BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It brings you deliciously tender and juicy shredded chicken in just 30 minutes. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep, this pressure cooker method delivers rich BBQ flavor without the long cooking times. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: You can have flavorful pulled chicken ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Versatile Uses: Enjoy it in sandwiches, tacos, salads, or over rice – the possibilities are endless!
- Easy Preparation: With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe takes the stress out of dinner.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and BBQ sauce creates a smoky, tangy taste that everyone will love.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch for easy meals throughout the week!
Tools and Preparation
To make the most of your BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) experience, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure everything runs smoothly.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up cooking time significantly while infusing your chicken with incredible flavor.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface is crucial for safe and efficient chopping of ingredients like onions and garlic.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your BBQ sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2–3 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless skinless)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For Seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Aromatics
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce (to taste)
How to Make BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat dry the chicken thighs or breasts with paper towels. Season them evenly with the spice blend. Let them rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Instant Pot
In your Instant Pot, combine the chicken broth, seasoned chicken, half of the barbecue sauce, diced onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
Step 3: Cook Under Pressure
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure. Cook for 15 minutes if using thighs or 12 minutes if using breasts.
Step 4: Release Pressure
After cooking time is complete, let the pot naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes. Then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before shredding it with two forks.
Step 6: Mix in Remaining Sauce
Stir in the remaining barbecue sauce into the shredded chicken. Sauté on Sauté mode for about 2–3 minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.
Enjoy your BBQ Pulled Chicken as part of a delicious meal!
How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
BBQ Pulled Chicken is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a variety of meals. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for an easy dinner option, here are some delicious ways to serve this Instant Pot delight.
On Sandwiches
- Serve the pulled chicken on toasted buns with extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw for crunch.
In Tacos
- Use soft tortillas to wrap the shredded chicken, topped with avocado and fresh cilantro for a fresh twist.
Over Rice
- Spoon the BBQ pulled chicken over fluffy rice, adding steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
In Salads
- Toss the pulled chicken into a salad mix with your favorite dressing for a hearty lunch or dinner option.
As Nachos
- Layer tortilla chips with BBQ pulled chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and drizzle with ranch dressing for a tasty snack.
Meal Prep Bowls
- Divide the pulled chicken into meal prep containers with grains and veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
How to Perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
To ensure your BBQ Pulled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use bone-in thighs: They provide more flavor and moisture compared to breasts.
- Marinate overnight: Letting the chicken sit in the spices and BBQ sauce enhances the taste.
- Avoid overcooking: Stick to recommended cooking times to keep the chicken juicy.
- Natural release is key: Allowing pressure to release naturally helps maintain tenderness.
- Experiment with sauces: Try different BBQ sauces or add spices to customize flavors.
- Shred while warm: Shredding immediately after cooking makes it easier and ensures even sauce distribution.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
Pair your BBQ Pulled Chicken with delicious side dishes that complement its smoky flavor. Here are some great options to consider:
- Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds freshness and texture that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors; serve it warm with butter.
- Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans bring a sweet and savory element that complements pulled chicken well.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a cool contrast; make it classic or add bacon for extra flavor.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled veggies bring color and nutrition; they can be seasoned simply with salt and pepper.
- French Fries – Crispy fries are always a hit; toss them in paprika for an extra kick.
- Macaroni and Cheese – This comfort food classic adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with BBQ dishes.
- Pickles – Tangy pickles offer a refreshing bite that cuts through the richness of the meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BBQ Pulled Chicken in your Instant Pot, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the seasoning step: Not seasoning the chicken well before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always pat dry and season generously with spices.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Stick to the recommended cook times based on your meat type – thighs typically need 15 minutes, while breasts need only 12.
- Ignoring natural release: Quick-releasing pressure right away can result in tough meat. Allow for at least 10 minutes of natural release before quick release for optimal tenderness.
- Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquid may cause burning. Always use at least half a cup of broth or sauce to ensure proper cooking and prevent sticking.
- Skipping rest time after cooking: Rushing to shred the chicken without letting it rest can make it fall apart poorly. Let it rest for about 5 minutes for better shredding results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
- Place in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or BBQ sauce and heat until warmed through, stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best cut of chicken for BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe?
Thighs work best due to their higher fat content, keeping the meat juicy. Breasts are also suitable but may require careful timing.
Can I use frozen chicken in this BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe?
Yes! You can cook frozen chicken directly in the Instant Pot; just increase the cook time by about 5 minutes.
How do I serve BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot)?
This dish is versatile! Serve it on buns, in tacos, over rice or salad. It’s great on its own or as part of a meal prep.
What should I do if my BBQ sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick after cooking, simply sauté for a few extra minutes and add a splash of broth or water until you reach desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe offers a quick way to enjoy tender and flavorful shredded chicken. It’s perfect for various meals and can easily be customized with different sauces or spices. Try experimenting with your favorite ingredients!
BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this quick and delicious BBQ Pulled Chicken recipe made in the Instant Pot. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy tender, juicy shredded chicken infused with rich BBQ flavors. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep, this meal is versatile and satisfying. Say goodbye to lengthy cooking times and hello to effortless comfort food that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving something hearty, this dish delivers on taste without sacrificing time.
Ingredients
- 2–3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken and season with spices; let rest for 10 minutes.
- Combine chicken broth, seasoned chicken, half of the BBQ sauce, onion, garlic, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in the Instant Pot.
- Seal the lid and cook on high pressure (15 minutes for thighs; 12 for breasts).
- Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
- Remove chicken and shred using two forks; mix in the remaining BBQ sauce.
- Sauté on 'Sauté' mode for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
