Instant Pot Pulled Chicken is a quick and easy way to prepare tender, juicy chicken that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite dishes. Using the Instant Pot, this recipe takes the traditional slow-cooked pulled chicken and delivers it in a fraction of the time while maintaining all the savory flavors. With simple seasoning and the magic of pressure cooking, this dish becomes a versatile staple you can use for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (or your preferred sauce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: extra BBQ sauce or other sauces for serving
Instructions:
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken breasts or thighs.
- Sauté the chicken: Set the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side to lock in the flavors. This step is optional but enhances the taste.
- Add the liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce (or any other sauce you prefer), ensuring the chicken is mostly covered.
- Pressure cook the chicken: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure.
- Shred the chicken: Once the pressure is released, open the lid and use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the pot. Mix the chicken with the sauce in the pot so it stays moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Use the pulled chicken in sandwiches, tacos, over rice, or in any dish you desire. You can add extra BBQ sauce or other condiments as needed.
Enjoy your Instant Pot Pulled Chicken as a versatile, easy-to-make protein that can be used in countless ways throughout the week!
