Instant pot Shredded chicken recipes
Need tender, juicy shredded chicken in minutes? The Instant Pot makes it effortless no more dry, overcooked meat!
Whether you’re meal-prepping or making tacos, salads, or soups, this easy recipe works with fresh or frozen chicken and is packed with flavor. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for the easiest way to make tender, juicy shredded chicken, the Instant Pot is your best friend! This recipe is perfect for meal prep, quick weeknight dinners, or adding protein to your favorite dishes.
Quick & Easy – Cooks in under 30 minutes!
Juicy & Flavorful – Perfectly tender every time.
Versatile – Use it in tacos, salads, soups, and more.
Great for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge or freezer.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken (breasts or thighs, fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chicken broth or water (for moisture)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
- Optional add-ins: Lemon juice, bay leaf, or fresh herbs for extra flavor
Equipment
- Instant Pot (3qt, 6qt, or 8qt)
- Trivet or steamer basket (to prevent sticking)
- Tongs (for easy handling)
- Forks or a mixer (for shredding)
How to Make Instant Pot Shredded Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
- Pour 1 cup of broth or water into the Instant Pot.
- Place the trivet inside to elevate the chicken and prevent burning.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the chicken.
- If time allows, let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Set the Instant Pot to HIGH pressure and cook according to the following times:
Chicken Breast Cooking Times
- Fresh Boneless, Skinless Breasts: 8–10 minutes
- Frozen Boneless, Skinless Breasts: 12–15 minutes
- Bone-In Chicken Breasts: 12–14 minutes
Chicken Thigh Cooking Times
- Fresh Boneless, Skinless Thighs: 10–12 minutes
- Frozen Boneless, Skinless Thighs: 15 minutes
- Bone-In Chicken Thighs: 15–17 minutes
Step 4: Release the Pressure
- For Juicier Chicken: Let the Instant Pot do a natural release for 5-10 minutes before opening.
- For Faster Cooking: Carefully use the quick release to let out pressure immediately.
How to Shred the Chicken
Before shredding chicken you must cook it using the below instructions.
Using Forks
- Place the cooked chicken on a cutting board and pull it apart using two forks.
Using a Hand Mixer
- Place chicken in a large bowl and mix on low speed for 30 seconds until shredded.
Using a Stand Mixer
- Use the paddle attachment and mix on low for 15-20 seconds to shred the chicken effortlessly.
Common Issues & Fixes
Why Is My Chicken Dry?
Overcooked? Reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes next time.
Not Enough Liquid? Always use at least 1 cup of broth or water.
Why Does My Instant Pot Say ‘Burn’?
Not Enough Liquid? Add at least 1 cup of broth before cooking.
Food Touching the Bottom? Always place chicken on a trivet to avoid direct contact with the pot.
What If the Chicken Isn’t Fully Cooked?
Return to the Instant Pot and cook for 2 more minutes on HIGH pressure.
How to Store & Reheat Shredded Chicken
Refrigeration
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Store in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Add a little broth to keep it moist.
- Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts with a splash of broth.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat with a little broth until warmed through.
How to Use Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Easy Meal Ideas
Tacos: Mix with salsa and taco seasoning.
Salads: Add to a Caesar or Cobb salad.
Sandwiches: Use in BBQ or buffalo chicken sandwiches.
Pasta: Stir into alfredo or pesto pasta.
Soups: Add to chicken noodle soup or tortilla soup.
Recipe Variations & Seasoning Ideas
Mexican-Style Shredded Chicken
Add cumin, chili powder, and lime juice for a delicious taco filling.
Italian-Style Shredded Chicken
Use Italian seasoning and balsamic vinegar for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken
Toss shredded chicken in buffalo sauce and melted butter for extra heat.
FAQs
Can I Cook Frozen Chicken in the Instant Pot?
Yes! Just add 3-5 extra minutes of cook time.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and have more flavor.
Do I Need to Brown the Chicken First?
Not necessary, but searing the chicken before pressure cooking adds extra flavor.
Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup broth or water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over the chicken.
- Cook the Chicken:Fresh boneless, skinless breasts: 8–10 minutes on HIGH pressureFrozen boneless, skinless breasts: 12–15 minutes on HIGH pressureBone-in chicken breasts: 12–14 minutes on HIGH pressureFresh boneless thighs: 10–12 minutes on HIGH pressureFrozen boneless thighs: 15 minutes on HIGH pressureBone-in thighs: 15–17 minutes on HIGH pressure
- Release Pressure: Let the Instant Pot naturally release for 5-10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Shred the Chicken: Use forks, a hand mixer, or a stand mixer to shred the chicken.
- Serve & Store: Use immediately or store for later (fridge: 4 days, freezer: 3 months).
Notes
- For juicier chicken, always use natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes.
- Add extra seasonings like cumin, Italian seasoning, or buffalo sauce for different flavors.
- Great for meal prep – freeze in portions for easy future meals!
