Instant Pot BBQ Chicken – Looking for a quick. And a delicious meal? This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe. Is perfect for busy weeknights! Made with boneless skinless chicken breasts, a flavorful BBQ sauce, and simple spices. This dish is sure to become a family favorite.
The first time I made this Instant Pot BBQ Chicken. I was in a rush to get dinner on the table. After a long day. My husband and child were both skeptical. When they saw me pulling out the Instant Pot. But as soon as they took their first bite. Their doubts melted away. The juicy, tender chicken with its smoky BBQ flavor. Won them over instantly. Now, it’s a go-to recipe in our household. Especially on busy nights. When we need something fast yet satisfying.
What makes this Instant Pot BBQ Chicken truly stands out?
This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe stands out. For its simplicity. And rich flavor. With just a few ingredients. And minimal prep time. You can create a hearty meal. That tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. The versatility of this dish is another plus. You can serve it on burger buns, over rice. Or even in a salad.
What You Need To Make This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Recipe?
Chicken Broth: Using low sodium chicken broth. Helps control the saltiness, letting the flavors of the BBQ sauce shine through. Without being overly salty.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. It’s the star ingredient. So a good quality sauce will make a big difference.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick. That balances out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. And gives the chicken a bit of a zing.
Garlic Powder: Adds a nice depth of flavor. And aroma without the need for chopping fresh garlic.
Chili Powder: Gives a subtle heat and smoky flavor. That complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors. Especially important if you’re using water instead of broth.
Black Pepper: Adds a little bit of bite to the overall flavor profile.
Chicken: Both boneless skinless chicken breasts and thighs work great. Thighs are a bit juicier. While breasts are leaner.
Burger Buns: Optional. But they’re perfect. For making BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Steps To Make Instant Pot BBQ Chicken:
Step 1: Mix the Sauce: In your Instant Pot, combine 1 cup of chicken broth, ½ cup of BBQ sauce (save the rest for later), 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of chili powder, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk everything together. Until it’s well mixed.
Step 2: Add the Chicken: Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Into the sauce mixture. Make sure the chicken is well nestled into the sauce.
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Step 3: Set the Instant Pot: Close the lid of the Instant Pot. And set the steam release valve to the sealing position. Select the high-pressure setting and set the cook time to 16 minutes. Remember, it will take about 15 minutes for the Instant Pot to reach pressure. Before the cooking countdown begins.
Step 4: Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Don’t touch anything during this time. After 10 minutes. Carefully switch the steam release valve to the venting position. To let out any remaining steam.
Step 5: Check the Chicken: Open the lid and check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. Using an instant-read thermometer.
Step 6: Rest and Shred: Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean bowl or cutting board. And let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred the chicken using two forks, your fingers, or even a stand mixer for ease.
Step 7: Prepare the Sauce: Stir the remaining ¾ cup of BBQ sauce into the sauce left in the Instant Pot. If the sauce isn’t hot enough. Use the sauté function to heat it up. You can also let it simmer to thicken. If you prefer a richer sauce.
Step 8: Combine and Serve: Mix some of the sauce from the pot into the shredded chicken. Serve your delicious BBQ chicken on burger buns, with extra BBQ sauce on the side, or however you like it best.
Tip:
For an even richer flavor. Marinate the chicken in half of the BBQ sauce mixture. For a few hours before cooking. This allows the chicken to absorb more of the sauce. Making each bite. Even more flavorful and tender. You can also try different BBQ sauce flavors. To customize the taste. Adding a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke. Can give the chicken an extra smoky flavor. That’s just like it came off the grill. Experiment. And make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes. You can use frozen chicken. The cook time remains the same at 16 minutes on high pressure. Just be sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave. Or on the stovetop.
What sides go well with Instant Pot BBQ Chicken?
This BBQ chicken pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, corn on the cob, and potato salad. Or even a simple green salad. It’s also great served over rice. Or mashed potatoes.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 c low sodium chicken broth
- 1 ¼ c BBQ sauce divided
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp salt use ½ tsp if using water instead of broth
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Burger buns if desired, for serving
Instructions
- Whisk together broth, ½ cup BBQ sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot.
- Add chicken and coat with sauce.
- Cook on high pressure for 16 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then vent.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F and let rest.
- Mix remaining BBQ sauce into the pot sauce and heat if needed.
- Shred chicken, mix with sauce, and serve on buns.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
