If you’re craving an easy, flavorful dinner with authentic Chinese flair, these Instant Pot Soy Sauce Chicken Drumsticks with Veggies are your new go-to. Inspired by traditional Chinese braised chicken, this recipe is rich in umami, quick to make, and deeply comforting—just like the meals I grew up with.
What Is Soy Sauce Chicken?
Soy sauce chicken (豉油鸡) is a popular Cantonese dish made by simmering chicken in a rich, savory broth of soy sauces, aromatics, and spices. Traditionally slow-braised on the stovetop, this method can take hours. But with an Instant Pot, you get tender, juicy, flavor-infused chicken in a fraction of the time—without losing any of the depth.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This dish uses two types of soy sauce—light and dark—for depth and color, plus Shaoxing wine, garlic, and star anise to bring that signature Chinese aroma. Braising chicken in a soy-based sauce is a staple in many Asian households, and the Instant Pot makes it weeknight-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is simple but relies on pantry staples that are commonly used in Chinese home cooking:
- Chicken drumsticks – Budget-friendly, juicy, and perfect for pressure cooking.
- Light soy sauce – For saltiness and bright umami flavor.
- Dark soy sauce – Adds rich color and a touch of sweetness.
- Shaoxing wine – A traditional Chinese rice wine that deepens the flavor. Substitute with chicken broth if needed.
- Honey – Balances the saltiness and adds gloss.
- Garlic + Ginger – Essential aromatics in Chinese cooking.
- Star anise – A warming spice that gives that “Chinese restaurant” flavor.
- Carrots & Green Beans – For added texture, color, and nutrition.
Chinese Cooking Tips
- Dark Soy Sauce adds a deep, caramel color and slight sweetness—don’t skip it!
- Shaoxing wine gives the dish a rich, authentic flavor. Sub with chicken broth if unavailable.
- Star anise infuses a subtle licorice-like warmth, common in Chinese braised dishes.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is a one-pot wonder that brings traditional Chinese flavors to your table in under an hour. It’s savory, slightly sweet, aromatic, and nourishing—perfect for busy families and nostalgic foodies alike.
Variations to Try
- Swap drumsticks for chicken thighs
- Add bok choy or shiitake mushrooms for a veggie boost
- Use the sauce base for tofu or hard-boiled eggs for a vegetarian spin
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out in the comments! And don’t forget to tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your creations.
Instant Pot Soy Sauce Chicken Drumsticks: A Chinese Comfort Classic
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup dark soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup Shaoxing wine or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp honey
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- 1 piece of ginger sliced
- 2 star anises
- 1 cup carrots
- 1 cup green beans
Instructions
- Flavor Base: In your Instant Pot, combine both soy sauces, water, Shaoxing wine, honey, garlic, ginger, and star anise.
- Add Chicken: Toss in the drumsticks and coat evenly with the sauce.
- Pressure Cook: Set to high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10–15 minutes.
- Add Veggies: Switch to sauté mode. Stir in carrots and green beans. Cook for 7–8 minutes until tender.
- Serve: Plate it over steamed rice or noodles for a complete, comforting meal.
