Braised Tomatillo Chicken Drumsticks in Salsa Verde

Braised Chicken Drumsticks in Tomatillo Sauce — a simple, Mexican-inspired chicken dish made with just a few everyday ingredients. This recipe works beautifully in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop and yields tender, fall-off-the-bone drumsticks in a bright, tangy tomatillo sauce.

Braised Tomatillo Chicken Drumsticks

If you enjoy drumstick recipes, you might also like these ideas: Turmeric Braised Chicken with Golden Beets and Leeks, 5 Spice Roasted Chicken Legs, and Crockpot Maple Dijon Chicken Drumsticks. These variations showcase how versatile drumsticks can be — from bold spices and roasted preparations to sweet-and-savory slow-cooker options.

The drumsticks cook until incredibly tender — the meat easily separates from the bone. Serve them over steamed rice, alongside a simple salad or sauteed vegetables. A crisp carrot salad or a green salad with a lemon-Dijon vinaigrette makes a refreshing contrast to the tangy tomatillo sauce.

This recipe is ideal if you’re looking for a quick weeknight solution that still tastes homemade and special. The Instant Pot version speeds up the braising process, while the slow cooker is perfect for set-it-and-forget-it meals. If you prefer stovetop cooking, simply simmer the drumsticks covered on low until they’re tender (you may need to add a little water while simmering).

Easy Braised Chicken Drumsticks in Tomatillo Sauce (Instant Pot, Slow Cooker or Stovetop)

Summary: A bright, tang-forward braise using jarred tomatillo sauce, fresh cilantro, and a touch of jalapeño for mild heat. Ready in about 40 minutes in a pressure cooker or in several hours in a slow cooker.

Yield: 6 drumsticks | Serving size: 1 drumstick

Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 30 mins | Total time: 40 mins

Ingredients

6 chicken drumsticks, on the bone, skin removed (about 24 oz)
1 tbsp cider vinegar
1 tsp kosher salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp olive oil
1 1/2 cups jarred tomatillo sauce (choose a good-quality brand)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro, divided
1 jalapeño, halved and seeded (leave seeds in if you want more heat)

Instructions

Instant Pot

Season the drumsticks with cider vinegar, salt, black pepper and dried oregano. If you have time, marinate for a few hours to let the flavors meld.
Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté.” When hot, add the olive oil and brown the drumsticks on both sides, about 4 minutes per side, working in batches if needed so the pan isn’t overcrowded.
Pour in the tomatillo sauce, add 2 tablespoons of the chopped cilantro and the halved jalapeño. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 20 minutes.
When the cook time finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally or follow your cooker’s instructions for a safe release. Remove the jalapeño if you prefer less heat, garnish with the remaining cilantro, and serve over rice or with your choice of sides.

Slow Cooker Directions

Place the seasoned drumsticks, tomatillo sauce, cilantro (reserve 2 tablespoons), and halved jalapeño into the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6 hours or on HIGH for 3 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
Garnish with remaining cilantro before serving.

Stovetop Directions

After seasoning and browning the drumsticks in a heavy pot or Dutch oven with olive oil, add the tomatillo sauce, cilantro (reserve 2 tablespoons) and the jalapeño. Add a splash of water if needed to barely cover the bottom and prevent sticking.
Cover and simmer on low heat until the chicken is tender, about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally and add a little water if the sauce reduces too much.
Finish with the reserved cilantro and serve.

Nutrition (per drumstick)

Tips & Variations

Make it spicier by leaving the jalapeño seeds in or adding a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning.
For a fresher sauce, swap the jarred tomatillo sauce for a homemade green salsa verde made from roasted tomatillos, onion, garlic and jalapeño.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and make great lunches. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
For a crisp finish, place cooked drumsticks under a broiler for 2–3 minutes before serving to brown the exterior slightly.

If you make this recipe, please leave a rating and comment to share how it turned out for you — feedback is always appreciated and helps others find great, easy dinner ideas.

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