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Homemade Instant Pot BBQ Chicken recipe photo

Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

This Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is SO EASY! Juicy chicken slathered in smoky BBQ sauce, perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or salads.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Spice Mix:
  • 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
For the Chicken:
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce divided

Equipment

  • Instant Pot
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Serving platter

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Once the chicken is browned, pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.