If you’re looking for the easiest and Best Pulled BBQ Shredded Chicken Recipe, you’ve come to the right place! The mouth-watering flavor and tender texture of this dish are sure to impress and leave you craving for more. Plus, with the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have this dish ready to serve in no time. Give it a try and see for yourself why it’s the best-pulled BBQ shredded chicken recipe around!
If you struggle to find the time to cook from scratch, you’re not alone. Luckily, there’s a solution that will allow you to enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. By using premade slow cooker chicken and combining it with your favorite BBQ sauce, you can have a delicious and quick dinner in no time. Pulled BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches are a hit even with the pickiest eaters!
Jump to:
BBQ SHREDDED CHICKEN IN AN INSTANT POT
Steps to making this dump and go shredded BBQ chicken using quick Instant Pot method will be very similar to the slow cooking method. The main difference is the cooking time. It is mainly a matter of personal preference and equipment you have on hand. Results will be almost identical in the end.
- First, you’ll need to gather all of you ingredients. Today we will be combining boneless chicken breast with roasted garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt & pepper.
- Then, you will need to add your favorite BBQ Sauce. I personally LOVE this one from Trader Joe’s.
- Combine everything together.
- For boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cook in the Instant Pot on high pressure for 15 minutes if using 2 lbs of chicken. Then do a quick release, making sure the pressure completely subsided and the lid is easy to open. Do not attempt to force open and give it a little more time. When I use all 3 packets (approx. 3 lbs) of Costco’s Organic Chicken Breasts, I set the time to 17 minutes. Be sure to check the internal temperature that it has reached 165 degrees F. Let it cool down and shred with stand mixer, hand mixer, or with two forks.
- I love that My Slow Cooker and Instant Pot is a 2-in-1 and highly recommend it!
Can Shredded BBQ Chicken Be Frozen
Yes. Absolutely! You can make this recipe in a batch and store it in freezer safe containers or bags. Ensure that it’s completely cooled down before storing. It should last up to 2 months in the freezer. You can also keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
How Much Shredded BBQ Chicken To Serve Per Person
One of the most important things to consider is how much chicken to serve per person. The answer to this question can vary depending on a few factors. The size of your portions, the number of sides you’re serving, and the appetites of your guests. Whether you’re serving it as sliders on Sweet Hawaiian Rolls or on a regular size hamburger bun.
A good rule of thumb is to plan for about ⅓ (.25) pound of shredded chicken per person. This will give your guests a generous portion without leaving too much leftover chicken. If BBQ shredded chicken sandwiches are the main dish and no other meats are offered, plan for larger portion sizes.
If you’re serving a group of athletes or people with larger appetites, plan for a larger portion size. Conversely, if you’re serving a group of children or people with smaller appetites, plan for a smaller portion size.
When it comes to serving the chicken, it’s important to keep it warm and moist. Keep the chicken covered in a slow cooker or warm oven until ready to use. Offer complementary sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob.
What Goes Well With Shredded BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Baked beans
- Cornbread
- Potato salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Homemade fries
- Sweet potato fries
Best Pulled BBQ Shredded Chicken Recipe (Instant Pot)
Equipment
Ingredients
- 3 lbs of boneless chicken breasts.
- 2.5 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce.
- 1 teaspoon roasted garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt.
- ½ teaspoon pepper.
- Optional toppings: coleslaw (pickles, or red pickled onions.)
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a 6 qt pressure cooker.
- Mix everything together.
- Cook on high for 17 minutes.
- Press the pressure release button and allow for pressure to release and the lid is easy to open. (Approx. 8-10 minutes)
- Confirm the chicken is tender and the temperature has reached safe 165 degrees F before shredding.
- Place the chicken in a mixing bowl and use a hand mixer or two forks to shred it.
- Put everything back into the Instant Pot and mix well together.
- Serve as-is on a brioche or sweet bun or add toppings.
Notes
NOTES:
- Use a good BBQ Sauce! My absolute favorite is: Trader Joe’s Organic Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce
- Be sure to not overcook the chicken and check that internal temperature has reached 165 degrees F as soon as you open the lid. Use a reliable thermometer.
- Once the chicken is completely cooled down, you can store it in a fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer safe container for up to 2 months.
Did you make this Best Pulled BBQ Shredded Chicken Recipe (Instant Pot)? If so, be sure to share your feedback and give it a rating 🙂