BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights and casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, flavorful shredded chicken that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, and meal prep. The Instant Pot method ensures you enjoy smoky BBQ goodness without the long wait of traditional cooking techniques, making it a must-try for BBQ lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have delicious pulled chicken ready in no time.
• Versatile Usage: Enjoy this dish in sandwiches, tacos, or bowls—perfect for any occasion!
• Flavorful Ingredients: A blend of spices and BBQ sauce creates a juicy and tangy profile that everyone will love.
• Easy Cleanup: The Instant Pot means fewer dishes and a quicker cleanup process.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Forks (for shredding)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This electric pressure cooker speeds up cooking times while ensuring tender results.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting surface makes prepping ingredients safe and easy.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting of chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance.

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 the Spices

• 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 the Aromatics

• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Other Ingredients

• 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 pieces with paper towels.
• Season them with the spice blend consisting of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Let the seasoned chicken rest for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Instant Pot

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

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

• Securely close 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

• Allow a natural release for 10 minutes after cooking time ends.
• Afterward, perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

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

Step 6: Combine with Sauce

• Stir in the remaining barbecue sauce into the shredded chicken.
• Sauté on medium heat in your Instant Pot for an additional 2–3 minutes to thicken up.

Enjoy your BBQ Pulled Chicken as part of a hearty meal that’s sure to please!

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

BBQ Pulled Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and satisfy everyone.

Sandwiches

• Serve the pulled chicken on soft buns with extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw for a delicious sandwich option.

Tacos

• Fill corn or flour tortillas with shredded chicken, avocado, and fresh cilantro for a tasty taco twist.

Bowls

• Create a BBQ chicken bowl by layering rice or quinoa, black beans, corn, and topped with the pulled chicken and diced tomatoes.

Salad

• Top a fresh green salad with BBQ pulled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and ranch dressing for a hearty meal.

Sliders

• Use small slider buns to make bite-sized portions perfect for parties or game day gatherings.

Pizza

• Spread the pulled chicken on pizza dough with cheese and red onions for a unique BBQ chicken pizza experience.

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How to Perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

To ensure your BBQ Pulled Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some essential tips to follow.

• Choose the right cut of chicken: Boneless skinless thighs provide more flavor and moisture compared to breasts.
• Season well: Don’t skimp on seasoning the chicken before cooking; it enhances the overall taste.
• Use quality barbecue sauce: Select a flavorful BBQ sauce that complements the spices; homemade is often best.
• Don’t rush the release: Allow for natural pressure release to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
• Shred while warm: Shredding the chicken while it’s warm makes it easier and helps it absorb more flavor from the sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify spices according to your taste preference, adding more hot sauce if you like it spicy!

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

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Pulled Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and balances the flavors of the sweet BBQ sauce.
2. Cornbread: Soft cornbread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce while providing a comforting side.
3. Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans complement BBQ flavors beautifully.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a rich contrast to savory pulled chicken.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add freshness and color to your plate.
6. Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy richness of mac and cheese pairs well with tangy BBQ flavors.
7. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf enhances the meal without overpowering it.
8. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is great for mopping up any leftover sauce!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Pulled Chicken in your Instant Pot, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can impact your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always take time to season the chicken with spices before cooking.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Ensure you follow the recommended cook times based on whether you’re using thighs or breasts.
• Not using enough liquid: The Instant Pot requires adequate liquid to create steam. Always include enough broth or sauce to ensure proper pressure cooking.
• Rushing the release process: Quick releasing pressure too soon can cause splattering and affect texture. Allow for a natural release when specified in the recipe.
• Neglecting to shred well: Not shredding the chicken thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Use two forks and shred until it’s finely pulled apart.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Pulled Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

• Place cooled BBQ Pulled Chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or sauce if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe:

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

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes depending on thickness. Make sure to add extra liquid if possible.

What type of barbecue sauce should I use?

You can use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce or homemade. The flavor will significantly impact your pulled chicken’s taste, so choose one you love!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This BBQ Pulled Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can store it in individual portions and enjoy it throughout the week.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences or add extra ingredients like jalapeños or bell peppers for additional flavor.

How do I serve BBQ Pulled Chicken?

Serve it on buns as sandwiches, in tacos, over rice, or as part of a salad bowl. The options are limitless!

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re making sandwiches for lunch or preparing bowls for dinner, this dish fits perfectly into any meal plan. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite sauces and sides; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!