Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that brings you tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or casual get-togethers. The combination of spices and your favorite BBQ sauce makes this dish stand out, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds. Plus, using the Instant Pot means you can enjoy juicy pulled chicken in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The blend of spices and BBQ sauce creates an irresistible taste that will delight your palate.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or over rice—this pulled chicken fits any meal occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish, making it great for family dinners.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Instant Pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Tongs
- Serving Dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time while ensuring that your chicken remains juicy and tender.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl helps in combining all the ingredients efficiently.
- Tongs: Ideal for flipping the chicken during searing without losing moisture or flavor.
Ingredients
BBQ seasoned chicken thighs seared and pressure cooked to juicy, tender perfection.
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 2 Tbsp (32g) Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tsp Dry Mustard
- 1 tsp Chili Powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 C (140g) BBQ Sauce of Your Choice
How to Make Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients: brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, kosher salt, dry mustard, chili powder (if using), and black pepper. Mix well.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a large bowl, coat the boneless skinless chicken thighs with olive oil. Add the seasoning blend from step one to the chicken. Stir until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode on high. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping them over to cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce and Pressure Cook
Pour your chosen BBQ sauce over the seared chicken. Gently move the chicken around so that some sauce gets to the bottom of the pot. Seal the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes with quick release pressure once done.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Carefully transfer the cooked chicken from the Instant Pot to a bowl. Use two forks to shred it apart before returning it to mix with any remaining sauce in the pot.
Step 6: Optional Crisping Step
For extra crispy edges, if you have an Instant Pot Duo Crisp model, use its broil function for about 8-12 minutes or place under a broiler in your oven until edges are crispy.
Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken!
How to Serve Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
Serving Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish can be the star of your table. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this tender, flavorful chicken.
On Sandwiches
- Classic BBQ Sandwich: Pile the pulled chicken onto a soft bun and add extra BBQ sauce for a mouthwatering sandwich.
- Coleslaw Topped: Add a scoop of coleslaw on top for crunch and freshness, balancing the smoky flavors.
With Rice or Grains
- Over Rice: Serve the pulled chicken over steamed rice for a hearty meal. Drizzle extra BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Quinoa Bowl: Mix with quinoa and your favorite vegetables for a healthy and filling bowl.
As Tacos
- BBQ Chicken Tacos: Fill corn tortillas with pulled chicken, avocado, and fresh cilantro for a tasty twist.
- Nacho Topping: Use as a topping for nachos, adding cheese, jalapenos, and sour cream for an exciting appetizer.
As Part of a Platter
- BBQ Chicken Platter: Serve alongside various dips and veggies for a fun party platter that’s sure to please guests.
- Salad Bowls: Top mixed greens with pulled chicken and your choice of dressing for a light yet satisfying meal.
How to Perfect Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
To ensure your Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- seasoning blend: Make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly with your seasoning mix before cooking. This enhances flavor throughout.
- searing process: Sear the chicken well in the Instant Pot. This adds depth and caramelization that enriches the taste.
- use of liquid: Always add enough BBQ sauce when pressure cooking. It will infuse moisture into the chicken as it cooks.
- quick release method: Ensure you perform a quick release after cooking. This helps keep the chicken juicy and prevents overcooking.
- shredding technique: After cooking, let the chicken rest briefly before shredding it. This will help retain its juices.
- optional broiling step: For crispy edges, consider using the broil function after shredding. It adds an enjoyable texture contrast.
Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this dish beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the BBQ chicken.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce while providing a comforting texture.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans enhance the BBQ experience, making them an ideal partner for pulled chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrition to your plate while keeping it vibrant.
- Potato Salad: A classic potato salad brings creaminess and tanginess that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of BBQ chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit; its richness complements the meat perfectly for comfort food lovers.
- Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: The acidity from pickles cuts through the richness of the dish, adding balance to every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken, some common missteps can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Searing Step: Not searing the chicken can result in less flavor. Always take the time to brown the chicken first for a richer taste.
- Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too much chicken at once can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure the pieces have space to cook thoroughly.
- Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking for too long can dry out the chicken. Follow the recommended pressure cooking time closely for juicy results.
- Using Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: A bland sauce will affect the overall flavor. Choose a BBQ sauce that you love for the best taste.
- Not Allowing for Natural Pressure Release: Rushing the release can make your chicken tough. Let it naturally release pressure for optimal tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, adding a little extra BBQ sauce if needed.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed, adding more sauce if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
You can use chicken breasts, but they may be less juicy. Thighs provide better moisture and flavor.
How do I make this recipe spicy?
To add spice, include more chili powder or your favorite hot sauce when mixing the seasoning blend.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken with spices and sauce a day before cooking.
What sides go well with Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken?
This dish pairs perfectly with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different sauces or spices to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or for meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress!
Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that delivers tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish features succulent chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of spices and slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce. In just 30 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or over rice—this versatile recipe fits any occasion and is sure to leave your guests asking for more!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 C BBQ Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Coat chicken thighs with olive oil and the spice mixture until evenly covered.
- Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Pour BBQ sauce over the chicken and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes with a quick release.
- Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and mix with remaining sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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