Name: BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2–3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced)

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This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy juicy, tender, and flavorful shredded chicken. Whether you’re preparing sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep bowls, this quick pressure cooker method delivers smoky and saucy BBQ goodness, eliminating the need for hours of slow cooking.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Flavorful Results: The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Use: Enjoy this pulled chicken in sandwiches, tacos, salads, or as a main dish—it’s great for any meal!
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of spiciness with your favorite hot sauce to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe, you’ll need some essential tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

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Essential Tools and Equipment

Importance of Each Tool

Instant Pot: This multi-cooker significantly reduces cooking time while ensuring your chicken remains moist and tender.
Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like onions and garlic without mess.
Forks: Essential for shredding the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces effortlessly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

2–3 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless skinless)
1/2 cup chicken broth

For the Sauce Mix

1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
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)

Additions

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: Season the Chicken

Pat dry the chicken thighs or breasts with paper towels. Season them with the spice blend you prepared. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Instant Pot

Add the chicken broth to the Instant Pot. Place the seasoned chicken on top. Pour in half of the BBQ sauce along with diced onion, minced garlic, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

Seal the lid on your Instant Pot. Set it to high pressure for 15 minutes if using thighs or 12 minutes for breasts.

Step 4: Release Pressure

After cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 6: Combine with Sauce

Stir in the remaining BBQ sauce into the shredded chicken mixture. Sauté on low heat for about 2-3 minutes to thicken up the sauce slightly before serving.

With this simple guide, you’ll have an easy way to enjoy BBQ Pulled Chicken using your Instant Pot!

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

BBQ Pulled Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On Sandwiches

Toasted buns are perfect for holding the juicy pulled chicken along with some coleslaw for texture and crunch.

In Tacos

Use soft tortillas to wrap the pulled chicken with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a fresh twist on tacos.

Over Rice or Quinoa

Serve the BBQ pulled chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa. Add some steamed veggies for a complete meal.

In Salad Bowls

Top mixed greens with shredded BBQ chicken, cherry tomatoes, and ranch dressing for a hearty salad.

With Cornbread

Pair the pulled chicken with warm cornbread to soak up the extra sauce. Add a side of pickles for some tanginess.

As Meal Prep

Portion out servings into containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This dish holds up well in the fridge!

How to Perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

Achieving tender and flavorful BBQ Pulled Chicken is easy with these tips. Follow these guidelines to make sure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Choose the right cut: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness or breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Don’t skip the seasoning: A good spice blend enhances flavor. Make sure to season well before cooking.
Use quality barbecue sauce: Select a sauce that complements your taste; homemade can add extra flair!
Allow natural release: This step helps keep your chicken moist and prevents it from becoming tough.
Shred while warm: Shredding the chicken immediately after resting allows it to absorb more sauce.
Sauté for thickening: After mixing in remaining sauce, sauté briefly to achieve that perfect sticky texture.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

BBQ Pulled Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its smoky flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

Coleslaw
A classic pairing, coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess that balances the flavors of pulled chicken.
Potato Salad
Creamy potato salad is a hearty side that brings comfort and complements BBQ dishes well.
Corn on the Cob
Grilled or boiled corn on the cob provides sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory BBQ flavors.
Baked Beans
Sweet and smoky baked beans are a traditional favorite alongside any barbecue meal.
Macaroni and Cheese
Rich macaroni and cheese adds indulgence, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Roasted Vegetables
Seasoned roasted vegetables offer a healthy contrast and brighten up your plate visually and nutritionally.
Fried Green Tomatoes
These crispy delights provide an excellent texture contrast while enhancing Southern flair to your meal.
Garlic Bread
Serve garlic bread on the side to soak up all the delicious barbecue sauce left on your plate!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Pulled Chicken in your Instant Pot, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish significantly. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using the wrong chicken cuts: Opt for boneless, skinless thighs or breasts for the best texture and flavor. Using bone-in pieces may lead to uneven cooking.
Skipping the seasoning step: Seasoning your chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip this step; allow the spices to sit on the meat for at least 10 minutes before cooking.
Overcrowding the pot: Cooking too much chicken at once can result in uneven cooking. Stick to 2-3 lbs to ensure that each piece gets the right amount of heat and steam.
Neglecting natural release: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for a few minutes helps keep the chicken moist. Rushing this step can lead to dry meat.
Not shredding properly: After cooking, let your chicken rest before shredding it with forks. This ensures a juicy finish rather than a dry texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Label containers with dates for easy identification when using later.

Reheating BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of chicken for BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer more flavor and moisture compared to breasts, but both work well if cooked properly.

Can I use frozen chicken in this BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken; just increase the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes and ensure it’s cut into smaller chunks.

How can I customize my BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe?

Feel free to add different spices or sauces according to your taste preferences. Try adding chipotle for a smoky kick or honey for extra sweetness.

What sides go well with BBQ Pulled Chicken?

Coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans pair wonderfully with BBQ pulled chicken and balance out its rich flavors.

How do I make BBQ Pulled Chicken spicy?

Add hot sauce during cooking or mix it into your barbecue sauce before serving. Adjust based on your spice tolerance!

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is not only quick and delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether served on sandwiches, tacos, or over rice bowls, it offers endless customization options. Give it a try and enjoy the smoky goodness that comes together in just 30 minutes!

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BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot)

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Author: Nora
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Enjoy a delicious BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe that transforms busy weeknights into flavorful feasts in just 30 minutes. This quick and easy dish features tender, juicy shredded chicken infused with smoky barbecue goodness. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep bowls, this versatile recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at your table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep work, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser in no time!

Ingredients

Scale

2–3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)

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Instructions

Pat dry the chicken and season with spices. Let rest for about 10 minutes.
Add chicken broth to the Instant Pot; place seasoned chicken on top and pour in half of the barbecue sauce along with diced onion, garlic, brown sugar, and vinegar.
Seal the lid and cook on high pressure: 15 minutes for thighs or 12 minutes for breasts.
Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.
Shred the chicken with forks after resting for 5 minutes and mix in remaining barbecue sauce. Sauté briefly to thicken.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Pressure Cooking
Cuisine: American