Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

BBQ lovers rejoice! This Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is your go-to meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, preparing a weeknight dinner, or simply craving something delicious, this recipe has you covered. With juicy chicken thighs seasoned to perfection and cooked quickly in the Instant Pot, you can enjoy rich flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: The pressure cooking method locks in moisture, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on buns for sandwiches, over rice for a hearty meal, or as a topping for nachos.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot reduces the mess, making cleanup a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Even picky eaters will love this flavorful dish, making it ideal for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into making this delicious pulled BBQ chicken, let’s go over the essential tools you’ll need to make this recipe a success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• Cooking Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multifunctional appliance allows for quick cooking while infusing flavors deeply into the chicken.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for mixing ingredients evenly and ensuring that every piece of chicken is coated with seasoning.

Ingredients

To prepare this mouthwatering Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken

• 2 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Seasoning

• 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

Sauce

• 1/2 C (140g) BBQ Sauce of Your Choice

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How to Make Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Coat the chicken thighs in olive oil in a large mixing bowl before adding the seasoning blend. Stir until every piece is well-coated.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function on high. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side before flipping them over and cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Pressure Cook

Add your chosen BBQ sauce to the pot. Stir gently to ensure some sauce reaches the bottom of the pot. Seal the lid and set it to pressure cook on high for 5 minutes with a quick release afterward.

Step 4: Shred and Mix

Carefully transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl. Use two forks or meat claws to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return shredded chicken back into the pot with any remaining sauce.

Step 5: Optional Crisping

If using an Instant Pot Duo Crisp, switch to broil mode for about 8-12 minutes for crispy edges. Alternatively, you can broil on a baking sheet in your oven.

Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken!

How to Serve Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bun

• Serve the pulled chicken on a soft hamburger bun for a classic BBQ sandwich. Top it with coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.

In Tacos

• Use corn or flour tortillas to create pulled BBQ chicken tacos. Add diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for freshness.

Over Rice

• Spoon the shredded chicken over a bed of fluffy rice. Drizzle extra BBQ sauce on top for an extra burst of flavor.

With Salad

• Pile the pulled chicken on mixed greens and add your favorite salad toppings. A light vinaigrette pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken.

As Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with pulled BBQ chicken, melted cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream for a delicious nacho platter perfect for game day.

Stuffed Peppers

• Mix the pulled chicken with cooked rice and stuff into halved bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

To ensure your Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use chicken thighs – They are more forgiving than breasts, resulting in juicier meat.
• Don’t skip searing – Searing the chicken adds depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.
• Allow natural pressure release – This helps keep the meat tender by allowing it to rest in its juices.
• Adjust seasoning – Customize the spice levels by adding more chili powder or using your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Shred while warm – Shredding the chicken while it’s warm makes it easier to pull apart and allows it to absorb more sauce.
• Broil for crispness – For crispy edges, broil the shredded chicken after cooking; this adds texture to your dish.

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Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

Pair your delicious Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken with these tasty side dishes that complement its smoky flavor perfectly.

1. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of pulled chicken.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that soaks up extra BBQ sauce beautifully.
3. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans offer a sweet and savory contrast to the spicy pulled chicken.
4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad adds comfort and pairs well with barbecue flavors.
5. Grilled Vegetables – Lightly charred veggies bring color and nutrition to your plate.
6. French Fries – Crispy fries make for an indulgent side that everyone will love.
7. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac & cheese is always a hit alongside any barbecue meal.
8. Pickle Chips – Tangy pickles add a zesty crunch that enhances each bite of pulled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to thoroughly coat the chicken with the seasoning mix can lead to bland flavors. Make sure every piece is well-covered before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too much chicken at once can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets the right treatment.
• Skipping the searing step: Not searing the chicken can result in less flavor and texture. Take the time to brown the chicken for that extra depth of flavor.
• Not releasing pressure properly: Forgetting to do a quick release can overcook your chicken, making it dry. Always follow the recipe instructions on pressure release.
• Using low-quality BBQ sauce: The sauce makes a big difference in flavor. Choose a BBQ sauce that you love, as it will enhance your dish greatly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts; however, they may turn out drier than thighs. Thighs generally provide juicier results.

How do I make this recipe spicy?

To add spice, include more chili powder or add hot sauce directly into your BBQ sauce. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and cook it ahead of time, then store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to serve.

What types of BBQ sauce work best?

You can use any of your favorite BBQ sauces—sweet, tangy, or smoky varieties all work well with this pulled chicken recipe.

How do I serve Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken?

Serve it on buns for sandwiches, over rice, or with coleslaw for a delightful meal!

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken recipe is not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich or served over rice, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices and sauces for an even more personal touch!