BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy juicy, tender shredded chicken slathered in rich barbecue sauce. This dish is incredibly versatile—ideal for sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or meal prep. The Instant Pot ensures that you get smoky, saucy BBQ goodness without the long wait of traditional methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: This recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, salads, or as a main dish; it fits any occasion.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal effort and ingredients, anyone can make this flavorful dish.
• Tender Texture: The pressure cooker method guarantees juicy and tender pulled chicken every time.
• Flavor Explosion: A delightful blend of spices and barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: The star of the show! It cooks chicken quickly while infusing flavors deeply.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like onion and garlic.
• Sharp Knife: Ensures clean cuts for even cooking and easy preparation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2–3 lbs chicken thighs or breasts (boneless skinless)

For the Sauce

• 1 cup barbecue sauce (divided)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

Seasoning Mix

• 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)

Vegetables

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

Additional Flavor

• 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 it with the spice blend mixture including smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Instant Pot

In your Instant Pot, add the chicken broth first. Then place the seasoned chicken on top along with half of the barbecue sauce. Add the 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 cook on high pressure for 15 minutes if using thighs or 12 minutes if using breasts.

Step 4: Release Pressure

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

Step 5: Shred The Chicken

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: Finalize The Sauce

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

Now you’re ready to serve this delicious BBQ Pulled Chicken! Enjoy it on buns, in tacos, or as part of your favorite meal prep.

How to Serve BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

BBQ Pulled Chicken made in the Instant Pot is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delicious ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this flavorful dish.

On Sandwiches

• Toasted buns: Layer the pulled chicken on a toasted bun with extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw for crunch.
• Garlic bread: Use garlic bread instead of regular buns for a tasty twist.

In Tacos

• Soft tortillas: Fill soft corn or flour tortillas with pulled chicken, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• Crunchy shells: Use taco shells topped with avocado and salsa for added flavor and texture.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Fluffy rice: Serve the pulled chicken over a bed of white or brown rice, drizzled with more BBQ sauce.
• Quinoa bowl: Pair it with quinoa and steamed veggies for a healthy meal.

In Salads

• Green salad: Toss the pulled chicken on a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing.
• Pasta salad: Mix it into pasta salad for an easy cold dish at gatherings.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

Achieving the perfect BBQ Pulled Chicken in your Instant Pot is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Choose the right cut: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture compared to breasts.
• Use quality BBQ sauce: Select a flavorful barbecue sauce that you love, as it greatly impacts the overall taste.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: Make sure to season your chicken well before cooking; this enhances its flavor.
• Allow natural release: Letting the pressure release naturally helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
• Shred while warm: Shredding the chicken while it’s warm ensures easier pulling and better absorption of flavors.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to add more spices or hot sauce based on your heat preference.

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

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Pulled Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the rich flavors of BBQ chicken.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up any extra sauce beautifully.
3. Baked Beans – Smoky baked beans offer a hearty side that complements the BBQ theme well.
4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a cool contrast to the warm, spicy pulled chicken.
5. Macaroni and Cheese – Cheesy mac is always a crowd-pleaser and pairs nicely with tangy BBQ flavors.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies add color and nutrition, creating a balanced plate.
7. French Fries – Crisp fries are great for dipping into excess BBQ sauce left on your plate.
8. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks infused with garlic serve as perfect vessels for enjoying leftover sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe, avoiding common mistakes can ensure a perfect dish every time. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using the wrong chicken cut – Opt for boneless skinless thighs or breasts for the best texture. Avoid using bone-in cuts as they may not cook evenly.
• Skipping seasoning – Always season your chicken before cooking. A simple spice blend enhances flavor and makes a noticeable difference in taste.
• Overcooking – Following the recommended cooking times is crucial. Cooking too long can dry out the chicken; use a timer to stay on track.
• Not allowing natural release – Letting the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes keeps the chicken tender. Quick releasing immediately can lead to tougher meat.
• Ignoring sauce proportions – Balance is key with BBQ sauce. Use half during cooking and reserve some for tossing afterward for maximum flavor.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn.
• It 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, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until hot; about 2-3 minutes total depending on the amount.
• Stovetop – Add chicken and a splash of broth or water to a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe:

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just increase the cooking time slightly—about 5 extra minutes should work well.

How can I customize this BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe?

Feel free to add different spices or even hot sauce during cooking for added heat. You can also mix in other sauces like honey mustard for variety.

What should I serve with BBQ Pulled Chicken?

This dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, or on top of rice. It’s versatile and complements many sides.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer helps ensure it’s cooked perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Pulled Chicken (Instant Pot) recipe is not only quick but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. Whether you enjoy it on sandwiches or serve it over rice, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sauces!