Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Name: Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 41 min
Total time: 51 min
Yield: Serves approximately six people
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup low sodium chicken broth; 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs; Burger buns (optional, for serving)

Posted on November 28, 2025

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This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tenderness and flavor in a quick and easy way. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe makes mouthwatering BBQ chicken sandwiches, and the leftover pulled chicken can be used in various dishes like tacos, quesadillas, nachos, salads, and even pizza!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to enjoy your BBQ chicken in just 51 minutes.
Flavorful Sauce: The combination of BBQ sauce and spices creates a rich flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
Versatile Uses: Whether for sandwiches or toppings in other meals, this shredded chicken adapts to many dishes.
Family-Friendly: With its mild yet delicious flavor profile, it’s a hit with both adults and kids alike.
Easy Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and hassle when it’s time to clean up.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Instant Pot BBQ Chicken, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Instant Pot
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk or spoon
Forks (for shredding)

Why These Tools Matter

Instant Pot: Provides fast cooking under pressure while locking in flavors and moisture.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.
Whisk or spoon: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly for an even flavor throughout.
Forks: Perfect for shredding the chicken quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

1 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon salt (use ½ teaspoon if using water instead of broth)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (or boneless skinless chicken thighs)
burger buns (if desired, for serving)

How to Make Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine the chicken broth, ½ cup of the BBQ sauce (reserve the remaining BBQ sauce for after cooking), apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in the Instant Pot. Whisk until well combined.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Nestle the chicken into the sauce ensuring it is well coated.

Step 3: Cook Under Pressure

Close the Instant Pot lid and turn the steam release valve to the sealing position. Set the cook time to 16 minutes at high pressure. Remember, this cook time is suitable for both fresh and frozen chicken.

Step 4: Release Pressure Naturally

The Instant Pot will take about 15 minutes to reach pressure before starting the countdown. When cooking ends, allow natural release for 10 minutes without touching anything.

Step 5: Vent Steam Carefully

After waiting for 10 minutes, carefully move the steam release valve to venting. Once all steam escapes and the pin drops down, open the lid cautiously. Ensure that the chicken has reached at least 165° F using an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6: Shred the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken to a clean bowl or cutting board. Let it rest briefly before shredding with two forks or your fingers.

Step 7: Mix with Sauce

Stir some of the liquid from the pot into your shredded chicken along with up to an additional ½ cup of BBQ sauce. Note that you won’t use all of the liquid from cooking. Serve on burger buns with extra BBQ sauce as desired.

How to Serve Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Serving Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is a breeze and offers countless delicious options for enjoying this tender, flavorful dish. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On Burger Buns

Serve the shredded BBQ chicken on soft burger buns for a classic sandwich experience. Add extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw for crunch.

In Tacos

Use warm tortillas to make BBQ chicken tacos. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado for a tasty twist.

As Quesadillas

Fill tortillas with the shredded chicken and cheese, then grill until crispy. Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

Over Nachos

Layer tortilla chips with BBQ chicken, cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing nacho platter.

On Salads

Toss the shredded BBQ chicken on a bed of greens with cherry tomatoes, corn, and ranch dressing for a hearty salad option.

On Pizza

Spread some sauce on pizza dough and top with the BBQ chicken, cheese, and red onions. Bake until golden for a unique pizza night.

How to Perfect Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Perfecting your Instant Pot BBQ Chicken can enhance both flavor and texture. Follow these tips for ideal results every time.

Use Quality Ingredients: Select high-quality chicken breasts or thighs for the best flavor and tenderness in your dish.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences; adding smoked paprika can give an extra kick.
Monitor Cooking Time: Ensure that you don’t overcook the chicken; 16 minutes is perfect but adjust slightly if using larger pieces.
Shred While Warm: Shredding the chicken while it’s still warm makes it easier and helps absorb more flavor from the sauce.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Experiment with Sauces: Try different brands or styles of BBQ sauce to find your favorite combination of flavors that works best for you.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot BBQ Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

Coleslaw – A crunchy side made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy sauce complements the savory flavors of BBQ chicken.
Cornbread – Moist and sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from your sandwiches or plates.
Baked Beans – These hearty beans add a smoky sweetness that pairs well with BBQ chicken’s bold flavors.
Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a satisfying contrast to the spiciness of the barbecue sauce.
Grilled Vegetables – Lightly seasoned grilled veggies add color and nutrients to your plate while balancing out rich flavors.
Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that complements savory dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot BBQ Chicken, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

Skipping the Liquid: Always include enough liquid in the pot. Without it, your chicken may not cook properly or could burn.
Not Shredding Thoroughly: Ensure you shred the chicken well for even flavor distribution. If you don’t, some bites may be too dry while others are too saucy.
Using High-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium broth and BBQ sauce to control the saltiness of your dish. Using regular versions can lead to overly salty chicken.
Overcooking or Undercooking: Always check the internal temperature of your chicken. It should reach at least 165°F for safety. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Allowing natural pressure release helps keep your chicken tender and juicy. Don’t rush this step by manually releasing pressure too soon.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken in a covered dish, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Place shredded chicken in a pan with a splash of broth or sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Instant Pot BBQ Chicken?

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is a quick and easy dish made with tender chicken breasts cooked in flavorful BBQ sauce using an Instant Pot.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes! The cook time remains the same whether you use fresh or frozen chicken, making it convenient for busy days.

How can I customize my Instant Pot BBQ Chicken?

You can customize your dish by adding different spices or using various types of BBQ sauce to suit your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Instant Pot BBQ Chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with burger buns, coleslaw, or a side salad. It’s also great on tacos or nachos!

How do I store leftovers of Instant Pot BBQ Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for sandwiches or as a topping on various dishes, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite sauces and sides!