A quick and easy method to make shredded BBQ chicken for sliders or sandwiches, right in your Instant Pot.
For some folks, the only way to make BBQ chicken is to cook it on the grill. But as with most dishes, there are plenty of other ways to prepare it. With a little bit of chicken broth and BBQ sauce, an Instant Pot can turn boneless chicken breasts into delicious shredded BBQ chicken in less than an hour. This recipe really comes in handy during the winter months when using an outside grill can be a much less enjoyable experience.
In an Instant Pot, chicken breast comes out juicy and tender, making it easy to shred with a fork. After that, the chicken goes back into the Instant Pot, where it’s coated in the BBQ sauce mixture. From there, you can use the chicken in sandwiches, sliders, or any other dish you want. The best part is that the chicken is packed with flavor thanks to the BBQ sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder—all ingredients that most people have in their kitchens already.
Of course, the type of BBQ sauce you use is entirely up to you. You can use a simple Keto BBQ Sauce or add a little kick with Spicy BBQ Sauce. If you want, you can use a regional style of sauce, like Texas BBQ Sauce or even Kansas City BBQ Sauce.
Is Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Healthy?
The good thing about this recipe is that boneless, skinless chicken breast is a good source of lean protein, and this method of cooking keeps the chicken juicy while avoiding excess oil or butter. However, many store-bought BBQ sauces are high in sugar and calories, and there’s a significant amount of BBQ sauce in this recipe. If you’re using store-bought BBQ sauce, make sure to check the nutritional information on the label of the sauce you use. If you’re watching your sugar or sodium intake, it’s worth considering making a homemade BBQ sauce instead. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth to decrease the sodium content, too.
Maximize The Flavor…
The best way to add flavor to BBQ chicken is to season it generously. The type of BBQ sauce you use will also have a big impact on the final taste. However, make sure you season the chicken well, and feel free to add other types of seasoning to your taste. Spices such as chili powder will add a little more kick, while using smoked paprika in place of regular paprika can add some smoky undertones.
How to make ahead and store
Leftover BBQ chicken should cool completely before being transferred to the fridge in an airtight container. It should remain good for 3 or 4 days. You can also freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Whether you eat the BBQ chicken as it is or turn it into sliders or sandwiches, Potato Salad and Coleslaw are two of my all-time favorite side dishes for BBQ chicken. If you feel like mixing things up a little, you might consider Sweet Potato Salad or different variations of coleslaw, like this Carolina Coleslaw. You might also consider making Air-Fryer Sweet Potato Fries to complement your delicious chicken, especially if you make shredded chicken sliders.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/3 cups BBQ sauce
- Kosher salt to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the Instant Pot. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Pour 1 cup broth and 2/3 cup BBQ sauce over the chicken.
- Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the time for 15 minutes on high pressure.
- After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully do a quick release for any remaining pressure. Use a kitchen thermometer to make sure the chicken is at least 165°F (if it isn't cooked enough, cook for a few minutes longer).
- Remove the chicken from the Instant Pot, shred with two forks, and toss back in the pot with the sauce to coat. Add the remaining 2/3 cup of BBQ sauce and season to taste with salt. Serve as desired.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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