BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures in just 30 minutes. With juicy, tender chicken drenched in smoky BBQ sauce, it’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or even meal prep. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this quick pressure cooker method makes enjoying BBQ goodness easier than ever.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe offers delicious pulled chicken in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy this BBQ pulled chicken in sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or salads—it’s ideal for any meal!
• Flavorful and Tender: The combination of spices and barbecue sauce ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Easy Cleanup: Using the Instant Pot means fewer dishes to wash after your meal.
• 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 to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The key to achieving tender pulled chicken quickly without hours of cooking.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients like onion and garlic effortless.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining spices and other ingredients before adding them to the pot.

Ingredients

Chicken and Sauce

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

Spices and Seasonings

• 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)

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 the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with your spice blend. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to Instant Pot

In the Instant Pot, add:
1/2 cup of chicken broth,
The seasoned chicken,
Half of the barbecue sauce,
Diced onion,
Minced garlic,
Brown sugar,
Apple cider vinegar.

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

Seal the Instant Pot lid. Set it to high pressure for:
– 15 minutes if using thighs,
– 12 minutes if using breasts.

Step 4: Release Pressure

After cooking, allow for a natural release of pressure for about 10 minutes. Then switch to a quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before shredding with forks.

Step 6: Combine with Sauce

Stir in the remaining barbecue sauce into the shredded chicken. Sauté on the sauté setting for about 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Enjoy your BBQ Pulled Chicken as part of sandwiches, tacos, or your favorite dishes!

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

Serving BBQ Pulled Chicken from your Instant Pot opens up a world of delicious possibilities. This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways, perfect for any meal occasion.

Sandwiches

• Use soft buns to create hearty sandwiches topped with extra barbecue sauce for a satisfying meal.

Tacos

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

Bowls

• Assemble bowls with pulled chicken, rice or quinoa, black beans, corn, and pico de gallo for a filling and nutritious option.

Salads

• Top mixed greens with pulled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a refreshing salad.

Sliders

• Make mini sliders using small buns and serve them at parties or gatherings for easy finger food.

Pizza Topping

• Spread pulled chicken on pizza dough with cheese and additional toppings for a unique barbecue 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, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Boneless skinless thighs provide more moisture compared to breasts, making them ideal for this recipe.
• Use quality barbecue sauce: A good sauce elevates the flavor; opt for your favorite brand or homemade variety.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Properly season the chicken before cooking to enhance its taste and complexity.
• Let it rest before shredding: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain juices and makes shredding easier.
• Adjust the cooking time: If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes for best results.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding pickles or coleslaw on top of your pulled chicken for added texture and flavor!

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

Pairing sides with your BBQ Pulled Chicken adds balance to your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of this dish well.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the pulled chicken; perfect for topping sandwiches.
2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic side that pairs wonderfully with savory BBQ dishes; serve warm with butter.
3. Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans enhance the BBQ theme while offering protein and fiber; try using brown sugar or molasses for extra sweetness.
4. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy macaroni is comfort food at its finest; use sharp cheddar cheese for a flavorful kick.
5. Potato Salad: This classic side offers a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with tangy pulled chicken; make it ahead of time for convenience.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add color and nutrition; consider zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
7. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit; serve with a side of ranch or barbecue sauce for dipping.
8. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf offers a simple yet elegant base that complements the rich flavors of BBQ pulled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Pulled Chicken in the Instant Pot, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always pat the chicken dry and season it well with your spice blend.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too much chicken can cause uneven cooking. Make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot for optimal results.
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient liquid can result in burning or undercooked chicken. Always include at least 1/2 cup of broth or liquid for pressure cooking.
• Ignoring natural release: Quick releasing pressure right away may result in tough chicken. Allow for a natural release for at least 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
• Neglecting to shred properly: Shredding chicken while it’s too hot can be painful and messy. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding it with forks.
• Forgetting to thicken sauce: Not sautéing after adding BBQ sauce can leave it runny. Sauté for a few minutes after mixing in the sauce to achieve a thicker consistency.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storing portions.
• BBQ Pulled Chicken 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 an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about our BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe that might help you.

How long does it take to cook BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot)?

The cooking time is approximately 15 minutes under high pressure, plus additional time for natural release.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts or thighs. Just increase the cooking time by about 5 minutes.

What type of barbecue sauce should I use?

Any favorite brand or homemade barbecue sauce works great! Choose one that suits your taste preference—sweet, tangy, or spicy.

Can I make this recipe without brown sugar?

Absolutely! You can substitute with honey or skip it altogether if you prefer less sweetness.

What sides pair well with BBQ Pulled Chicken?

Consider serving with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a delicious meal!

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on sandwiches, tacos, or even over rice. Feel free to customize the spices and sauces based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!