Effortlessly tender, juicy, and flavorful, this Instant Pot Shredded Chicken is perfect for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.
Have you ever tried making shredded chicken in an Instant Pot? It’s like a little kitchen miracle, haha! That’s how I always feel when I’m using the pressure cooker.
This Instant Pot Shredded Chicken is super easy, incredibly tasty, and can be used in so many different dishes. Imagine tender, juicy chicken that’s perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices like garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. It’s not just any chicken—it’s the kind of chicken that makes your taste buds do the happy dance!
Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal prep maker, or just looking for an easy dinner idea, this recipe is a game-changer. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouth-watering dish in no time flat!
You’ll love that this Instant Pot Shredded Chicken is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor and possibilities.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner, prepping meals for the week, or just exploring new Instant Pot recipes, this chicken is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, grab your Instant Pot, and your favorite spices, and let’s make some scrumptious shredded chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Common Questions About Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! That’s really one of the things I love most about the instant pot.
You don’t necessarily have to thaw things out on the counter or in the microwave. Just increase the cook time a bit, and you’ll have delicious chicken ready in no time.
What Can I Make with Shredded Chicken?
The options for using Instant Pot shredded chicken are almost endless! You can create a big batch of chicken that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Whip up some Mexican chicken for your taco nights or burrito bowls.
Toss it in a BBQ chicken salad for a hearty and healthy meal. If you’re in the mood for something creamy and indulgent, turn it into a delicious buffalo chicken dip.
And let’s not forget classic options like filling for sandwiches or a simple yet delightful chicken breast recipe for a quick dinner.
Is It Better Than Cooking Chicken in a Slow Cooker?
While both the Instant Pot and slow cooker have their advantages, cooking chicken in the Instant Pot can be a game-changer, especially when you’re short on time.
The pressure-cooking chicken method in the Instant Pot not only saves time but also guarantees tender chicken that rivals anything cooked in a slow cooker.
This method is particularly great when you have pounds of chicken to cook and need the best-shredded chicken without spending the whole day in the kitchen.
Storage
Having shredded chicken in the fridge or freezer is one of my absolute favorite things. There are so many things I can do with it later on. YUM!
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure you don’t let it get freezer-burned!
Tips
There are just a few things to remember when you’re using an instant pot. I’ve got a few great tips here to make sure everything goes smoothly.
- Natural Release is Key: Allows the chicken to retain its moisture and tenderness.
- Keep the Juices: Store the chicken in its cooking liquid for extra juiciness.
- Shredding Shortcuts: Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to shred the chicken effortlessly.
- Season Well: Don’t be shy with the seasonings for flavorful chicken.
- Check Internal Temperature: Ensure it reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Ingredients
I like the chicken thighs the most, I think. Either way, though, this chicken is going to be moist and tasty!!
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Chicken stock or water
- Table salt
- Black pepper
- Granulated garlic
- Smoked paprika
How to Make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
The instant pot is going to shine for you tonight! I’ve said it before, it’s like magic in the kitchen. Wave your magic spatula and, POOF! Amazing food is ready!
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the Instant Pot insert.
- Pour in the broth.
- Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika evenly over the top of the chicken.
- Cover, lock the lid, and make sure it is set to the sealing position.
- Cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release for the remaining pressure.
- Remove from the pot and shred before serving.
Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need
If you’re like me, you’ll be munching on this chicken the moment it’s finished cooking. Can’t help it. It’s so tasty!
- Instant Pot or Electric Pressure Cooker
- Measuring Spoons
- Tongs
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer (for shredding)
- Cutting Board (optional, for additional chopping)
- Kitchen Thermometer
What to Serve With Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
There are so many things you can serve this with. The shortlist below only scratches the surface of the possibilities.
- Over a bed of sweet potatoes or rice.
- Inside tacos or burrito bowls with black beans and sour cream.
- On top of a fresh green salad.
- As a filling for chicken sandwiches or sliders.
Why You Should Make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
For me, this recipe is all about meal prep. I like to make a giant batch and freeze it for later use. Whatever you decide, though, you’re going to love it.
- Quick and Easy: Minimal effort with delicious results.
- Versatile: Perfect for a variety of dishes.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Great for preparing meals in advance.
- Family Favorite: Sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Variations and Add-Ins for Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Let me know if you’ve got any other great ideas for ways to cook or serve this amazing shredded chicken. I love hearing all about it!
- BBQ Style: Add BBQ sauce after cooking for a tangy twist.
- Mexican Flair: Mix in homemade taco seasoning for Instant Pot Chicken Tacos.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in some cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- You can add additional seasonings such as minced onions, minced garlic, diced green chilies, BBQ sauce, salsa, or anything else you like – either before or after the cooking process.
If you love this easy chicken recipe, you’re going to love these other easy dinner ideas too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!
Try these pulled chicken recipes
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Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts 2-3 pounds
- 1 cup chicken stock – or water
- 1 tsp table salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Place the chicken in the bottom of the Instant Pot insert.
- Pour in the broth.
- Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika evenly over the top of the chicken.
- Cover, lock the lid, and make sure it is set to the sealing position.
- Cook on manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release for the remaining pressure.
- Remove from the pot and shred before serving.
Equipment
- Instant Pot
Nutrition
Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.
April says
This is the ONLY way I make shredded chicken – it’s quick and easy and comes out perfect every time.
Beth says
Making shredded chicken like this is so much faster and easier than boiling it or cooking it in the slow cooker. This is my new go-to method from now on!
Amanda says
I will never make shredded chicken another way! This is fantastic!
Erin | Dinners, Dishes and Dessert says
This is absolutely fantastic! I’m definitely making this again!
Katerina Petrovska says
Cooking shredded chicken in the Instant Pot was quick and simple. The chicken was tender and easy to shred. Thanks for a great recipe!
Beti Micevska says
It’s a fast, versatile way to prepare chicken for many recipes. Great for saving time and effort! Incredibly delicious!
Beti Micevska says
It’s a fast, versatile way to prepare chicken for many recipes. Great for saving time and effort! I love it!!
Catalina says
The Instant Pot Shredded Chicken was a game-changer for meal prep! It was so tender and flavorful, perfect for salads, tacos, and sandwiches throughout the week.