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Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken

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Instant Pot Pulled BBQ Chicken is a fast, flavorful, and tender shredded chicken dish made with BBQ sauce and simple seasonings. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep, it brings all the taste of slow-cooked BBQ in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)
  • Buns or sandwich rolls for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. (Optional) Turn Instant Pot to sauté mode, add olive oil, and sear chicken on both sides for 2–3 minutes. Turn off sauté mode.
  3. Pour chicken broth or water into the Instant Pot. Place chicken on top.
  4. Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the chicken.
  5. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
  6. Allow pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick release the remaining pressure.
  7. Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
  8. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in remaining BBQ sauce.
  9. Let chicken sit in the warm sauce for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for more flavor; breasts for a leaner option.
  • Adjust spice by choosing your preferred BBQ sauce or adding hot sauce.
  • Serve in sandwiches, tacos, lettuce wraps, or over rice or salad.
  • This recipe is freezer-friendly—perfect for meal prep.
  • Ensure BBQ sauce is gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/instant-pot-pulled-bbq-chicken/