For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly. Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors to customize the dish to your liking. The cooking liquid can be strained and used as a base for soups or sauces, adding a smoky chicken flavor. Serve with coleslaw and potato salad for a classic barbecue meal.
Instant Pot Pulled Chicken
-
PREP TIME10 mins
-
COOK TIME1 hrs
-
TOTAL TIME1 hrs 20 mins
-
SERVING10 People
-
VIEWS57
Transform humble chicken breasts into a flavor-packed, barbecue-ready sensation with this incredibly simple Instant Pot recipe. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this pulled chicken is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
-
Carbohydrate31 g
-
Cholesterol59 mg
-
Fiber1 g
-
Protein26 g
-
Saturated Fat1 g
-
Sodium954 mg
-
Sugar7 g
-
Fat5 g
-
Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a small bowl, thoroughly combine the kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. (5 minutes)
02
StepCut the chicken breasts into 3- to 4-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag.
03
StepSprinkle the prepared spice mixture over the chicken in the bag. Squeeze out any excess air, seal the bag tightly, and shake vigorously to evenly coat the chicken with the seasoning. (5 minutes)
04
StepPour 1 cup of water into the multi-functional pressure cooker (such as an Instant Pot). Place the wire rack inside the pot.
05
StepArrange the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer on the wire rack inside the Instant Pot. (5 minutes)
06
StepClose and securely lock the Instant Pot lid according to the manufacturer's instructions. Select the 'Meat/Poultry' function on the Instant Pot. Set the cooking timer for 50 minutes. Allow approximately 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build inside the pot before cooking begins.
07
StepOnce the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, following the manufacturer's instructions for the natural-release method.
08
StepCarefully transfer the cooked chicken pieces from the Instant Pot to a large bowl.
09
StepUsing two forks, shred the chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces. (10 minutes)
10
StepAdd ½ cup of the cooking liquid from the Instant Pot to the shredded chicken, along with 1 teaspoon of hickory-flavored liquid smoke. Mix well to combine, ensuring the chicken is moistened and infused with smoky flavor.
11
StepServe the flavorful pulled chicken on hamburger buns, and generously top with your favorite barbecue sauce. Enjoy! (5 minutes)
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
RECIPE REVIEWS
LEAVE A REVIEW
Please Rate
LATEST RECIPES
-
1 -
2 -
3 -
4 -
5
Sanford Gorczany
Jun 13, 2025Next time, I might try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for some tang.
Susie Brown
May 19, 2025The liquid smoke is key! It really gives it that authentic barbecue flavor.
Americo Rice
Apr 8, 2025I used frozen chicken breasts, and it still turned out great. Just added about 15 minutes to the cooking time.
Creola Okon
Mar 1, 2025My family loves this! It's a regular on our dinner rotation.
Darian Crona
Jan 14, 2025This recipe is a lifesaver! So quick and easy for a weeknight meal.
Dashawn Wilkinson
Dec 10, 2024I added a little brown sugar to the spice rub for extra sweetness – delicious!
Jorge Darewintheiser
Nov 26, 2024So much better than store-bought pulled chicken!
Russell Gleason
Oct 29, 2024I love that I can customize the barbecue sauce to my liking.