Yes, you typically need liquid when pressure cooking chicken. The liquid is essential to create steam, which builds pressure inside the pressure cooker and cooks the chicken quickly and evenly. Without enough liquid, the pressure cooker may not reach the necessary pressure level to cook the chicken effectively.
Here's a general guideline for pressure cooking chicken with liquid:
Place the chicken pieces or whole chicken in the pressure cooker.
Add enough liquid to create steam during cooking. Common choices for the cooking liquid include water, chicken broth, vegetable broth, or a combination of these.
You can also add seasonings, herbs, spices, and aromatics to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Close the pressure cooker lid securely.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pressure cooker model regarding pressure settings, cooking times, and safety guidelines.
As the pressure cooker comes to pressure, the liquid will turn into steam, which cooks the chicken quickly and effectively. The sealed environment of the pressure cooker helps retain moisture, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.
Remember that using too much liquid can dilute the flavors, so it's essential to use the recommended amount based on your recipe or pressure cooker manual. Additionally, be cautious not to overfill the pressure cooker, as there should be enough space for the steam to build up without obstructing the vent or safety features. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper usage and safety guidelines for your specific pressure cooker model.