Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the combination of tender chicken and smoky BBQ sauce. With an Instant Pot, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time, making it a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is flavorful, juicy, and perfect for serving on its own or in sandwiches, tacos, or salads. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
The Upside of Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Using an Instant Pot for BBQ chicken not only speeds up the cooking process but also locks in flavors and moisture. The pressure cooking method allows the spices to penetrate the chicken deeply, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, this method eliminates the need for lengthy marinating time, making it a perfect last-minute dinner option. The result? Juicy, tender chicken slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce, ready to impress.
Shopping List
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided)
Equipment & Tools
- Instant Pot – The star of the show that makes this dish quick and easy.
- Measuring spoons – For precise measurements of spices.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – To stir and mix the ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife – For prepping the chicken and any additional ingredients.
- Serving platter – To present your delicious BBQ chicken.
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will be the foundation of your BBQ chicken, so make sure to mix it well.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub the spice mix evenly over both sides. Ensuring the chicken is well-coated with spices will enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Select the “Sauté” function on your Instant Pot and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add the Liquid
Once the chicken is browned, pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon. This will prevent the “burn” warning and add even more flavor to your dish.
Step 5: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to “Sealing.” Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 10 minutes. The Instant Pot will take a few moments to build pressure before cooking.
Step 6: Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then switch the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid.
Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce
Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks or your hands. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot and pour in ¾ cup of BBQ sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Instant Pot BBQ Chicken on its own, or use it to fill sandwiches, tacos, or salads. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired, and enjoy the incredible flavors!
Adaptations for Special Diets
- Gluten-Free: Ensure you use a gluten-free BBQ sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- Paleo: Substitute the BBQ sauce with a homemade version that uses natural sweeteners and compliant ingredients.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Use a low-carb BBQ sauce to keep the dish suitable for low-carb diets.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the spice mix for an extra kick.
What Could Go Wrong
- Burn Notice: If you don’t deglaze the pot after sautéing the chicken, you might get a burn notice. Always scrape the bottom well after sautéing.
- Overcooked Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Stick to the 10-minute cooking time for perfectly tender chicken.
- Insufficient Liquid: Make sure there is enough liquid in the pot to create steam for pressure cooking. Always use the recommended broth amount.
- Flavors Not Penetrating: Ensure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking for maximum flavor.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is perfect for meal prep and can be frozen. To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reader Q&A
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time to 15 minutes and ensure that the chicken is fully cooked through before shredding.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Whether you prefer sweet, smoky, or spicy, choose one that suits your taste. Just be mindful of the ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can cook the BBQ chicken in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—about 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker or 30-40 minutes on the stovetop, simmering until cooked through.
What can I serve with Instant Pot BBQ Chicken?
This dish pairs well with coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over rice or in a wrap or sandwich for a hearty meal.
Ready to Cook?
With this Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe in hand, you’re all set to create a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort. The combination of spices, tender chicken, and rich BBQ sauce will surely become a staple in your home. Gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts and rub the spice mix evenly over both sides.
- Select the 'Sauté' function on your Instant Pot and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Once the chicken is browned, pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to 'Sealing.' Select 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook' and set the timer for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then switch the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the Instant Pot and pour in ¾ cup of BBQ sauce. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve the Instant Pot BBQ Chicken on its own, or use it to fill sandwiches, tacos, or salads. Drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
Notes
- Use gluten-free BBQ sauce for a gluten-free option.
- To make it paleo, use a homemade BBQ sauce with natural sweeteners.
- Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months.
