Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken
A quick and easy recipe for tender, juicy BBQ pulled chicken made in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Use fresh chicken for best texture.
Sauce Mixture
- 1 cup barbecue sauce Choose your favorite brand or homemade.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder For flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust based on preference.
For Serving
- Hamburger buns Optional, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot.
- In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the Instant Pot, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
Cooking
- Seal the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then, perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Finishing Touches
- Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce, allowing it to soak up even more flavor.
- If desired, serve the pulled chicken on hamburger buns, allowing guests to make their own sandwiches.
Notes
Allowing for a natural pressure release helps the chicken to remain moist and tender. Shred the chicken while it's still warm for easier pulling.