed of lettuce or with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing and balanced meal.
Sauce it Up: Offer a selection of dipping sauces or condiments like ketchup, barbeque sauce, hot sauce, or honey mustard. This allows everyone to customize their chicken and enhance the overall dining experience.
Serving Accompaniments: Fried chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, or a fresh salad. Choose your favorite sides to complete the meal.
Enjoy the Experience: Take a moment to appreciate the effort you put into making fried chicken in an electric pressure cooker. Share the meal with loved ones and savor the flavors and textures that make this dish a classic favorite.

Remember, the beauty of fried chicken lies in its versatility. You can enjoy it as a main course, in sandwiches, or even cold as leftovers. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy your homemade fried chicken to the fullest!

Now that you have learned the process of frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to the test and indulge in some delicious homemade fried chicken.

Conclusion

Frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker opens up a world of convenience, health benefits, and delicious flavors. The combination of pressure cooking and frying in one appliance reduces cooking time, locks in flavors, and requires less oil compared to traditional frying methods.

Choosing the right equipment, properly preparing the chicken, selecting seasoning options, and following the cooking steps are essential for achieving that perfect crispy skin and juicy meat. Safety precautions should always be observed to ensure a safe cooking experience.

Once the chicken is cooked, the possibilities for serving and enjoying are endless. Garnish with fresh herbs, pair it with delicious sides, and offer a selection of dipping sauces to enhance the dining experience.

Frying chicken in an electric pressure cooker allows you to recreate the timeless classic with a healthier twist. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can confidently whip up a batch of homemade fried chicken that will impress your family and friends.

So, get ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey with crispy, succulent, and flavorful fried chicken made in your electric pressure cooker. Happy cooking!