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Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is one of those recipes that just makes life easier while still delivering on flavor. Imagine tender, juicy chicken that falls apart with a fork, enveloped in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. It’s not just a meal; it’s a centerpiece for family gatherings, a go-to for weeknight dinners, and an absolute must for summertime cookouts. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—perfect for busy days when you want comfort food without the hours of prep and cooking.
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this recipe truly special? First and foremost, it’s a total time-saver. With just 15 minutes of high-pressure cooking and simple ingredients, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that feels like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. It’s also budget-friendly, made with just chicken, barbecue sauce, and a handful of seasonings you probably already have in your pantry.
Families adore it; kids can’t resist the tender chicken smothered in BBQ goodness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it as a pulled chicken sandwich, serve it over rice, or even toss it into a salad for a savory twist.
“This BBQ Chicken is a game changer for weeknight dinners! Easy to make, and my kids devoured it.” – A happy home cook
How to Prepare This Recipe
This recipe is designed for simplicity and flavor. First, gather your ingredients and get ready for an effortless cooking experience. You’ll start by placing the chicken in the Instant Pot, which is the easiest part. Next, you’ll mix your BBQ sauce and spices and pour that delicious mixture over the chicken. After sealing the lid, set your Instant Pot and let it work its magic. In less than half an hour, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to go!
Everything You Need for This Recipe
- 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (Keep in mind, thighs will give you a richer flavor)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (Choose your favorite brand or homemade!)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (Low-sodium is a good option if you’re watching your sodium intake)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Steps
- Begin by placing the chicken in the Instant Pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this flavorful mixture over the chicken.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes.
- After cooking, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, followed by a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Once safely vented, shred the chicken in the pot and mix it into the sauce.
- Serve the flavorful chicken on buns for delicious pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches.
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Best Way to Serve
The charm of Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is in its versatility. For a classic approach, stack it high on toasted sandwich buns, and consider adding coleslaw for a crunchy texture. Want to go the extra mile? Serve it alongside buttery cornbread, crispy potato wedges, or a fresh green salad. If it’s summer, why not pair it with grilled corn on the cob? The combinations are endless, allowing you to make this dish feel fresh every time.
Storage Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store your BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you’re planning to freeze it, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label it!
Expert Advice
Here are a few tips to elevate your Instant Pot BBQ Chicken:
- For added flavor: Marinate your chicken in the BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking.
- Adjust for heat: If you like a little heat, add some cayenne or your favorite hot sauce to the mixture.
- Texture tip: For a firmer bite, use chicken breasts instead of thighs, which shred more easily.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Here are some exciting variations to consider:
- Switch the Sauce: Try using teriyaki or honey garlic sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some bell peppers or onions before sealing for added texture and taste.
- Spice It Up: Add chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky, spicy kick.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make this recipe?
From prep to table, it takes about 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time to 20 minutes for frozen chicken.
Is it safe to reheat multiple times?
It’s safe to reheat, but try to only reheat what you’ll be eating to maintain quality and safety. Always store leftovers promptly in the fridge.
Now that you have all the information you need, why not dive into this easy and delicious recipe? Instant Pot BBQ Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Print
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Tender and juicy chicken enveloped in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, perfect for busy weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken in the Instant Pot.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 15 minutes.
- After cooking, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Shred the chicken in the pot and mix it into the sauce.
- Serve the flavorful chicken on buns for delicious pulled BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Notes
Marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for added flavor. Adjust heat with cayenne or hot sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Instant Pot, BBQ Chicken, easy weeknight dinner
