These Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Sandwiches feature tender, juicy shredded chicken cooked in a smoky barbecue sauce and piled onto soft buns. They’re an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners, game day, or casual gatherings.
Author:Laura
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:6 sandwiches
Category:Main Course
Method:Instant Pot
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Calorie
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs
1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
6 hamburger buns
Coleslaw (optional)
Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions
Place the chicken in the Instant Pot.
Add the onion, garlic, chicken broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Secure the lid, set the valve to the sealing position, and cook on High Pressure for 12 minutes.
Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release.
Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred it with two forks.
Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot and stir it into the cooking sauce until well coated.
Toast the hamburger buns if desired.
Pile the pulled chicken onto the buns and top with coleslaw or pickle slices if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use buffalo sauce instead of barbecue sauce for a spicy variation.
Add honey and chipotle pepper for a sweet and smoky twist.
Top with pepper jack cheese for extra richness.
Store leftover pulled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or barbecue sauce to keep the chicken moist.